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.