Spring is upon us, the coronavirus vaccine is here, and life is slowly returning to normal. The pandemic is sure to have honed our online research skills, and I’m sure you’ll be glad to be able to research in person once more as the archives and state library are now offering appointments for in-person research. It is also conference season, with the National Genealogical Society hosting its annual convention virtually in May. Wake County Genealogical Society’s own Diane L. Richard and David M. McCorkle will be presenting and are not to be missed!

As you may have noticed, this issue has a new cover that we are proud to debut, along with our new logo. This issue of Wake Treasures is full of continued series, such as the final part of Carey Faisons “Railroads, Hortons, and Faisons,” the 1897 Raleigh Colored School Census, Wake County Records Batch #3, Wake County Records of Slaves and Free Negroes, 1721-1829 and Soldiers Home records, while also introducing new content from Debra Blake, a secretary’s report from the Mordecai family, and Trade Licenses of 1876.

Without the help of an array of volunteers this journal wouldn’t be possible. Please consider submitting your Wake family history, transcribing, or selecting content as the Content Curator. If you are interested in contributing to the journal, please contact me at journal@wakecogen.org. Many thanks to our contributors, transcribers, indexer, and proofreader!
 
Hope you enjoy, Donna Shackle, Editor 

 

What is a SIG (Special Interest Group), you ask?  Well, it’s NOT a class nor a series of lectures nor instructor-led training.  Instead, it is a collaborative format focused on a specific theme where members can share tips and tricks to help each other improve their skills in performing research or using genealogical tools.  SIG participation is one of the many benefits of being a WCGS member!  

 

Sue Olmsted is coordinating a new SIG for those of us who have German speaking ancestors.  The German Genes SIG has its kick-off meeting on June 19th.  Just recently WCGS started another new Special Interest Group (SIG) for society members who are users of FTM 2019. If you are interested in learning more about either of these SIGs, login to the website and click on the "SIG and Other Benefits" tab.

 

At the moment there is strong interest in forming a Beginning DNA SIG, if a WCGS member will step forward to form and coordinate such a group.  Or if you are a member of WCGS and have another theme which you feel deserves a SIG, send your suggestion to the WCGS President. If you're interested in a topic, then others may be too!   
 

Do you need a little help with a question about genealogy software or databases? Do you need ideas for where to look for more records? 
 

Wake County Genealogical Society will continue the GenHelp virtual sessions to provide free genealogy assistance to hobbyists. Mark your calendar for the first Thursday of each month at 6:30pm ET. 

 

You will have an opportunity to ask questions and share knowledge during the 90-minute session. The session will be moderated. Please note this program will not include research requests or queries. All assistance will be given only within the time constraints of the monthly virtual session.

It is not necessary to be a member of WCGS to participate. There is no cost, but you must register.  The  next session for 2021 is Oct 7, 6:30pm. Visit the WCGS Events page to register for one of our upcoming sessions!