FamilySearch Wiki

Washington DC FamilySearch Center: Difference between revisions

VisualWikitext
No edit summary
 
(222 intermediate revisions by 17 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{FHCpage|location=Washington D.C.}}<br>
{{FSCpage|location=Maryland}}
__NOTOC__


The Washington DC Family History Center is open for genealogical research by both church members and the general public. We provide local access to Church microfilmed family history records, family history computer resources, and internet genealogical websites.  
[[File:WDCFSC exterior.jpg|center|600x900px|border]]


There is no charge for using the facility and only nominal charges for use of the copying machines, purchase of some forms, and rental of microfilms or microfiche. &nbsp;
=='''<big>Location and Contacts</big>'''==


Patrons are responsible for doing their own genealogical research. Our all-volunteer staff is ready to answer questions about the resources available in the FHC and give limited research guidance.


=== Center Contacts and Hours  ===


'''Mailing Address''': PO Box 49,&nbsp;Kensington, MD 20895<br>'''Street Address''': 10000 Stoneybrook Drive,&nbsp;Kensington, MD 20895 [http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&tab=wl&authuser=0 maps.google.com/maps]<br>  
<big>'''Washington DC FamilySearch Center'''</big>


:'''Directions''''': I-495 to Connecticut Avenue NORTH. At first traffic light outside I-495, turn right onto BEACH Drive. Follow until Beach Drive dead-ends into STONEYBROOK Drive. Turn left. Turn left again into the 3rd driveway. The FHC is on the right side of the building, half-way back.''
<big>10000 Stoneybrook Drive</big>


'''Phone: &nbsp;(301) 587-0042'''
<big>Kensington, MD 20895</big>


'''E-mail:'''&nbsp;&nbsp;wdcfhcfilms@gmail.com<br>  
<big>Phone: 301-587-0042</big>


'''Website: &nbsp;&nbsp;'''http://www.wdcfhc.org
<big>Location Map: [http://maps.google.com/maps?q=10000+Stoneybrook+Drive,+Kensington,+MD+&hl=en&ll=39.016716,-77.06347&spn=0.023841,0.045447&sll=36.073834,-87.333927&sspn=0.027957,0.044932&vpsrc=6&t=m&z=15 Location Map]</big>


'''Hours of Operation:'''&nbsp;
<big>E-mail: [mailto:wdcfhc@gmail.com wdcfhc@gmail.com]</big>


:*Monday: Closed
==<big>'''Hours of Operation'''</big>==
<big>Sunday.....................................................12:00 pm - 4:00 pm</big>


:*Tuesday: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. &amp; 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.  
<big>Monday....................................................Closed</big>
:*Wednesday: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. &amp; 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.  
:*Thursday: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. &amp; 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.  
:*Friday: 9:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.  
:*Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.


'''2011 Closings &amp; Holiday Schedule:'''
<big>Tuesday....................................................Closed</big>


:*Closed when Montgomery County Schools are closed.  
<big>Wednesday .............................................10:00 am - 4:00 pm</big>
:*Columbus Day Holiday: October 8-10; reopen October 11
:*Thanksgiving Holiday: &nbsp;November 23-26; reopen November 29
:*Christmas Holiday: &nbsp;December 19 - Jan 2; reopen January 3 2012


'''Procedures &amp; Rules'''
<big>Thursday ................................................10:00 am - 4:00 pm</big>


:No materials can leave the FHC, including books, microfilm, microfiche or CD-ROMs. Smoking, alcohol and illegal drugs are not permitted anywhere on the premises. No food or drink (except for water) is permitted. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult and must not disturb other patrons. <br>
<big>Thursday Evening 1st, 3rd, 5th....................6:00 pm - 9:00 pm</big>


'''Newsletter''':
<big>Friday.......................................................Closed</big>


:Our free monthly newsletter, ''Generations'', is sent via email during the first week of each month. It has timely information about activities and events at our FHC as well as research tips and links. To subscribe, please send an email to: [[Info@wdcfhc.org.|info@wdcfhc.org]]. <br>
<big>Saturday..................................................10:00 am - 4:00 pm</big>


<br>


----
<big>''The FamilySearch Center will close when Montgomery County Schools are closed for bad weather.''</big>
 
<big>''If it is a Saturday, please call before leaving your home:  301-587-0042''</big>
 
== <big>Generations Newsletter</big> ==
 
<big>Subscribe to our monthly Generations Newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox in the first week of every month. Stay updated with timely information on activities and events at our FamilySearch Center, along with valuable research tips and links. To subscribe, simply email us at: wdcfhc@gmail.com.</big>
 
