Illinois State Genealogical Society Blog

Registration for the CELTIC CONNECTIONS CONFERENCE 2020 is now open! The conference, co-sponsored by Irish Genealogical Society International and The Irish Ancestral Research Association, will be held at the Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel (601 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, Illinois) on July 31-August 1, 2020. Read the conference brochure at the website and register online. ISGS is part of the Celtic Connections "Cairde" (Friends), which means that c urrent ISGS members will pay the discounted "Member" price on conference registration! See the conference brochure for more information! While you’re at the website, visit the Lodging page to book hotel reservations at the CCC 2020 special rate of $129 per night and consider the appealing pre-conference activities on Thursday, July 30! Don't delay -- sign up now! © 2020, copyright Illinois State Genealogical Society

The Volkel Hall of Fame is on display at the Illinois State Archives in Springfield. DID YOU KNOW that the ISGS Honors and Awards Committee is always looking for nominees who have made significant contributions to Illinois genealogy?   ISGS offers several award categories, including: Community Service Award: This award may be given to an individual, company, or institution for service or contributions to genealogy. Nominations may be made by local genealogical or historical societies. Special Recognition Award: This award may be given to an individual for the promotion of genealogy in general or for having been a major influence toward the success of the nominating organization. Nominations may be made by local societies. Youth Award: Students are eligible for this award for a genealogical project. Nominations may be made on the suggestion of a teacher, advisor, or local society. Distinguished Service Award: A national figure may be honored for exceptional contr

   In addition to memberships for individuals, ISGS offers an Associate Membership to genealogical societies, historical societies or other related formal organizations within the state of Illinois. Today, we'll profile the Afro-American Genealogical and Historical Society of Chicago (AAGHSC). The mission of AAGHSC is to:  Encourage and promote the study of African American genealogy and history Encourage and instruct members in genealogical research Conduct workshops, seminars or conferences annually Locate, preserve, index and publish private and public genealogical materials, articles and projects Publish African American Genealogical information in a regular newsletter or other publications  Preserve and perpetuate the records of African American ancestors Assist and support libraries, programs and organizations that promote African American genealogy and history for adults and children. Current AAGHSC President is Roma Stewart, J.D., and Past President