Family History Day at the California State Archives

NEW BLOG AND NEW EMAIL

2011-02-12T22:21:00.000-08:00

NEWS FLASH!

The blog for Family History Day 2011
has moved to
http://fhdnews.blogspot.com

Family History Day 2011
will be
Saturday, October 15, 2011

Email Alert!

The new email address for Family History Day is

fhdmailbox@gmail.com

Send any comments or questions to the new email address.

See you at the new location!

FAMILY HISTORY DAY 2010, Epilogue

2010-10-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

"Aerial" View

What a wonderfully fun day it was at Family History Day 2010 at the California State Archives. A record attendance of over 450 family history researchers from beginners to experienced came together to partake of all things genealogical.

The speakers and exhibitors were informative on a host of topices. Class time flew by and we wanted more!

Period Attire Galore

The day was even more festive with so many people wearing period clothing...and the variety of the attire was fantastic They really set the scene for the bygone days of our ancestors.

Dancing

Each tour of the Archives was at capacity. Archivists gave a rare behind-the-scenes look at document storage at the State Archives.

The historic ballroom dance troupe and music ensemble at lunchtime were amazing - if the Blogger didn't have two left feet, she would have kicked up her heels too! Did you join in?

BATHING BEAUTY AT FAMILY HISTORY DAY

2010-10-07T22:28:00.001-07:00

Makes Splash Without Water

Sunbathing in the 1890s

Women's beachwear has come a long way, baby. Needless to say, Katherine Weedman-Cox of Cox Black and White Lab, Inc. (see exhibitor profile) would probably not wear any of the bathing suits of today at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

Katherine, pictured left, will be wearing this 1890s era swimsuit with black tights and black shoes at Family History Day. The costume was handmade by Arlene Wright at Capital Costumes. Katherine says it's very comfortable.

Be sure to stop by the Cox Black and White Lab, Inc. exhibit and ask Katherine to describe her beach attire.

The Blogger couldn't wait and searched Google Books for 19th Century bathing suits. Among the several results -- an 1899 periodical, The Puritan (see endnote), with a story titled "The Well-Dressed Woman", sub-part "The Bathing Suit". Fascinating social history! The unidentified author provided commentary about modesty and guidelines for fabric choice (mohair, alpaca, flannel); blouse, skirt and sleeve style; and considerations for wearing the bathing "constume" while "dabbling in the edge of the surf or for long-distance swims". An aside -- while still on the digitized book screen, enter 730 in the page number box, press Enter and look for a family history ad!

Source: The Puritan, Volume VI. June to September 1899. New York Frank A. Munsey, Publisher. 111 Fifth Avenue. 1899. Digitized by Google Books, Original from University of Michigan. Article: The Well-Dressed Woman – The Bathing Suit”, page 289-297.

CLASS SCHEDULE FOR FAMILY HISTORY DAY

2010-10-07T22:28:00.000-07:00

The State Archives has posted the

CLASS SCHEDULE AND ROOM LOCATIONS

for Family History Day.

Make your selections to plan your day.

Be sure to allow time to visit with the exhibitors and browse in the Root Cellar - Sacramento Genealogical Library also!

UPDATED - SACRAMENTO REGIONAL FAMILY HISTORY CENTER

2010-10-02T16:36:00.000-07:00

It is a pleasure to introduce the Sacramento Regional Family History Center as an exhibitor at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

The wonderful world of genealogy is waiting for you at the Sacramento Regional Family History Center. The Center contains over 20,000 books. The collection is composed of family histories, dictionaries, how-to-do-books, major American and foreign reference materials, U.S. federal census indexes, local histories, printed parish and town records, and other typical archival records. The Center has free online access to Ancestry.com, Family Link, Footnote, Genline, Godfrey Library, Heritage Quest and World Vital Records. Machines are available for use to read the mircrofilm you found on the shelf or ordered from the Family History Library.

Volunteer staff are ready to help direct you to the extensive resources held there. In addition to the library's collections, free genealogical classes and research assistance is available to the public. You can register for the claases at the Center or call 487-2090. Here is a summary:

Family history research classes are conducted on Wednesday evenings 7:00pm-8:00pm.
Family research classes are also conducted on Wednesday afternoons 2:00pm-4:00pm.
The Center conducts a “Writers Workshop” at 5:00 pm on the 2nd Wednesday of each month.
The Sacramento German Genealogical Society provides research assistance with tracing German ancestors every Thursday from 1:00pm-5:00pm in the Center.
Online Research Classes: The Family History Library in Salt Lake City, Utah has classes available online. These classes contain videos, lessons and class outlines in PDF format. Learn the basic methods and key resources to start your family history.

