Are you researching family history in Vancouver, Washington and Pacific Northwest? If so, you may want to investigate the many resources offered through the Clark County Genealogical Society and Library located minutes from historic Vancouver, Washington overlooking the Columbia River.
I didn’t expect to find a genealogy library staffed by friendly and helpful volunteers on a recent visit to Vancouver, but I discovered a hidden gem under the large signs on the strip-mall business front. Volunteer William “Bill” Whalley gave me a quick tour and highlights of the CCGS activities and programs. Founded in 1972, the Society runs a busy schedule and offers publications and research services.
Volunteer Bill Whalley greeted me at the Library and gave me a quick tour.
The CCGS Library includes over 8000 items with an emphasis on Washington and Oregon materials. My tour also showed resources from all states and a good-size microfilm collection. In addition, wireless internet and subscription database services are available for users.
The annual CCGS Fall Seminar — Westward Migration — will be held Saturday, 23 November at the Library, and will include sessions on Colonial Migration, Creating a Migration Map, and Finding Your Overland Trail Ancestor in Oregon and Washington Repositories.
You can find more information about the Clark County Genealogical Society and Library at their website, www.ccgs-wa.org. The Library is located at 717 Grand Blvd, Vancouver, WA. See the website for hours and phone numbers.
