The Blaine County Journal News-Opinion - We've Got The County Covered

The Harlem Public Library will offer a four-part beginning genealogy class the last two weeks of September and the first two weeks of October. Instructing the class will be Sylvia D. Murray, Accredited Genealogist for Midwestern and Great Plains States by the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists. Murray has been a researcher for over 41 years and has taught college level genealogy classes for 36 years. She has also taught Adult Education genealogy classes for several years.

Week one of the class will cover how to use the free site “Family Search,” understanding terms, where to start and what information to record. Week two will cover vital records including birth, death, marriage, wills and church records. In week three the class will include census records and week four participants will learn how to use military and pension records. Murray’s special interest is helping Native Americans prove their Degree of Indian Blood or Quantum. She believes “Heritage, no matter which ethnic group, gives an individual a sense of belonging and self-worth. This is a very important attribute for our children and future generations.”

The class will be offered on Tuesday evenings, beginning September 20, from 6:30-8:30 at the library. Those interested in attending are asked to contact the library by September 16. The class will be limited to 12 participants who must attend all four sessions. Class members may bring their own laptops or tablets or they may use the library’s devices. There is no fee to take the class.

For more information or to sign up for the class please contact the library at 353-2712.