SAVE THE DATE!

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Sacramento Regional Family History Seminar
Family: Eternal Keepsakes

8:30 am-4:00

Updated: Check our website for the flyer

Stop by our exhibit at Family History Day and let us tell you more about the genealogical resources available at the Sacramento Regional Family History Center and the upcoming seminar.

Sacramento Regional Family History Center

2745 Eastern Avenue

Sacramento, CA

Phone: (916) 487-2090

Hours:

Tuesday - - - -10am-9:30pm

Wednesday - -10am-4:30pm

Thursday- - - -10am-9:30pm

Friday - - - - -10am-7:00pm

YOLO COUNTY ARCHIVES, Exhibitor at Family History Day

2010-10-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

Old Hall of Records, Woodland, California

It is a pleasure to introduce the Yolo County Archives as an exhibitor at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

The Yolo County Archives is the repository for government and private records that document the Yolo County’s history from its creation in 1850 to the present. Included in the collection are the official records of the Board of Supervisors, court cases, probates, property assessments and deeds, voter registration, reclamation districts, and schools, as well as over 1,000 maps and blueprints. Private records include photographs, church, cemetery and organization records, newspapers, oral histories and corporate records.

Yolo County is very fortunate in that many of its early records have been preserved. In addition, the county has made a commitment to continue the collection of historical records within the Archives. This offers the researcher access to one of the most complete collections of county records in California.

Many records in our collection will aid your genealogy research. Examples include:

Over 30,000 obituaries filed in alphabetical order
Naturalizations
Alphabetical index to Yolo County census records
Church and cemetery records
Probate and court records (with indexes)
WWI scrapbooks

The Archives is open to researchers by appointment on Tuesdays from 9-1 and Thursday 12-4. Please call 530-666-8010 or email archives@yolocounty.org for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Please stop by our exhibit at Family History day and let us help you find your Yolo County roots!

PRISCILLA ALDEN CHAPTER, NATIONAL SOCIETY OF COLONIAL DAMES XVII CENTURY, Exhibitor at Family History Day

2010-09-26T09:45:00.000-07:00

It is a pleasure to introduce the Priscilla Alden Chapter of the National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century as an exhibitor at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

The Priscilla Alden Chapter of the Colonial Dames XVII Century was organized in Sacramento in October 1964 and chartered in 1965. The organization is comprised of 11,500 members nationwide who share a common interest in American history, love of and respect for our nation, and a desire to work together in harmonious fellowship to achieve the important goals of the Society.

The Object of the National Society is to:

Aid in the preservation of the records and of the historic sites of our count
Foster interest in historical colonial research
Aid in the education of the youth of our country
Commemorate the noble and heroic deeds of our ancestors, and to maintain zealously those high principles of virtue, courage and patriotism which led to the independence of the Colonies and the foundation and establishment of the United States of America
Maintain a Library of Heraldry and preserve the lineage and Coats of Arms of our Armorial ancestors
Develop a library specializing in seventeenth century American colonial data

To achieve our goals as stated in the Object of the Society, we

Identify and mark historic sites (especially those with Colonial period import)
Acquire books, microfiche readers and funds for our library
Document our ancestors and the roles they played in the development of our great Nation
Maintain a museum in our National Headquarters building
Maintain the grave site of Pocahontas "Lady Rebecca Rolfe" in Gravesend, England and have a scholarship in her honor for those of Native American descent interested in pursuing the medical professions
Volunteer hours at VA Hospitals and provide clothing and household goods to assist our veterans and help them rebuild civilian lives

Membership Eligibility:
Any woman of good moral character, eighteen years of age or over, is eligible for membership, provided she has been invited by the Society and is the lineal descendant of an ancestor who lived and served prior to 1701 in one of the Original Colonies in the geographical area of the present United States of America. Membership is in the National Society but members join through Chapters.

We are happy to be part of Family History Day. Please stop by our exhibit and tell us about your colonial roots. We can share more information about our Chapter’s activities and membership.

OPEN HOUSE AT THE CALIFORNIA STATE ARCHIVES

2010-09-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

Archives Open House

Help kick–off California Archives Month

Saturday, October 2, 2010, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

California State Archives

1020 O Street

Sacramento, CA 95814

Information: (916) 653–7715

Join us on October 2, 2010 for a chance to explore the California State Archives and learn about our extensive collection of documents and artifacts that allow us to understand the history of California. A diverse group of local archival organizations and repositories will host display tables that highlight prominent artifacts, photographs, and documents from their collections. This annual event is a great opportunity for the public to learn about archives, the preservation of historical records, and to celebrate Archives Month in California.

