About the Northwest Suburban Genealogy Society

Come join the adventure of discovery.

Founded in 1977 and based in Mount Prospect, Illinois, the Northwest Suburban Genealogy Society brings together people who share a strong interest in family history and genealogical research.

What began as a local organization now includes members from across the United States and overseas. Whether you are just getting started or have been researching for years, NWSGS offers learning, community, and resources to help you move forward.

Meeting Info About NWSGS Our History Contact & Links

Who We Are

NWSGS was founded in 1977 and is based in Mount Prospect, Illinois, northwest of Chicago.

Our members share a primary interest in family history and genealogical research. While NWSGS began as a local organization, our membership now reaches across the country and overseas.

We are a society built around education, collaboration, and helping people make progress in their research.

Core Purposes

  • Promote the study of genealogy and history
  • Organize educational programs and workshops
  • Support the preservation and growth of genealogical and historical collections through collaboration with libraries and institutions
  • Provide assistance to members tracing their family histories

Why People Join

Members benefit from an informative monthly newsletter, opportunities to connect with fellow genealogy enthusiasts, and the possibility of discovering new relatives through a vibrant and active community.

NWSGS is a place to learn from expert speakers, share ideas with others, and continue building your skills over time.

Good Fit For

  • Beginning family historians
  • Experienced genealogists
  • People who enjoy learning from speakers and workshops
  • Researchers looking for community and support
  • Anyone curious about local, national, or international family history research

Our History

NWSGS has a long history of education, volunteer service, and community involvement. Here is a readable overview of how the organization developed.

1976 to 1977: How It Began

In 1976, a genealogical research class taught by Carol Rademacher through High School District 214 continuing education inspired participants to continue learning together.

Under the leadership of Harold Weary, the group organized and held its first meeting on October 28, 1976, at the Mount Prospect Community Center.

Bylaws approved in February 1977 officially established the Northwest Suburban Council of Genealogists.

Early Growth and Activities

Membership grew quickly during 1977. The organization hosted speakers, offered workshops, created exhibits, indexed local records, conducted cemetery readings, hosted book fairs, and supported community charity events.

Partnership with the Mount Prospect Public Library

NWSGS maintained a close relationship with the Mount Prospect Public Library, contributing to the genealogy collection and volunteering in the genealogy room starting in 1978.

In 1988, the library’s genealogy collection was named after Harold Weary in recognition of his service.

Meeting Locations Over Time

Meetings were held at the Mount Prospect Public Library from 1976 to 1988, at John Hersey High School from 1988 to 1997, at Forest View Educational Center from 1997 to 2011, and then at the Arlington Heights Senior Center beginning in August 2011.

With the pandemic, meetings transitioned to Zoom.

2013 and Beyond

In 2013, officers worked to revitalize the organization. The group adopted the name Northwest Suburban Genealogy Society, adjusted dues to support stronger programming, and continued growing.

Those changes helped expand membership to nearly 200 members.

Get to Know NWSGS

Whether you want to attend a meeting, explore guest membership, or become a paid member, we would be glad to welcome you.

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