CSAGSI February, 1997 Meeting
On February 15th, more than 140 members and guests (the largest turnout to date)
gathered as Joan Hemzacek presented,
"Tracking your Czech and Slovak Immigrant family through Home and Local Sources."
Evelyn Fergle recalls:
Hinsdale Illinois' Joan Hemzacek -- an active volunteer at the
Federal District Archives in Chicago -- was the featured program speaker at the
February 15th meeting of CSAGSI at the Helen Plum Library in Lombard.
The SRO-crowd listened attentively as she discussed local Czech and Slovak sources.
Joan brought a number of handouts pertaining to the use of the
District Archive records on naturalization, passenger lists, etc...,
but emphasized first looking in the home for any papers immigrants may have brought
with them such as a "Krestli List" or baptismal certificate.
These papers, she said, might likely be found in an old attic box and offer a
wealth of information on parents, grandparents, villages of birth, etc...
Information like this can start a very rewarding search of family history.
Joan also brought many books from the CSA Heritage Museum and Library collection
for people to view like church anniversary books, gazateers, books on Czech and
Slovak organizations, etc...
A hospitality table set up by members Louise Rokos and Catherine Hartzel -- and
supplied with donations from many members -- was enjoyed by all in attendance
during the social/networking hour.
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Last updated: February 25, 1997