Genealogy Jottings

Today I received yet another helpful e-mail reminder about upcoming genealogy events in the Denver area. When viewing this message, I am reminded that volunteerism plays a huge role in the genealogy world. People step up to run local societies, transcribe records, and post information about genealogy online.

Over the years, I have done some genealogy volunteer work, mostly through the Colorado Genealogical Society:

• I served on the Extractions Committee of that group to create a Bride’s index to Colorado marriages and a transcription of records of the Rogers Mortuary in Denver,
• I held the offices of Recording Secretary and Vice-President of the Society,
• I worked with a group from the National Genealogical Society to index the 1940 U.S. census, focusing on Minnesota records (I figured I could read all those Norwegian names).

In recent years I have stepped back from Society work. Attending Board meetings has become prohibitive because it requires a 45-minute drive through rush hour traffic and then paying to park. Instead, I now contribute money to the Society for acquiring materials for the Denver Public Library and the Denver branch of the National Archives.

I could do more transcribing for Family Search. When my life with grandchildren settles down a bit, I probably will devote some time each week to transcribing a few records. After all, I know that the genealogy world runs because of volunteers.

How are you helping?

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