General Information
Our general meetings are typically held on the first Saturday of each month. Please visit our website for the exact dates and times.
For the 2024-2025 season, meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom. The schedule of dates and topics is available on our website.
The day begins with a lively learning and sharing session on all aspects of genealogy research at 9:00 a.m. during the "Members Helping Members" segment. At 9:50 a.m., meeting announcements commence, followed by the featured speaker's presentation at 10:00 a.m. (All times are Central Time Zone).
We welcome guests to join us and be a part of our genealogy community.
About Northwest Suburban Genealogy Society
Founded in 1977, the Northwest Suburban Genealogy Society (NWSGS) is based in Mount Prospect, Illinois, northwest of Chicago. Our members share a primary interest in family history and genealogical research.
While initially a local organization, our membership now extends across the United States and even overseas, bringing together individuals passionate about exploring their ancestral roots. The core purposes of NWSGS are:
- Promoting the study of genealogy and history
- Organizing educational programs and workshops
- Contributing to the preservation and growth of genealogical and historical collections through collaboration with local libraries and institutions
- Providing assistance to members in tracing their family histories
Our monthly meetings feature renowned speakers sharing their expertise on various genealogy-related topics. Members benefit from an informative monthly newsletter, opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts, and the potential to discover new relatives through our vibrant community.
Our History
In 1976, a genealogical research class taught by Carol Rademacher at a High School District 214 continuing education program sparked an interest among participants to further their learning. Under the leadership of Harold Weary, they organized a council of genealogists, holding their first meeting at the Mount Prospect Community Center on October 28, 1976.
The bylaws approved in February 1977 officially established the Northwest Suburban Council of Genealogists (NWSCG), distinguishing it from similar groups in Chicago and Wilmette. Membership grew rapidly, reaching 22 in February 1977, 55 in April, and 65 by June of the same year. That summer, NWSCG became an incorporated organization with an IRS number.
Early Activities - The group regularly convened to hear informative speakers. Over the years, members offered numerous genealogical workshops for libraries and organizations, created exhibits, indexed local births, deaths, and marriages, conducted cemetery readings, hosted book fairs, sold Entertainment discount books, and even sponsored winning candidates for the Mount Prospect Plaza Charity Fairs in 1978 and 1979.
Collaboration with Mount Prospect Public Library
NWSCG maintained a close relationship with the Mount Prospect Public Library. In 1977, the library established a special collection of genealogical materials, which NWSCG and its members have contributed to through numerous donations. Starting in January 1978, NWSCG members began volunteering in the genealogy room for a few hours per week. In November 1988, the genealogy collection was named after Harold Weary, who had volunteered many hours of service to the library. The collection and volunteer programs continue to this day.
Meeting Locations - From 1976 to 1988, the Mount Prospect Public Library provided a meeting space for the organization. Meetings were held at John Hersey High School in Arlington Heights from 1988 to 1997, and at the Forest View Educational Center in Arlington Heights from 1997 to 2011. Starting in August 2011, meetings took place at the Arlington Heights Senior Center. With the pandemic, all meetings have transitioned to be held virtually via Zoom.
Revitalization and Growth - In 2013, officers held a series of meetings to revitalize the organization. Among other changes, the group changed its name to the Northwest Suburban Genealogy Society (NWSGS) and raised dues to provide funds for engaging speakers. These changes led to an increase in membership, which has grown to almost 200 members.