Community Corner
Connecticut SAR to host Genealogy Basics Workshop
For most of us, the people who
lived during the American Revolution are largely anonymous, apart from a few
famous names like George Washington and Nathan Hale. But for the members of the
Connecticut Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, our country’s
founding generation is well known. Says Stephen Shaw, Connecticut SAR President,
“Our members are history fans. We’ve spent a lot of time learning about who did
what during our country’s struggle for independence. We keep their memory alive
through research, reenactments, publications, special events, and by running
our three museums free of charge.”
For those
who would like to know more about the Revolutionary generation and the basics
of genealogical research, Connecticut SAR is sponsoring a free workshop at West
Hartford Public Library, 20 South Main St., West Hartford CT, from 1:30-3:30
p.m. “Genealogy is most people’s first introduction to historical research,”
says Mr. Shaw. “It’s fascinating to learn where your family comes from, and to
make surprise discoveries and uncover new connections. This workshop will
provide an overview of how genealogy works, and offer specific strategies on
how to find information from the 18th century.”
Since 1889,
Connecticut SAR has been collecting the names of patriot soldiers and public
officials who served from 1775-1783. These men’s service has been officially
documented by the organization for the purpose of membership applications, but
can also be used for any kind of genealogical research. For example, both Boy
and Girl Scouts offer badges and patches for genealogy projects. Anyone who
wants to know more about personal family history can benefit as well. According
to Ancestry.com, about 60% of the American public has Revolutionary-era
ancestors in their family tree.
