Societies
What Societies Are[edit | edit source]
Genealogical societies are non-profit organizations associations interested in genealogical research and preserving history and records. The society has members that share knowledge of genealogical records and methodologies for either a specific locality or another interest, such as a cultural group, family surname, or soldiers/veterans.
Their purpose is to bring people together for various different activities. All societies are a little different in goal and services they provide for their members.
Genealogical societies can also provide information to those seeking information about their interest. County genealogical societies can have detailed information about previous settlers and residents of an area. They can collect, transcribe, index, and publish records to provide access for members and other individuals (sometimes for a fee). Local genealogical societies often help family history researchers contact local record searchers or copy records that mention the researcher's ancestors. Often their records contain birth, marriage, death, and biographical information.
Types of Societies[edit | edit source]
There are many types of societies that can help with your family history research.
- Genealogical
- Historical
- Lineage: lineage societies for descendants of pioneers, soldiers, and ethnic groups.
- Veterans
- Fraternal
- Surname and family associations
- Cultural group
- Fraternal organizations
Societies and organizations that emphasize genealogy and family history may be able to provide information of value to your genealogical research.
Lineage[edit | edit source]
Lineage societies, such as the DAR, Colonial Dames, General Society of Colonial Wars, and the Sons of the American Revolution, require members to prove they are descended from certain people, such as colonists or soldiers. The applications for membership in these societies are preserved, and many are on microfilm at the FamilySearch Library.
Information Available at Societies[edit | edit source]
Types of Information[edit | edit source]
Societies can generate genealogies, biographies, histories, and indexes of local records. They may publish periodicals, lists of members and ancestors, yearbooks, or surname indexes.
Genealogical and historical societies often maintain a genealogical file for families in the area and may sponsor publications. Many societies publish helpful journals, transcripts, and compiled genealogies.
Publications[edit | edit source]
Most publish quarterly periodicals, a few of which are listed in Periodicals. Use the Periodical Source Index (Persi) to find periodicals and articles for Illinois localities.
Most societies publish queries in their journals and maintain lists of members’ research interests.
How to Find Societies for a Location[edit | edit source]
Many counties have their own genealogical societies and they can be found on their county pages.
Joining Societies[edit | edit source]
Joining a society and supporting its efforts provide ways to help fellow genealogists as well as assist in your own genealogical research.
Visit the society's website or social media page to find membership fees and contact information.