Event Activities

•Talk to archivists from various local repositories and see displays of rarely–seen documents and artifacts.

•View a recently installed exhibit.

•Take a tour of the State Archives.

Visitors can take Light Rail to the Archives Plaza stop. Or if you drive, park free in the parking lot located across the street from the Archives entrance. Parking is available on a first come first served basis.

Visit California State Archives for more information about the Open House and other activities planned for California Archives Month.

PERIOD ATTIRE AT FAMILY HISTORY DAY

2010-09-23T21:20:00.000-07:00

Several people will be wearing their period garb at Family History Day. Below are just a couple beautiful examples of what you will see throughout the day. Say hello when you see them and learn about the clothing our ancestors wore in that era.

Suzanne Latimer in her 1906-era dress

Suzanne Latimer (left) is gorgeous in her 1906 period dress, parasol and hat - all of which she made. (The transitional lenses are a more recent vintage.) She wore the dress at the California Admission Day celebration at the State Capitol. Suzanne is a docent at the California State Capitol, and a member of Root Cellar - Sacramento Genealogical Society and the Family History Day Publicity Committee.

Dian Price in her 1896 tea gown.

Dian Price (left) is stunning in her 1896 tea gown. Dian is a long-time fan of period clothing and sews her own to wear at special events. She is a member of Root Cellar-Sacramento Genealogical Society and the Daughters of Utah Pioneers, and the Chairperson for the Family History Day Period Costume Wearers Committee.

LIBRARY DISPLAYS FEATURE FAMILY HISTORY DAY

2010-09-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

Family History Month and Family History Day at the California State Archives is being celebrated at two Sacramento Public Library branch locations during September.

Patrons at these libraries can get a feel of the personal journey that family history research truly is. The display cases are adorned with the various types of records and memorabilia that depict the social and cultural history of one's ancestors. "Tools of the trade" are also shown, such as reference books for locating record sources and actual family trees labeled with "found" ancestors, family groups sheets and pedigree charts. Please stop by and take a look at these libraries:

Arden-Dimick Public Library                   Sylvan Oaks Library
891Watt Avenue at Northrop                  6700 Auburn Blvd/VanMaren
Sacramento                                             Citrus Heights

Info: 264-2700

Tools of the Genealogy Trade
Arden-Dimick Library

Thank you to the display team: (l-r) Diane Maltase, Rosalie Gladden,
Sylvia Walsh and Suzanne Latimer, members of Root Cellar-Sacramento Genealogical Society

Finding and enjoying our social and cultural history through our ancestors
Sylvan Oaks Library

Mapping your ancestors in the family tree
Arden-Dimick Library

FAQs ABOUT FAMILY HISTORY DAY

2010-09-20T23:33:00.000-07:00

Frequently Asked Questions

About Family History Day 2010

at the California State Archives

1. When and where is this event, and what time will it start?

Family History Day is on Saturday, October 9, 2010 at the California State Archives, 1020 “O” Street, 4th floor (corner of 10th and “O”, Streets), Sacramento, CA. Event hours are 8:30a.m. to 4:00p.m.

2. Is parking available?

Yes. Limited free parking is available in the lot across (north of) from the State Archives building. Enter from 10th Street via the alley. The lot opens at 7a.m and closes for entry at 5p.m.
Limited 10-hour metered street parking (quarters only, no credit cards) is located around Roosevelt Park one block west of the State Archives building. The park is located at 1602 9th Street (between 9th and 10th and P and Q Streets).
Parking garages located on 10th Street (between O and P Streets) and on 11th Street (between O and P Streets) are closed on Saturdays.
Attendees are encouraged to use Light Rail, exit at Archives Plaza, or to carpool.

3. Is there an eatery nearby? Can I bring my lunch?

Yes. La Bou Bakery and Café is located at 1100 “O” Street (corner 11th and “O” Streets), one block east of the State Archives building. The Café will be open from 8:00a.m. - 2:00p.m. serving reasonably-priced bakery items, sandwiches, soups, salads, coffee, and other beverages. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. This will be the 4th year that La Bou Bakery and Café has agreed to be open for Family History Day as it is typically closed on week-ends. The sponsors of Family History Day greatly appreciate this “partnership” and encourage attendees to patronize the Café.
Attendees may inquire at the Reception Desk for other places to eat in the area.
Attendees who bring their lunch can eat it in Archives building lobby or Secretary of State Courtyard.

4. What are the “House Rules” at the State Archives?

No food/beverage will be allowed on 3rd and 4th floors of States Archives or in the California Museum (exhibit area). Food and beverage is permitted in Archives building lobby and Secretary of State Courtyard.
Lockers are available on a first-come first-serve basis on the 4th floor of the State Archives. A key can be obtained at the 4th floor Reception Desk.

