American-French Genealogical Society

American-French Genealogical Society, a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization located in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. Genealogy and history are tools we use to connect generations.

Mission Statement
The mission of the American-French Genealogical Society is to:
 * Collect, preserve and publish cultural, genealogical, historical and biographical matter relating to Americans of French and French Canadian descent
 * Play an active part in the preservation of French and French Canadian culture and heritage; and highlight the role that they have played in the history of North America
 * Maintain an educational, research and cultural center
 * Conduct periodic educational programs and conferences to explore cultural, genealogical, and historical topics
 * Disseminate cultural, genealogical, historical, and biographical information to members and the general public

Contact Information
E-mail: [mailto:info@afgs.org AFGS]



Address: 78 Earle Street                Woonsocket, Rhode Island 02895-0870 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 830                              Woonsocket, Rhode Island

Telephone: 401.765.6141

Hours:


 * Monday 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
 * Tuesday 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
 * Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.


 * Closed on Saturdays in July


 * Twitter: @AmFrGenSoc
 * Facebook: AFGS Facebook Page

Benefits of American-French Genealogical Society

 * Access to the research library and collections
 * Access to Je Me Souviens, a digital magazine filled with resources for genealogists, research stories, new member listings, tips and facts
 * Access to a members-only section of our website containing genealogical research resources, archives of the Je Me Souviens, and other useful material
 * The right to attend the annual business meeting where members are informed of Society activities
 * New members who visit our library receive individual assistance and training from experienced and highly competent staff members
 * Members unable to conduct their own research may use the library resources through the Research Committee. A staff of experienced researchers is available to conduct research at low member rates

History of the Society
American-French Genealogical Society concept took shape with a visit to Montreal, Quebec, Canada. History of AFGS

Education: Workshops and Speakers
Presentations by guest speakers are made possible through funding from the LeFoyer Endowment Fund. Current schedule: Workshops and Speakers

American-French Genealogical Society French Canadian Hall of Fame
The American-French Genealogical Society’s French Canadian Hall of Fame was established in 2003 as part of our organization’s 25th Anniversary celebration. The Hall was created to recognize individuals and organizations with French Canadian roots or connections who have made significant contributions to their community, state or nation through their occupation and/or public service. AFGS Hall of Fame

Acadian Heritage Section
Today, Acadia is not a country, but a common bond shared by people of its heritage. Our Acadian Heritage Section contains many of the resources and links available for further research. Acadian Heritage

Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have only French Canadian Resources? ''We are a primary source for French Canadian research and have a large selection of other data depending on the source. For example, state vital records, church records, and funeral home records would include all records and not just French Canadian. Is there help for me to research other nationalities?  Yes. American-French Genealogical Society is an affiliate of the FamilySearch Library. There are a number of volunteers who can help you to research different nationalities. Do I need to read French?  Most vital records are in English. Quebec microfilm records are mostly in French or Latin. Normally, someone is at the library that can translate for you. Is there someone in the library to aid me if I do visit the library?  Volunteers are normally available to help with your visit.  Is there someone to show me how to use the microfilm?  There are volunteers who will show you the steps to access the microfilms and how to search within them.  Can I bring my electronic devices to the library?  American-French Genealogical Society has free Wi-Fi available. Notebooks, laptops, tablets, hand held scanners, cameras are allowed in the library (no flash). Cell phones may be brought into the library, however, please be considerate of other researchers and either turn off the phone or place it in silent mode. Cell phone conversations are not allowed in the library. Can I use a flash drive or CD/DVD in your computers?  Sorry but no item can be plugged into our computers.  Can we bring a group to the library?  Yes, however if it is a large group (over 5) we would appreciate notification ahead of time to make sure that we have researchers to help.  What is the cost to use the library?  American-French Genealogical Society members have full use of the library. For non-members the fee is $5.00 per visit. Are food or refreshments available?  Food or beverages including bottled water are not allowed in the library area. The lunchroom is located off the main lobby adjacent to the lockers. There is a refrigerator and microwave available for your use. While we do not offer food or beverages on site, there are restaurants nearby. 'I am coming from a distance and will only be in the area a few days. Can I use the library if it is not scheduled to be open?' We will make every effort to accommodate members who live outside of the Rhode Island area. Please contact American-French Genealogical Society at least one week before your arrival. Tell us the dates and times you plan to be here and a phone number where you can be reached while you travel. Are there other sites of interest in the area?  American-French Genealogical Society is located in the Blackstone Heritage Corridor and a number of interesting places are available including the Museum of Work & Culture. For a list of other sites of interests throughout Woonsocket and Rhode Island's Blackstone Valley, visit Tour Blackstone Valley''.

Research Links on FamilySearch
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 * Acadian Immigration