<big>You can find past editions of Generations in the archived section accessible [https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/dwgz2rj9sosszqhtc6bd4/Generations-Archived-Newsletters.docx?rlkey=xh146mjihokda0w4fdzesfq0d&dl=0 here].</big>
 
==<big>'''Washington DC FamilySearch Center Resources'''</big>==
 
 
 
* <big>Bring your own laptop to access the Premium FamilySearch Portal while connected to the free FamilySearch Center Wifi.</big>
 
* <big>There are 16 computers available, with 4 equipped with dual monitors.</big>
 
* <big>The facility offers a high-volume photo scanner capable of scanning 500 photos per hour.</big>
 
* <big>Additionally, there is a flatbed scanner for editing photographs, slides, photo negatives, and documents.</big>
 
* <big>For digitizing slides and negatives, there's a specialized slide and negative scanner. This scanner allows you to view digital images on a monitor, making it easier to adjust tint and print quality before the actual scanning process.</big>
 
* <big>A book scanner is also available, enabling quick scanning of books and magazines. The scanner produces high-resolution images that can convert text to OCR for better accessibility.</big>
 
* <big>Explore the Library Collection, which includes a comprehensive assortment of printed books. This collection encompasses family histories, yearbooks, biographies, local histories, and other genealogical books.</big>
 
==[[FamilySearch Center Portal|<big>'''FamilySearch Center Portal'''</big>]]==
* <big>Access Newspaper Archives</big>
* <big>Ancestry Library Edition</big>
* <big>ArkivDigital Online (Swedish)</big>
* <big>MyHeritage.com</big>
* <big>FindMyPast</big>
* <big>Fold3</big>
* <big>19th Century British Library Newspapers</big>
* <big>Puzzilla</big>
* <big>Historic Map Works Library Edition</big>
* <big>The Genealogist</big>
* <big>Alexander Street Press, American Civil War</big>
* <big>Paper Trail</big>
 
== <big>'''Research Specialists'''</big> ==
<big>Dedicated volunteers with expertise in various areas of U.S. and international research are ready to assist patrons. Some of our volunteers are affiliated with the APG (Association of Professional Genealogists). If you have a specific research requirement, feel free to reach out to us, and we'll be happy to explore how we can assist you.</big>


=== Calendar and Events  ===
==<big>'''Special Interest Groups'''</big>==
<big>'''African-American Special Interest Group'''</big>


==== Upcoming Events  ====
<big>The African-American Special Interest Group is a community dedicated to exploring all aspects of African-American genealogy. The group offers a platform for individuals interested in delving into their African-American roots, providing support, resources, and a collaborative environment for genealogical research. Meetings are scheduled to accommodate both virtual and in-person participation, fostering inclusivity and flexibility.</big>


Annual Family History Conference: &nbsp;May 5, 2012
<big>- Alternating Mondays, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Virtual meetings on Zoom</big>


==== Class Schedule  ====
<big>- Alternating Mondays, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM: In-person meetings at the Washington DC FamilySearch Center</big>


==== '''''"Beginning Genealogy"'''''  ====
<big>''For further information, please contact Frank Jenkins at FSCAASIG@gmail.com.''</big>


A free 4-session class, taught by Lorraine Minor
<big>---</big>


'''Class 1 - Getting Started in Genealogy''' <br>September 17th, 9:30 - 11:30 Lecture<br> Learn the genealogical research process, how to record and evaluate information, cite sources used, maintain a research calendar and develop a research plan. <br> <br>'''Class 2 - US Census Research''' <br>October 22nd, 9:30 - 11:30 Lecture and workshop<br> The decennial US Census is a valuable tool for genealogical researchers. Learn what information is available in the census, how to search for your ancestor and then record and evaluate your findings. After the lecture students will research their families using computers in the Family History Center. <br> <br>'''Class 3 - Researching on the Internet''' <br>November 19th, 9:30 - 11:30 Lecture and workshop<br> The internet has a wealth of information useful for genealogical research. Learn about web sites available for free and subscription sites available at the Family History Center and how to record, evaluate and cite the information found. There will be time to access these web sites after the lecture. <br> <br>'''Class 4 - Research Beyond the Internet''' <br>December 17th, 9:30-11:30 Lecture and workshop<br> Although documents and books are being digitized at a rapid rate, if may be years before the information you need to solve your research problem will be available on the internet - if at all. Learn how to determine the kinds of records that will most likely solve your research problem and where and how to find them by researching in local archives and libraries and those in your ancestral home. <br> <br>Classes will be held at the Washington DC Family History Center<br>10000 Stoneybrook Drive, Kensington, MD 20895
<big>'''Beginning Genealogy Special Interest Group'''</big>