5. Where do I sign up for a mini-tour of the State Archives?

A sign-up list will be created for attendees who want to take the mini-tour available throughout the day. Please sign-up at the 4th floor reception desk.

6. Will the wall maps be up again to show where visitors come from?

Yes. The map of the United States of America and the world will be hanging next to the lockers behind the 4th floor reception desk. Ask at the reception desk for the color-coded stickers attendees can use to show their birth place, their parent’s birthplace and their grandparent’s birthplace.

7. Will the California Museum and the Gift Shop be open on Family History Day?

Yes. They will be open from 10:00a.m. – 5:00p.m. Check at the 4th floor reception desk for more information.

If we haven't answered your question, please email it to familyhistoryday2010@gmail.com and the answer will be posted here.

SPEAKER AND CLASS LIST AT FAMILY HISTORY DAY 2010

2010-09-19T10:02:00.000-07:00

The California State Archives, Root Cellar - Sacramento Genealogical Society and the Genealogical and Historical Council of Sacramento Valley extend a warm welcome to you at Family History Day 2010. The archivists and members of these organizations are long-time and enthusiastic supporters of this event.

After nearly a year of planning, be prepared to be immersed in family history the moment you enter the California State Archives building. Docents in period clothing will greet you and from 11:30am to 12:45pm (New Time) you can kick up your heels with a 19th century waltz or Virginia Reel in the “ballroom”, nowadays called the lobby. Awaiting you on the 4th floor will be over 20 genealogical classes and several tours and as many exhibitors ready with informative materials. So, enjoy a day of learning and most of all, have fun!

The Speaker and Class List for Family History Day is now available. The list can also be found on the right side of this screen under Important Links. The class schedule and room assignments will be posted on the blog soon.

SOUND OFF! RESULTS ARE IN

2010-09-18T22:00:00.001-07:00

The first responses are in for
Sound Off!

"What Family History Day means to me"

FHD is a wonderful opportunity to touch our past, our history. I'm looking forward to hearing the speakers and finding out what resources are available. Genealogy is a fun way to learn not only where I came from, but also to find ways to locate lost relatives. --Mort Rumberg

The Family History Day is always very informative and enjoyable. Our GAS Association will be represented and we hope to meet some new GAS members while we are there. Come say hello and meet your friendly, cheerful Genealogical Association of Sacramento members. Join us please. --Melanie Howard

Family History Day means a day of camaraderie and learning with so many other people who are also interested in family history, genealogy, archives, libraries, and related issues. –Lois

Family History Day means new energy, new excitement, new hopes ….. a shared love of genealogy, of family history and the renewed search for ancestors and descendants. Being with other people that understand and get it when you talk about your brickwall, your lost ancestor, the courthouse burned down …… their eyes do not glaze over but instead they are sympathetic and offer suggestions of what to do now. I LOVE IT. --Sandi Benward

My first Family History Day was 3 years ago and I have returned every year since. I learn so much from the speakers and exhibitors. The opportunity to talk to other people researching in the same area as I am is always invaluable. Everyone is so willing to share resources and research tips. My family research always gets further ahead with every year I attend. Thank you to the organizers! --Harry

I will be attending Family History Day for the first time this year. Since I just recently started researching my grandparents’ history, I want to attend the classes for beginners. I am also interested in touring the archives. –Jake

What is your Sound Off! response to "What Family Hisotry Day means to me"? Send it to familyhistoryday2010@gmail.com. Indicate use of your name or anonymous. The next round of responses will be posted soon. Thanks! --FHD Blogger

KAY ALLEN, Speaker at Family History Day

2010-09-18T22:00:00.000-07:00

It is a pleasure to introduce Kay Allen as a speaker at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

Kay Allen is an Accredited Genealogist (accredited in the Middle Atlantic States) and has been immersed in genealogy for over 40 years since joining the Church of Jesus Christ, Latter-day Saints. She has been a Family History Consultant, a Sunday School Family History Instructor and a Ward Examiner (a person designated to check a group sheet being submitted to ensure that all was in order; this position no longer exists). As such, not only has she learned the sources for her own on-going genealogical research, but those for areas not even close to where she is searching.

Although not yet accredited specifically in New England or the British Isles, Kay has done extensive research on her ancestors from these areas. In England, she has visited the Society of Genealogists and the National Archives in Kew Gardens. Kay has also been privileged to visit the National Archives, the National Library and the Registry of Deeds in Dublin and the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland in Belfast.

