Federation of Genealogical Societies

The Federation of Genealogical Societies annual conference is getting reved up for the 2011 meeting in Springfield, IL, Sept 7-10.     If you plan to attend, it is time to get registered, find a hotel and start planning what sessions you will attend.  I usually try to attend every year, but will have to sit it out this year due to other commitments.

As we get closer to 2012, you will hear more about the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812.  The Federation is helping the National Archives and the genealogy community digitize the War of 1812 Pension Applications.  There is a counter on their website that lets you see their progress.  They are about 1% of the way and need financial assistance to complete the project.  Donations are gladly accepted, so go to the Federation website at www.fgs.org. and make a donation.

There are so many things to hear about at FGS.  And one of the most important parts is the exhibit area where 100s of exhibitors display their software, books, maps, etc.  It always seems like I come home with about 100 extra pounds of books.

All folks who profess to be a genealogist should attend at least one major genealogy conference per year and a number of local meetings to keep current with new ideas, records and websites available.

A Week of DAR

This week started with Regents’ Club of Central Pennsylvania where new officers were elected.  President, Joan Romig;   V. President, Mary Duggan; Recording Secretary, Suzanne Seebold; Corresponding Secretary, Deborah White Hershey; Treasurer, Phoebe Conner; Chaplain, Lorraine Prutzman.

It was on to Harrisburg Chapter, DAR Flag Day luncheon with SAR.  We had an excellent attendance with numerous prospective, pending  and verified members.  The support the Chapter has garnered continues to grow as others see the many projects we have to honor our veterans, including Wreaths Across America; toiletries to Lebanon VA hospital; Bingo with the veterans at Lebanon; and clothing and other items sent to Landstuhl Medical Center in Germany.

Finally a trip to Rocky Springs Presbyterian Church in Chambersburg to the Franklin County Chapter, DAR memorial service and annual church service. The church is owned and maintained by this chapter.  It was a very warm day, but well attended services.