For registration and further information: &nbsp;[[Info@wdcfhc.org.|info@wdcfhc.org]];&nbsp;phone: 301-587-0042<br>  
<big>The Beginning Genealogy Research Group is designed for individuals who are new to genealogy and are eager to start their research journey. The group provides a supportive atmosphere for beginners, offering guidance and resources to help them navigate the initial stages of genealogical exploration.</big>


==== Staff Training Meetings  ====
<big>- Every Tuesday, 10:30 AM: Virtual meetings on Zoom</big>


:*November 13, 2011 at 6:00 p.m.
<big>''For further information, please contact Lorraine Minor at ldgene@verizon.net.''</big>


----
<big>---</big>


=== Center Resources  ===
<big>'''Advanced DNA Special Interest Group'''</big>


==== '''Oral History Room'''  ====
<big>The Advanced DNA Research Group focuses on advanced methodologies and tools in DNA research for genealogy. This group is tailored for individuals with a deeper understanding of DNA analysis and aims to explore cutting-edge techniques and technologies in the field.</big>


:A unique feature of our FHC is our Oral History Room, which is equipped with professional audio and digital video technology. This is an easy way to capture and preserve the living history of a family member or loved one. For further information or to schedule the room,call Terry Willard at 301-365-4058; email: [[FHCStaff@gmail.com|FHCStaff@gmail.com]]
<big>- 2nd Wednesday of each month, 7:00 PM: Virtual meetings on Zoom</big>


==== Collections  ====
<big>''For further information, please contact Jim Bartlett at jim4bartletts@verizon.net.''</big>


:*[https://www.familysearch.org/#form=catalog '''Family History Library Catalog:'''] This center has the ability to order any of the films and fiche available through the Family History Library Catalog.''<br>''
<big>---</big>


===== Additional Resources:  =====
<big>'''Beginning DNA Special Interest Group'''</big>


:#'''Card Catalog''' - Items in this FHC are found in the card catalog, which lists microfilm, fiche and book presently onsite. Cards are arranged by Locality, Surname, and Subject.
<big>The Beginning DNA Research Group is geared towards individuals who want to learn how to use DNA for genealogical research. The group provides a foundational understanding of DNA analysis and its application in tracing family history.</big>
:#'''Family Group Records Archives (FGRA)''' - This is the only FHC east of the Mississippi River to have a full set of these microfilms which represent the largest part of the Family History Library’s collection of over 8 million Family Group Sheets. There are roughly 1991 films, arranged alphabetically by the husband’s surname.
:#'''Books''' - Shelved by Locality, Subject, or Family Name. Books for each state in the U.S. are arranged alphabetically; each state has a binder containing a Research Outline and other materials. There are books on immigration, church records, census, military, and foreign countries; maps and atlases.
:#'''Chinese Digital Penpad''' - allows patrons to write Chinese characters on the computer.
:#'''Other Finding Aids''' - research guides, handwriting guides, letter writing guides for foreign countries, magazines. <br>


==== Databases and Software  ====
<big>- 3rd Thursday of each month, 7:00 PM: Virtual meetings on Zoom</big>


:*[http://fhc.familysearch.org/ '''FHC Portal:'''] This center has access to the Family History Center Portal page which gives free access in the center to premium family history software and websites that generally charge for subscriptions&nbsp;:&nbsp;Ancestry.com FHC Institution version, World Vital Records; Fold3.com, NewspaperArchive.com, Heritage Quest, FamilyLink, Godfrey Memorial Library, Genline, FindMyPast.uk, FamilyHistoryLink, Alexander Street Press (Civil War), The Genealogist, Historic Map Works, 19th Century British Library Newspaper Digital Archive.
<big>''For further information, please contact Andy Hochreiter at ajhochreiter@comcast.net.''</big>
:*Our computers have links to hundreds of genealogy websites.
:*The following genealogy software is available on our computers: PAF, RootsMagic, Legacy, Family Tree Maker.<br>&nbsp;


==== Hardware and Equipment''<br>''  ====
<big>---</big>


:*Wi-Fi
<big>'''Eastern European Genealogy Special Interest Group'''</big>
:*Twelve computers
:*Six printers (one color)
:*Two microfilm reader-printers (Canon and ScanPro)
:*Two flatbed scanners
:*Ten microfilm readers
:*Two microfiche readers


<br>  
<big>The Eastern European Genealogy Research Group focuses on research and resources in countries such as the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Belarus. This group offers a platform for individuals with roots in Eastern Europe to collaborate, share insights, and access valuable resources.</big>