Kay Allen will be presenting Hatch, Match, and Dispatch: the Essentials of English Genealogy. Learn about the B, M and D, and the records generated thereby.

UNITED DAUGHTERS OF THE CONFEDERACY - FORT SUMTER CHAPTER, Exhibitor at Family Day

2010-09-15T21:58:00.001-07:00

It is a pleasure to introduce the United Daughters of the Confederacy, Fort Sumter Chapter (Sacramento) as an exhibitor at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

The United Daughters of the Confederacy is the outgrowth of many local memorial, monument, and Confederate home associations and auxiliaries to camps of United Confederate Veterans that were organized after the War Between the States. It is the oldest patriotic organization in our country because of its connection with two statewide organizations that came into existence as early as 1890 -- the Daughters of the Confederacy in Missouri and the Ladies' Auxiliary of the Confederate Soldiers Home in Tennessee.

The National Association of the Daughters of the Confederacy was organized in Nashville, TN in 1894. In 1895, the organization changed its name to the United Daughters of the Confederacy. The United Daughters of the Confederacy was incorporated under the laws of the District of Columbia in 1919.

Membership is open to women no less than 16 years of age who are blood descendants, lineal or collateral, of men and women who served honorably in the Army, Navy or Civil Service of the Confederate States of America, or gave Material Aid to the Cause.

The objectives of the organization are Historical, Educational, Benevolent, Memorial and Patriotic to:

Collect and preserve the material necessary for a truthful history of the War Between the States and to protect, preserve, and mark the places made historic by Confederate valor
Assist descendants of worthy Confederates in securing a proper education
Fulfill the sacred duty of benevolence toward the survivor of the War and those dependent upon them
Honor the memory of those who served and those who fell in the service of the Confederate States of America
Record the part played during the War by Southern women, including their patient endurance of hardship, their patriotic devotion during the struggle, and their untiring efforts during the post-War reconstruction of the South
Cherish the ties of friendship among the members of the Organization

Genealogical Resource
The United Daughters of the Confederacy collects and preserves rare books, documents, diaries, letters, personal records, and other papers of historical importance relating to the period 1861 to 1865. The Caroline Meriwether Goodlett Library is the repository for these items.

The Helen Walpole Brewer Library was established in 1996 through a generous bequest of the late Helen Walpole Brewer. It contains microfilm copies of the National Archives Compiled Confederate Service Records and a limited number of regimental histories, family histories, pension records, and cemetery records.

The libraries are open to United Daughters of the Confederacy members and non-members by appointment. Both libraries are located at the UDC Memorial Building, 328 North Boulevard, Richmond, Virginia 23220-4009, (804) 355-1636.

The Fort Sumter Chapter is excited to be part of Family History Day. We look forward to talking to you about our organization, membership and library.

PLACER COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY, Exhibitor at Family History Day

2010-09-14T21:53:00.000-07:00

It is a pleasure to introduce the Placer County Genealogical Society as an exhibitor at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

The Placer County Genealogical Society was founded in 1980 to encourage an active interest in the study of genealogy and related interests by its members and the general public.

The Society's objectives are to:

Instruct and educate members and the general public in the use of genealogical research techniques and procedures.
Preserve public and private records, and to publish books, bulletins and newsletters relating to family history and genealogy.
Assist in the enhancement of the Auburn-Placer County Library Genealogical Department.

The Placer County Genealogical Society is an active organization featuring many activities including:

General membership meetings held on the fourth Thursday of each month, except December, at 7:00 p.m. (November meeting is rescheduled due to Thanksgiving). Meetings are held at the Auburn-Placer County Library Beecher Room, 350 Nevada Street in Auburn. Doors are open early for individual help and research. The meetings feature informative and educational programs on various topics of interest to genealogists.
Study group sessions held at 10:00 a.m. on the second Monday of each month except July, August and December. These sessions are designed to provide individualized help for researchers at all experience levels, particularly beginners,
Family Tree Maker User Group meetings held on the second Thursday of each month, 10:00 AM to 12:00pm at the LDS Stake Building, 1255 Bell Road, Auburn.
"Tracing Your Family Tree . . . How To Begin", a free, public seminar held in the spring of each year.
Library in the Genealogy Section of the Auburn-Placer County Library.
Placer Trails, the Society's monthly newsletter
Research Services and indexing and extraction projects of Placer County records.
Publications include Tracing Your Family Tree... How to Begin (fee).

Please stop by our exhibit at Family History Day and let us help you find your Placer County ancestors.

