Washington DC FamilySearch Center
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This article describes the services and resources available at a FamilySearch Center, a branch facility of the FamilySearch Library. |
The Washington DC Family History Center (FHC) is a branch of the Family History Department of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) and is open for genealogical research by both church members and the general public. FHCs provide local access to Church microfilmed family history records, family history computer resources, and internet genealogical websites.
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.
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, Kensington, MD 20895
Street Address: 10000 Stoneybrook Drive, Kensington, MD 20895 maps.google.com/maps
Phone: (301) 587-0042
E-mail: wdcfhcfilms@gmail.com
Website: http://www.wdcfhc.org
Hours of Operation:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. & 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. & 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Thursday: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. & 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 & Holiday Schedule:
- Closed when Montgomery County Schools are closed.
- Columbus Day Holiday: October 8-10; reopen October 11
- Thanksgiving Holiday: November 23-26; reopen November 29
- Christmas Holiday: December 19 - Jan 2; reopen January 3 2012
Procedures & Rules:
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.
Newsletter: 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.
Calendar and Events
Upcoming Events
Annual Family History Conference: May 5, 2012
Class Schedule
"Beginning Genealogy"
A free 4-session class, taught by Lorraine Minor
Class 1 - Getting Started in Genealogy
September 17th, 9:30 - 11:30 Lecture
Learn the genealogical research process, how to record and evaluate information, cite sources used, maintain a research calendar and develop a research plan.
Class 2 - US Census Research
October 22nd, 9:30 - 11:30 Lecture and workshop
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.
Class 3 - Researching on the Internet
November 19th, 9:30 - 11:30 Lecture and workshop
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.
Class 4 - Research Beyond the Internet
December 17th, 9:30-11:30 Lecture and workshop
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.
Classes will be held at the Washington DC Family History Center
10000 Stoneybrook Drive, Kensington, MD 20895
For registration and further information: info@wdcfhc.org; phone: 301-587-0042
Staff Training Meetings
September 18, 2011 at 6:00 p.m.
November 13, 2011 at 6:00 p.m.
Center Resources
Collections
- Family History Library Catalog: This center has the ability to order any of the films and fiche available through the Family History Library Catalog.
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Databases and Software
- 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.
Hardware and Equipment
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Center Services
Staff Research Specialties
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Resources in the Local Area
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Links
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Volunteer at the Center
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