Our speaker at the library this month will be Nate Cushman. This event will be in person only at SVGS Library. Everyone is welcome to attend this free presentation.
Nate’s topic: Tools and Strategies for Property Research
Nate’s Bio:
Nate Cushman has worked as a Librarian with Sno-Isle Libraries for 30 years. His love for libraries began at an early age due to being a military brat and moving every 2 years. Being a shy kid, (at least until basketball season rolled around), libraries became his refuge whenever he arrived in a new town. Over his career, genealogical research has evolved from a professional requirement to a personal passion.
There will be a short break with refreshments after the presentation followed by our monthly business meeting.
The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) that meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month is now hybrid!
If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly Zoom invitations.
DNA Special Interest Group
Also join us at the SVGS library on the third Thursday of the month from 1-3pmfor our DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives. We will discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.
All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.
If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please send an email info@stillygen.org
Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.
NEW – Using AI to Write Your Family History
Starting Thursday, March 26th
This group will meet the on the 4th Thursday of every month at 1 pm at the SVGS Library to discuss and assist in writing your family history using AI resources. Various AI platforms, tools and new developments using AI will be introduced.
Bring your questions, laptop and narratives for help or feedback.
NEW – American Ancestors Webinar Day
Starting Saturday, March 28th
Join us on the last Saturday of the month at the SVGS library at 11am to watch an American Ancestors webinar.
This month:
A Perfect Frenzy: A Royal Governor, His Black Allies, and the Crisis That Spurred the American Revolution” with Andrew Lawler
As the American Revolution broke out in New England in the spring of 1775, dramatic events unfolded in Virginia that proved every bit as decisive as the battles of Lexington and Concord and Bunker Hill in uniting the colonies against Britain. A Perfect Frenzy chronicles these stunning and widely overlooked events for the first time.
Ancestry Revisit – New, Updated and Upcoming Features
Tuesday, March 10th
1:00 pm
SVGS Library
6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA
Our speaker at the library this month will be SVGS society member, Sue McNeil. This event will be in person only. Everyone is welcome to attend this free presentation.
Sue’s topic: Ancestry Revisit-New, Updated and Upcoming Features
There have been many small and large additions and changes to Ancestry over the past year and many more coming. Have you looked at Ancestry lately?
Sue’s Bio:
Sue has been a member of the Stillaguamish Valley Genealogical Society for many years and a family history addict. Her research in the United States has focused on the deep south, Washington, Michigan and just starting New England, Internationally, she has focused on Canada, Sweden and Germany. Autosomal and Y DNA have been a challenging but fun addition!
There will be a short break with refreshments after the presentation followed by our monthly business meeting.
Monthly Business Newsletter Meeting & Presentation
What’s Been Done: Using Someone Else’s Genealogy Research
Tuesday, February 10th
1:00 pm
SVGS Library
6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA
This month we will be watching a pre-recorded webinar at the SVGS Library presented by Thomas MacEntee.
Thomas’s topic: What’s Been Done: Using Someone Else’s Research
Many of us as genealogists have inherited research from a relative and we are not always sure whether the content is reliable. What’s the best way to incorporate the research of others into your own research without leading to dead ends, roadblocks and unnecessary detours? Here is a road map on the best way to handle “outside research” and benefit from it as you combine the content with your own research.
Bio:
Thomas MacEntee is a Baby Boomer guy with a love of punk rock music but also art history who somehow “fell” into the technology industry almost 40 years ago and then left a lucrative IT career to pursue his love of family history and genealogy. Technology and historical research are opposites, but “tech people” like Thomas are needed to guide today’s genealogists through the maze of options so they can deploy the best apps and devices to break down research brick walls. Thomas MacEntee: author, educator, advocate, entrepreneur, and that “genealogy guy” who helps you accomplish your family history goals.
There will be a short break with refreshments after the presentation followed by our monthly business meeting.
DIG – DNA Special Interest Group
Also join us at the SVGS library on the third Thursday of the month from 1-3pmfor our DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.
All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.
If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please sen an email info@stillygen.org
Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.
New England Interest Group
The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) that meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month is now hybrid!
If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly Zoom invitations.