Placer County Genealogical Society

Post Office Box 7385

Auburn, California 95604

Voice Mail (866) 894-2076

placertrails@pcgs.pcgenes.com

DAR - GOLD TRAIL CHAPTER and GENERAL JOHN A. SUTTER CHAPTER, Exhibitors at Family History Day

2010-09-14T21:07:00.000-07:00

It is a pleasure to introduce the Gold Trail Chapter and the General John A. Sutter Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) as exhibitors at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

The Gold Trail and General John A. Sutter are chapters of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, founded in 1890 and headquartered in Washington, D.C. The DAR is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women's service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America's future through better education for children.

DAR members volunteer more than 60,000 hours annually to veteran patients, award over $150,000 in scholarships and financial aid each year to students, and support schools for the underprivileged with annual donations exceeding one million dollars.

As one of the most inclusive genealogical societies in the country, DAR boasts 170,000 members in 3,000 chapters across the United States and internationally. Encompassing an entire downtown city block, DAR National Headquarters houses one of the nation's premier genealogical libraries, Washington's largest concert hall, and an extensive collection of early American manuscripts and imprints.

Any woman 18 years or older-regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background-who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible for membership.

Nine chapters are in our District:

Gold Trail in Roseville

General John A. Sutter in Sacramento

Capt. John Oldham in Grass Valley

Chief Solano Chapter in Vacaville

El Dorado Chapter in Placerville

El Toyon Chapter in Stockton

Emigrant Trail Chapter in Auburn

Sacramento Chapter in Sacramento
Sierra Amador Chapter in Jackson

For information regarding the Gold Trail Chapter (Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Granite Bay), contact Betty Wilson at bettywilson1@att.net. For information regarding the General John A. Sutter Chapter, contact Marge Borger at MBorger548@aol.com.

Information on how to contact the other chapters will be available at our adjacent exhibits at Family History Day. Please stop by so we can chat!

FAMILY HISTORY DAY AT THE EL DORADO COUNTY LIBRARY

2010-09-14T21:05:00.000-07:00

During the month of August, Roots and Gold Dust Genealogical Society had a genealogy display set up at the El Dorado County Library in Placerville. Three display cases in the foyer of the library were decorated.

Family History Day at the California State Archives was promoted in the large display case.
.

This case displayed a person's life from his parent's marriage to his death. The display included various milestones in his life and the various items that documented each of these milestones

This case displayed of all the various resources available in El Dorado County for genealogical research, including Roots and Gold Dust Genealogical Society and the El Dorado County Historical Museum.

A big thank you to Judy Williams who arranged for, organized and helped create these displays and to Bonnie Holbrook, Carlyn White and Paul Hodel for all the work they put into preparing the displays. Judy Williams is also the Program Committee Chairperson for Family History Day at the California State Archives.

NEW TIME! SACRAMENTO BALLROOM SOCIETY, Member Performance at Family History Day

2010-09-14T06:28:00.000-07:00

Dancers in Victorian attire demonstrate
the polka at Gold Rush Days
in Old Sacramento.

It is a pleasure to introduce the Sacramento Ballroom Society whose members will perform at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

When you picture a Victorian lady, you may see her sitting quietly on a couch doing embroidery. You may find it hard to imagine her moving at anything but a sedate walk in her huge skirts. However, in Victorian ballrooms quite the opposite was true. The dances of the nineteenth century were, in fact, much faster and more vigorous than most ballroom dances today!

The Sacramento Ballroom Society’s historical dance group dresses up in Victorian attire and brings to life the dances of the 1800s. The rotary waltz, similar to today’s Viennese Waltz, is a very fast dance with constant spinning and is done to tunes such as Strauss’s The Blue Danube. The polka is another fast spinning, skipping dance, which plays a memorable role in the musical The King and I. Our group also demonstrates set dances, such as the Virginia Reel and Sir Roger de Coverley. The latter is danced during the scene in A Christmas Carol in which Scrooge watches Fezziwig’s party.

Our group performs at various events in the Sacramento area, including the Gibson Ranch Civil War Re-enactment in May and Gold Rush Days in Old Sacramento over Labor Day weekend.

We will be offering historical dance classes on Fridays, 6:30-7:30, starting on September 10th. We also host a modern dance on the second and fourth Saturday evenings of every month. The location is Ultimate Dancesport, 9181c Kiefer Blvd., Sacramento.

We will be dancing from 11:30am - 12:45pm (New Time) during Family History Day in the lobby of the California State Archives. Live music will be provided by Claudia’s Kitchen, a folk music band which we love to dance to. Our group will be demonstrating various dances and also inviting any audience members involved in a few set dances. Come see how your ancestors may have danced and even give it a whirl yourself!

Sacramento Ballroom Society

Class Location:

Ultimate Dancesport

9181c Kiefer Blvd.

