FGS 2011 Conference

Federation of Genealogical Societies 2011 Conference

"Pathways to the Heartland"

Springfield, Illinois September 7-10, 2011

Local host: Illinois State Genealogical Society

About
Since its founding in 1976, the Federation of Genealogical Societies (FGS) has been providing educational opportunities for those interested in genealogy and family history in its support of genealogical and historical societies throughout the United States.

This year's conference, "Pathways to the Heartland" offers an exciting opportunity for anyone interested in researching their family history. Individual sessions are designed to balance the needs of genealogist at all levels, exploring a variety of records, strategies, and other tools available to genealogists. Wednesday's Focus on Societies includes sessions dedicated to members and leaders of genealogical and historical societies. In addition, special events, such as the FGS 35th Anniversary Celebration, Spotlight on Societies, and daily sponsored lectures provide an excellent environment to meet and network with others interested in family history and genealogy.

KeyNote Speakers
FGS 2011 will feature the following keynote speakers:


 * David Rencher - AG, CG, FIGRS, FUGA, is Chief Genealogical Officer for FamilySearch and a former president of FGS.
 * David S. Ferriero - is the tenth Archivist of the United States. He previously served as Andrew W. Mellon Director of the New York Public Libraries.
 * Harold Holzer - is one of the country's leading authorities on Abraham Lincoln and the political culture of the Civil War era. A prolific writer and lecturer, and frequent guest on television, he was appointed co-chairman of the United States Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission by President Clinton and in 2008 received the National Humanities Medal from President Bush.

Wednesday, September 7

 * An Old Fashioned Prairie Social A Focus on Societies event sponsored by FamilySearch and presented by the Illinois State Genealogical Society.

Thursday, September 8

 * Society Showcase Join FGS member societies and conference attendees in the exhibit hall for an evening of extended hours, door-prizes and networking.

Friday, September 9

 * FGS 35th Anniversary Celebration Celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Federation of Genealogical Societies during the FGS/ISGS 2011 Conference! Join the Federation of Genealogical Societies for a fun-filled evening of entertainment, learning, and celebration as we recognize the past, present, and future of FGS and its service to the genealogical community at the 35th Anniversary Celebration Gala.

Sunday, September 11

 * Farewell Brunch. Join fellow genealogists for a buffet style Farewell Brunch at the Hilton Springfield.

Conference Courses
View the FGS 2011 Program at the FGS 2011 site.

Exhibitors
View the FGS 2011 exhibitor list at the FGS 2011 site.

View the floor plan map at the FGS 2011 site.

Attendees

 * Attendees of FGS 2011

News Feeds

 * Recent Blog Posts about FGS 2011
 * Twitter Feed for #FGS2011 Hashtag