----
<big>- 3rd Saturday of each month, 1:00 PM: Virtual meetings on Zoom</big>


=== Center Services  ===
<big>''For further information, please contact Mary Ann Evan at maryann.evan@gmail.com.''</big>


==== Staff Research Specialties''<br>''  ====
<big>---</big>


==== Special Interest Groups  ====
<big>'''Irish Special Interest Group'''</big>


We are organizing special interest groups focused on specific areas of genealogy research. Working with others is an excellent way to learn new research strategies, brainstorm brick wall issues, give and receive support and advice. There is no charge to be part of a group.  
<big>The Irish Research Group concentrates on genealogical research in both Ireland and the U.S. This group provides a space for individuals interested in tracing their Irish ancestry, offering support, expertise, and valuable resources.</big>


*African-American research group meets every Monday from 9:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
<big>- 3rd Wednesday of each month, 7:00 PM: Virtual meetings on Zoom</big>
*Irish research group meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday nights from 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.


Additional groups will be formed as requested by patrons.  
<big>''For further information, please contact Cindy Finelli at cfinelli16@gmail.com.''</big>


----
<big>---</big>


=== Resources in the Local Area<br> ===
<big>'''Metro DC RootsMagic Users Group'''</big>


''(This section is to highlight other resources in your area that will be helpful for individuals doing research there in your location, if there are any, such as government offices, historical societies, etc.)''
<big>The Metro DC RootsMagic Users Group is dedicated to exploring the features of RootsMagic 9, a popular genealogical software. This group aims to help members maximize their usage of RootsMagic for researching, organizing, and sharing family history.</big>


----
<big>- 1st and 2nd Saturdays each month, 9:30 AM: Virtual meetings on Zoom</big>


=== Links  ===
<big>''For further information, please contact Gary Petranek at gpetranek@gmail.com.''</big>


''(Include links to other websites of interest to those who visit your center such as links to the city, county and state wiki pages where your center is located.)''  
==<big>'''Resources in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area'''</big>==
*[http://www.archives.gov/ <big>National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, DC</big>]


*[http://www.loc.gov/index.html <big>Library of Congress, Washington, DC</big>]
*[http://www.dar.org/ <big>DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution)</big>]
*[http://www.dclibrary.org/research/collections <big>Martin Luther King Public Library, Washington DC Special Collections</big>]
*<big>[https://msa.maryland.gov/ Maryland Archives]</big>
*[http://www.mdgensoc.org/ <big>Maryland Genealogical Society</big>]
*[http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/vr/ <big>Virginia Room of the Fairfax County Virginia Library</big>]
*[http://www.vgs.org/ <big>Virginia Genealogical Society</big>]
*[http://www.aahgs.org/ <big>Afro-American Historical &amp; Genealogical Society (AAHGS)</big>]
*[https://os.dc.gov/service/district-columbia-archives <big>District of Columbia Archives</big>]
*<big>See also the [[District of Columbia Archives and Libraries]] FamilySearch Wiki page.</big><br><br><br>
<big>If you are interested in Volunteering in the Washington DC FamilySearch Center,</big> <big>kindly reach out to</big> <big>us</big> <big>directly.</big>
----
----


=== Volunteer at the Center  ===
[[Category:District of Columbia FamilySearch Centers]]
 
''(Include information here about the volunteers you are looking for.)''

Latest revision as of 18:28, 7 June 2024

FamilySearch This article describes the services and resources available at a FamilySearch Center, a branch facility of the FamilySearch Library.



WDCFSC exterior.jpg

Location and Contacts

Washington DC FamilySearch Center

10000 Stoneybrook Drive

Kensington, MD 20895

Phone: 301-587-0042

Location Map: Location Map

E-mail: wdcfhc@gmail.com

Hours of Operation

Sunday.....................................................12:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Monday....................................................Closed

Tuesday....................................................Closed

Wednesday .............................................10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Thursday ................................................10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Thursday Evening 1st, 3rd, 5th....................6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Friday.......................................................Closed

Saturday..................................................10:00 am - 4:00 pm


The FamilySearch Center will close when Montgomery County Schools are closed for bad weather.

If it is a Saturday, please call before leaving your home:  301-587-0042

Generations Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly Generations Newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox in the first week of every month. Stay updated with timely information on activities and events at our FamilySearch Center, along with valuable research tips and links. To subscribe, simply email us at: wdcfhc@gmail.com.

You can find past editions of Generations in the archived section accessible here.