Sacramento, CA

JERRY UNRUH, Speaker at Family History Day

2010-09-13T21:18:00.000-07:00

It is a pleasure to introduce Jerry Unruh who will be a speaker at Family History Day at the California State Archives.
Jerry has been researching his genealogy for more than thirty years. Early on, he wrote his own genealogy program when the few programs available were unable to meet his needs. He eventually switched to Family Tree Maker to be able to more easily exchange data when other family members became infected with the genealogy bug.

Jerry has been a member of the Placer County Genealogical Society for more than twenty years and has held several positions within the society including six years as President. He currently maintains their website, serves as newsletter editor and has been supporting their Family Tree Maker User Group for the last several years.

Jerry will be presenting Internet Research, techniques for using the world wide web in your ancestral search.

DONALD MACRAE, Ph.D., Speaker at Family History Day

2010-09-13T21:17:00.000-07:00

Donald MacRae, holds a PhD in etymology from the University of Edinburgh. Dr. MacRae’s early interest in language and linguistics led to a broader interest in the origins of surnames, genealogy, heraldry and the history of Scottish Clans and Tartans. His professional background includes lecturing and workshops,
membership in various heraldic, genealogical and names societies.

Since 1968 he has been the Director of the American Heraldic and Genealogical Institute in Sacramento.

Dr. MacRae will be presenting the Science of Names, how the origin of surnames can help with your genealogical research.

PAMELA DALLAS, Family History Day Speaker

2010-09-13T21:06:00.000-07:00

It is a pleasure to introduce Pamela Dallas as a speaker at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

Pamela lectures nationally and locally on a wide range of topics, speaking frequently at society meetings, conferences and presenting full-day workshops. She is a professional researcher and a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, the Genealogical Speakers Bureau and several local societies. Pamela has served on the board of many societies. She played a key role in the success of the National Genealogical Society Conference held in Sacramento in 2004. Pamela has appeared on local television and radio talk shows to discuss genealogy and has written and appeared in several genealogy instructional videos aired on local TV. She believes the best part of genealogy is the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people.

Pamela will be presenting two classes:

I Can't Do My Research, the Courthouse Burned: Researching Burned Counties: Are you stuck in a “Burned County?” Burned counties (counties with extensive records loss due to fire, flood, or other disasters) offer difficult challenges for genealogists. This class will help you discover creative ways to outwit the “Burned County” problem.

Evaluating Evidence: This class will present research practices to help you separate fact from fiction and how to document its degree of reliability.

GENEALOGICAL AND HISTORICAL COUNCIL OF SACRAMENTO VALLEY, Exhibitor at Family History Day

2010-09-12T22:19:00.000-07:00

It is a pleasure to introduce the Genealogical and Historical Council of Sacramento Valley as a co-sponsor of and an exhibitor at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

It was mid-1987. Dorothy Lazelle Williams was the North Central Valley Region representative to the California State Genealogical Alliance at the time. She met with a small group of representatives from local genealogical organizations to lay the groundwork for the beginning of an umbrella group or council for the Sacramento Valley area. In the Autumn of 1988, the first meeting was held to form the Sacramento Valley Genealogical Council, a name that evolved into the Genealogical and Historical Council of Sacramento Valley.

The Council is comprised of individuals and organizations working together to exchange information, coordinate calendar events, avoid duplication of group projects, and encourage the preservation and accessibility of records of genealogical and historical value. The officers of its inaugural year included Joyce Buckland, Chairperson; Verl Weight, Vice Chairperson; Carol Feige, Secretary; and Elizabeth Kohler, Treasurer. Charles Green of the Sacramento Regional Family History Center designed the logo. Iris Carter Jones was an active committee member.

The mission of the Council is to:

Provide communication channels for genealogical, historical, cultural and patriotic organizations and libraries.
Coordinate the scheduling of activities and events by providing a long-range planning calendar.
Encourage the identification and preservation of records of genealogical and historical importance, and to maintain the accessibility of such records for research.
Increase public awareness in the educational value of genealogical and historical records and research.
Promote ethical and professional standards in genealogical and historical research.

The Council publishes a speakers directory for the Northern California area that is available to societies. Membership is open to organizations and individuals interested in promoting genealogy and history research and knowledge. Annual dues are $25 for organizations and $15 for individuals, payable in January.

Member Organizations

Genealogical Association of Sacramento

Jewish Genealogical Society of Sacramento

Mission Oaks Genealogy Club

Nevada County Genealogical Society

Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum

Placer County Genealogical Society

Root Cellar - Sacramento Genealogical Society

Roots & Gold Dust Genealogical Society

Roseville Genealogical Society

Sacramento German Genealogy Society

Sacramento Public Library

Sacramento Regional LDS Family History Center

Solano County Genealogical Society

Sun City Roseville Genealogy Club

Be sure to visit our exhibit and let us find a

genealogy society "home" for you!