Our speaker at the library this month will be SVGS society member, Teresa Townsell. This event will be in person only. Everyone is welcome to attend this free presentation.
Teresa’s topic: Writing A Family History Book Using A.I.
Have you ever wanted to use A.I. in your genealogy work? Is it finally time to turn your family research into a book your relatives can enjoy? Are you waiting until your research feels “finished” — or unsure where to begin with A.I.? This process meets you where you are.
All you need is an Ancestry.com account and basic WORD skills (or the Apple equivalent).
Teresa will teach you a simple, step-by-step process to write your family history book using ChatGBT, an A.I. tool that’s easier, faster, and a lot more fun than you might imagine!
You will leave with:
A clear understanding of how to collaborate with A.I. for writing and organizing your history.
A structure and outline you can use as a template for your own family history book.
Confidence to start writing and finally share your story as soon as you get home!
There will be a short break with refreshments after the presentation followed by our monthly business meeting.
DIG – DNA Special Interest Group
Also join us at the SVGS library on the third Thursday of the month from 1-3pmfor our DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.
All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.
If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please sen an email info@stillygen.org
Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.
New England Interest Group
The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) that meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month is now hybrid!
If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly Zoom invitations.
Our speaker at the library this month will be SVGS society member, Kathie Webber. This event will be in person only. Everyone is welcome to attend this free presentation
Kathie’s topic: Creating A Virtual Cemetery One Kathie’s favorite things about studying her family history has been learning where her ancestors have been buried. Twenty years ago she discovered an online tool called findagrave.com. This website and the accompanying app have enabled her to organize and expand her cemetery research. She will share with everyone the many things she has taken advantage of using Find a Grave, as well as other options that are available.
Bio:
I’ve been doing genealogy for over 40 years. I’ve researched in Washington State, Massachusetts, California, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Ireland. My favorite notable ways to research include visiting cemeteries, family history centers, online research, Facebook groups, and travel.
There will be a short break with refreshments after the presentation followed by our monthly business meeting.
DIG – DNA Special Interest Group
Also join us at the SVGS library on the third Thursday of the month from 1-3pmfor our DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.
All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.
If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please sen an email info@stillygen.org
Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.
New England Interest Group
The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) that meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month is now hybrid!
If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly Zoom invitations.
Overview of Lineage Societies: An Introduction to Heritage and Membership
Tuesday, October 14th
1:00 pm
SVGS Library
6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA
Our speaker at the library this month will be SVGS society member, LeAnne Koliha. This event will be in person only. Everyone is welcome to attend this free presentation.
Our business meeting will follow the presentation at 2 PM.
LeAnne’s topic: Overview of Lineage Societies: An Introduction to Heritage and Membership
Lineage societies are organizations whose membership is based on proving descent from a particular ancestor or group connected by bloodline, historical event, or notable accomplishment. These societies, often rooted in historical preservation and civic engagement, function as both social organizations and custodians of heritage. Members typically trace their lineage through careful genealogical research, sometimes requiring documentation that connects them to figures from wars, colonial settlements, or other significant moments in history. Examples include the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Mayflower Society, and the Sons of Confederate Veterans. Through meetings, commemorations, and educational outreach, lineage societies foster a sense of identity and continuity, helping members honor their ancestors while promoting historical awareness and community service in the present day.
Bio:
LeAnne has been an active member of SVGS since 2022. She serves as the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) Washington State Committee Chair for E Pluribus Unum, focusing on uncovering and honoring forgotten patriots, including African Americans, Native Americans, and women. As a member of the DAR State Review team, she assists in reviewing applications and supplementals before their submission to the National level. LeAnne is also the secretary of the Lady Stirling Chapter in Bothell. As a member of the National Society of American Colonists (NSDAC), she serves as chapter registrar for the Pilchuck chapter, where she guides potential members through the application process and supports their research by helping locate necessary documentation.
DIG – DNA Special Interest Group
Also join us at the SVGS library on the third Thursday of the month from 1-3pmfor our DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.
All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.
If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please sen an email info@stillygen.org
Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.
New England Interest Group
The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) that meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month is now hybrid!
If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly Zoom invitations.
The Stillaguamish Valley Genealogical Society would like to help you preserve your family history.
