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SCGS Blog
Welcome to the official blog of the Southern California Genealogical Society. Subscribe to learn about upcoming webinars, educational opportunities, events, speakers, genealogists, members, family history, DNA news, and, of course, SCGS.
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Meet SCGS at the Los Angeles Archives Bazaar!
Meet officers from the Southern California Genealogical Society at the 20th Los Angeles Archives Bazaar on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Cal State LA.
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Nov 8, 20252 min read
Red Devil Days: Memories of Southern California’s Backyard Fun and Community Light Shows
A Southern Californian reflects on the Fourth of Julys of her childhood, when backyard fireworks were popular.
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Jun 30, 20257 min read
The Family Reunion That Almost Wasn’t
Discover all the planning and preparations it takes to reunite relatives.
Beth Steury
Jun 29, 20256 min read
Red, White, Then & Now: A Patriotic Look at Independence Day Traditions
Join us for a look at how we've celebrated the Fourth of July since 1776.
Aimee Rose-Haynes
Jun 24, 20255 min read
Happy 249th Birthday to the U.S.A.!
Discover fascinating facts about the founding of the U.S. and trivia about the Fourth of July.
Beth Steury
Jun 24, 20253 min read
“Vouloir, c’est pouvoir”: Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way
Join us for a look at the rich history of the French in America.
Kate Penney Howard
Jun 22, 20253 min read
Celebrate Juneteenth 2025 in Southern California by Attending One of These Events
Celebrate Juneteenth in Southern California! Discover events in recognition of America's youngest federal holiday.
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Jun 12, 20252 min read
You Have Plans: SCGS's Summer Webinar Series
Register now for SCGS's Summer Webinar series, featuring five top genealogists.
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Jun 1, 20253 min read
Italian Citizenship by Descent: What You Need to Know
Join SCGS's Italian Interest Group on Saturday, March 15, as they host Italian citizenship-by-descent expert Marco Permunian from Italy.
Rocco Hindman
Apr 4, 20253 min read
Mark Your Calendar: Upcoming Genealogical Conferences and Events You Don't Want to Miss
Register now for a spring 2025 in-person or virtual genealogy conference.
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Mar 11, 20252 min read
We've Got Plans for You: SCGS's Spring Webinar Series
SCGS's Webinar Series features a half dozen top genealogists presenting diverse topics online, March through June.
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Mar 7, 20253 min read
GSHA-SC Hosts John P. Schmal at Its February Meeting
The Genealogical Society of Hispanic America-So Cal hosted John Schmal at its February meeting in Burbank.
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Feb 20, 20251 min read
Lunch & Learn Hosts Leslie Anderson on 'Bryans Brothers, U.S. Colored Troops'
SCGS's Lunch & Learn hosts Leslie Anderson on Feb. 8, presenting "The Bryans Brothers & the U.S. Colored Troops."
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Feb 4, 20252 min read
GSHA-SC Hosts John P. Schmal, Who Will Discuss Searching for Indigenous California Roots
Historian and genealogist John P. Schmal will discuss “Searching for Your Indigenous California Roots” at a hybrid meeting hosted by the...
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Jan 22, 20253 min read
SCGS Library in Burbank Closed Due to Wildfires; Will Reopen Jan. 18
Due to the catastrophic and unprecedented fires in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, the Southern California Genealogical Society Library...
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Jan 14, 20252 min read
SCGS Sends Message of Hope and Resilience to Southern Californians Affected by January 2025 Wildfires
Our hearts are with members and everyone impacted by Southern California's unprecedented fires and winds. We hope for the protection of...
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Jan 8, 20251 min read
Here's How to Watch Season 11 of PBS's 'Finding Your Roots"
One of the best things about starting the new year is knowing there's a new season of Finding Your Roots to watch. Now in its eleventh...
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Jan 7, 20253 min read
SCGS's French-Canadian Heritage Society Shares Family Recipes, Plans Ancestor Cookbook
For years, SCGS's special-interest group, the French-Canadian Heritage Society, has held a potluck lunch during its October meetings....
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Dec 11, 20241 min read
President Louise Ratliff's Year-End Message
SCGS President reflects on 2024 with a special message to members and the genealogical community.
Louise Ratliff
Dec 10, 20241 min read
Kicking Off Member2Member with Genealogy Q&A Break-Out Sessions at December Meeting & Party
SCGS's first Member2Member program will try to answer some of our members genealogical questions.
Lisa Hallett Taylor
Dec 4, 20243 min read
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