Meeting Location

Sacramento Regional Family History Center

2745 Eastern Avenue

Sacramento, California

SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, Exhibitor at Family History day

2010-09-12T22:09:00.000-07:00

It is a pleasure to introduce The Sons of the American Revolution as an exhibitor at Family History Day at the California State Archives.

The Sons of the American Revolution are direct descendants of those patriots that achieved the independence of the American people. The objectives of our organization are intended to perpetuate a more profound reverence for the principles of the government founded by our forefathers.

The SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION was incorporated in Connecticut on January 17, 1890 and later chartered by the United States Congress on June 6, 1906. Prior to 1890, a number of state societies were formed. These were led by the Sons of Revolutionary Sires, which was organized July 4, 1876 in San Francisco, California. Acting on a resolution by the New Jersey Society, delegates from thirteen state societies met at Faunce’s Tavern in New York City on April 30, 1889 in celebration of the one hundredth anniversary of the inauguration of George Washington. It was on this date that the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution was organized.

The Sons of the American Revolution is a historical, educational, and patriotic United States 501(c)3 non-profit organization that seeks to maintain and extend:

The institutions of American freedom
An appreciation for true patriotism
A respect for our national symbols
The value of American citizenship
The unifying force of e pluribus unum that has created, from the people of many nations, one nation and one people.

We do this by perpetuating the stories of patriotism, courage, sacrifice, tragedy, and triumph of the men who achieved the independence of the American people in the belief that these stories are universal ones of man's eternal struggle against tyranny, relevant to all time, and will inspire and strengthen each succeeding generation as it too is called upon to defend our freedoms on the battlefield and in our public institutions. We also preserve the memory of those whose service and sacrifice during the American Revolution secured independence for the American people.

Unite and promote fellowship among their descendants.
Inspire them and the Community with a more profound reverence for the principles of the government founded by our forefathers.
Encourage historical research in relation to the American Revolution.
Maintain and extend the institutions of American freedom, an appreciation for true patriotism, a respect for our national symbols, and the value of American citizenship.
Promote the purposes expressed in the preamble of the Constitution.

We look forward to telling you more about our organization at Family History Day and helping you with your lineage search.

Contact person:

Don Littlefield

President, Sacramento Chapter

Sons of the American Revolution

http://www.sarsac.org/

ROOT CELLAR - SACRAMENTO GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY LIBRARY

2010-09-09T21:29:00.000-07:00

Looking for great-grandma Ada
at the Root Cellar Library

It is a pleasure to introduce the Root Cellar-Sacramento Genealogical Society Library and Sammie Hudgens, Root Cellar Librarian. The Library will be open for browsing and research at Family History Day at the California State Archives. Sammie and library docents will be on-hand to orient and assist visitors.

Sammie Hudgens has devoted many years to the growth and development of the Root Cellar Library (click on membership benefits). Her efforts speak for themselves – the Library is a treasure trove for family history researchers, for Root Cellar members and visitors alike. The Library contains over 5,000 volumes from nearly every state and many countries. There are more than 150 books on California alone, including the 1890 Great Registers for the whole state. The CD collection is well-over 150 and counting. Our online Catalog is a helpful tool for locating the title or topic of interest to you.

Sammie is currently overseeing the inventory of an extensive genealogical collection recently donated to Root Cellar by the Dorothy Williams estate. The collection portends to be a wonderful addition to the Library.

Below is a sampling of the research materials available to you at the Library:

Revolutionary War Books
Lists of Passengers, Emigration and Immigration for Germany, Ireland, Italy and Russia
Periodicals from over 100 genealogical societies across the United States
Root Cellar member-submitted materials such as Surname Cards, Pedigree Charts and Pioneer Certificates
Publications containing data that Root Cellar volunteers have extracted from local records on subjects including state militia, coroner’s office, divorces, state prison convicts, and cemeteries. These extractions are also available for sale by Root Cellar.

The Library is maintained by Root Cellar – Sacramento Genealogical Society and is housed at the California State Archives on the 4th floor, the same location where Family History Day will be held. Be sure to come into the Library and browse awhile!

Root Cellar Library

1020 “N” Street, 4th Floor

Inside the California State Archives Building

Sacramento, CA 95814

Open 9:30am – 4pm Monday - Friday

and the first Saturday of each month

(except holidays)

and, currently, State employee furlough days

on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Fridays of the month.