Washington DC FamilySearch Center Resources

  • Bring your own laptop to access the Premium FamilySearch Portal while connected to the free FamilySearch Center Wifi.
  • There are 16 computers available, with 4 equipped with dual monitors.
  • The facility offers a high-volume photo scanner capable of scanning 500 photos per hour.
  • Additionally, there is a flatbed scanner for editing photographs, slides, photo negatives, and documents.
  • For digitizing slides and negatives, there's a specialized slide and negative scanner. This scanner allows you to view digital images on a monitor, making it easier to adjust tint and print quality before the actual scanning process.
  • A book scanner is also available, enabling quick scanning of books and magazines. The scanner produces high-resolution images that can convert text to OCR for better accessibility.
  • Explore the Library Collection, which includes a comprehensive assortment of printed books. This collection encompasses family histories, yearbooks, biographies, local histories, and other genealogical books.

FamilySearch Center Portal

  • Access Newspaper Archives
  • Ancestry Library Edition
  • ArkivDigital Online (Swedish)
  • MyHeritage.com
  • FindMyPast
  • Fold3
  • 19th Century British Library Newspapers
  • Puzzilla
  • Historic Map Works Library Edition
  • The Genealogist
  • Alexander Street Press, American Civil War
  • Paper Trail

Research Specialists

Dedicated volunteers with expertise in various areas of U.S. and international research are ready to assist patrons. Some of our volunteers are affiliated with the APG (Association of Professional Genealogists). If you have a specific research requirement, feel free to reach out to us, and we'll be happy to explore how we can assist you.

Special Interest Groups

African-American Special Interest Group

The African-American Special Interest Group is a community dedicated to exploring all aspects of African-American genealogy. The group offers a platform for individuals interested in delving into their African-American roots, providing support, resources, and a collaborative environment for genealogical research. Meetings are scheduled to accommodate both virtual and in-person participation, fostering inclusivity and flexibility.

- Alternating Mondays, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Virtual meetings on Zoom

- Alternating Mondays, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM: In-person meetings at the Washington DC FamilySearch Center

For further information, please contact Frank Jenkins at FSCAASIG@gmail.com.

---

Beginning Genealogy Special Interest Group

The Beginning Genealogy Research Group is designed for individuals who are new to genealogy and are eager to start their research journey. The group provides a supportive atmosphere for beginners, offering guidance and resources to help them navigate the initial stages of genealogical exploration.

- Every Tuesday, 10:30 AM: Virtual meetings on Zoom

For further information, please contact Lorraine Minor at ldgene@verizon.net.

---

Advanced DNA Special Interest Group

The Advanced DNA Research Group focuses on advanced methodologies and tools in DNA research for genealogy. This group is tailored for individuals with a deeper understanding of DNA analysis and aims to explore cutting-edge techniques and technologies in the field.

- 2nd Wednesday of each month, 7:00 PM: Virtual meetings on Zoom

For further information, please contact Jim Bartlett at jim4bartletts@verizon.net.

---

Beginning DNA Special Interest Group

The Beginning DNA Research Group is geared towards individuals who want to learn how to use DNA for genealogical research. The group provides a foundational understanding of DNA analysis and its application in tracing family history.

- 3rd Thursday of each month, 7:00 PM: Virtual meetings on Zoom

For further information, please contact Andy Hochreiter at ajhochreiter@comcast.net.

---

Eastern European Genealogy Special Interest Group

The Eastern European Genealogy Research Group focuses on research and resources in countries such as the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Belarus. This group offers a platform for individuals with roots in Eastern Europe to collaborate, share insights, and access valuable resources.

- 3rd Saturday of each month, 1:00 PM: Virtual meetings on Zoom

For further information, please contact Mary Ann Evan at maryann.evan@gmail.com.

---

Irish Special Interest Group

The Irish Research Group concentrates on genealogical research in both Ireland and the U.S. This group provides a space for individuals interested in tracing their Irish ancestry, offering support, expertise, and valuable resources.

- 3rd Wednesday of each month, 7:00 PM: Virtual meetings on Zoom

For further information, please contact Cindy Finelli at cfinelli16@gmail.com.

---

Metro DC RootsMagic Users Group

The Metro DC RootsMagic Users Group is dedicated to exploring the features of RootsMagic 9, a popular genealogical software. This group aims to help members maximize their usage of RootsMagic for researching, organizing, and sharing family history.

- 1st and 2nd Saturdays each month, 9:30 AM: Virtual meetings on Zoom

For further information, please contact Gary Petranek at gpetranek@gmail.com.

Resources in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area

If you are interested in Volunteering in the Washington DC FamilySearch Center, kindly reach out to us directly.

Retrieved from "https://integration-ru.familysearch.org/en/wiki/index.php?title=Washington_DC_FamilySearch_Center&oldid=5760110"