Bring your family documents, old photos, negatives, slides, tapes, and home movies to the SVGS Library to get them digitized absolutely FREE!
Bring your own USB drive for documents, photos, negatives and slides and a CD for tapes and movies. (There will be thumb drives and CDs available for purchase at the library.)
We will be open all month long on Tuesday, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10am to 4 pm.
It takes longer to digitize tapes and movies, so we request an appointment to make sure the equipment is available when you arrive. Please email info@stillygen.org Attention: LeAnne.
The SVGS Library is located at 6111 188th PL NE, Arlington. East of the airport and north of the Boys & Girls Club. Look for the Genealogy Library signs.
Hint: Digital copies of family memories make thoughtful gifts for the holidays!
For more information visit our website stillygen.org
The WSGS Board of Directors awarded Supportive Grants to four local societies. Diane Huckabay, WSGS Education Chair, announced the awards at the Annual Meeting on August 21, 2025.
The grants were awarded to:
Clark County Genealogical Society — Develop and launch a membership initiative. CCGS has seen a 20 percent decline in membership since 2020. Additionally, the COVID 19 pandemic and relocation greatly reduced foot traffic at their research library. Despite this, their volunteers logged more than 6,100 hours in 2024, managing operations and opening the CCGS Library on about 200 days to patrons.
The Supportive Grant will help CCGS:
• Update and print a new brochure and other materials with appealing layouts and designs.
• Extend the brochure’s content across platforms, ensuring the monthly newsletter, the weekly email update, their website, Facebook, and YouTube deliver cohesive messaging.
• Host an Open House or a free beginning genealogy class to attract attention to CCGS, inviting the public to meet their dedicated volunteers and explore the Library.
Lower Columbia Genealogical Society — Provide speakers for on-line meetings. This small society usually has about 10 speakers per year for their 18 – 25 members. Because of their location (Southwest Washington), society cost-cutting and the limited number of members who have already spoken, they often need to reach out to outside speakers. With the rise in speaker fee and loss of society income, the Supportive Grant will help them obtain quality speakers with an eye to increasing membership as well as educating their members.
North Beach Genealogical Society — Purchase a copy of “The Archaeology of Minard: A case study of a late-prehistoric Northwest Coast Procurement system” by Tom E Roll. This doctoral thesis was published in 1974 and refers to archaeological work conducted at the Minard Site, located near Ocean Shores, beginning in 1968. The copy at the Ocean Shores Public Library is falling apart and is kept in the backroom. Owning this book will preserve the local history and allow NBGS to share it with the community.
Stillaguamish Valley Genealogical Society — Offset the cost of three 3’x6’ vinyl banners. These banners are an important communication tool for the society.
Оne banner will be used to identify their booth at community events. The eye-catching banner will draw attention to SVGS and encourage community interaction. The other two banners will mark their building’s location, which is set back from the road. The banners will make it easier for people to find the Library.
For more information about the Supportive Grants, click here.
Monthly Meeting & Presentation – Jesse’s Daughter and the Daughters of the American Revolution
Tuesday, September 9th
1:00 pm
SVGS Library
6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA
You are invited to this free presentation at the SVGS library. Everyone is welcome!
Susan Maza will be our guest speaker.
Susan’s topic: Jesse’s Daughter and the Daughters of the American Revolution
Step back in time into Colonial America with a costumed character who can tell stories of the United States in its infancy.
We live in a country that many from around the world desire to experience. Our ancestors sacrificed much to make our country what it is today. American history is rich in events that sculpted our destiny.
How Did We Finance the Revolutionary War Without a Government?
Women & Their Role in the Revolutionary War
What Was Life Like at the Time of the Revolution?
Bio: Susan Maza is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Her desire to educate herself has led to offering her program to those in the educational field.
There will be a short break with refreshments. The monthly meeting will follow at 2pm.
New England Interest Group – 1st Tuesday of the Month
The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month at 10am. This is a hybrid group. You may attend in person at our library or join via Zoom.
If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly
Zoom invitations.
DIG – DNA Special Interest Group – 3rd Thursday of the Month
Also join us at the SVGS library from 1-3pm on the 3rd Thursday of the month for the DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.
All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.
If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please send an email info@stillygen.org
Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.
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