Van Zandt County Genealogical
The Genealogy Library has the following hours:
Monday: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (closed Monday afternoon)
Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Thursday: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (closed Friday afternoon)
Saturday: 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.
Monday: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (closed Monday afternoon)
Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Thursday: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (closed Friday afternoon)
Saturday: 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.
Welcome to the website of the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society and the Van Zandt County Library of Genealogy and Local History! See contact information at the bottom of this page, including for other organizations that provide historical and genealogical help. Our most recent events, and upcoming activities can be found on this page, below. Use our navigational toolbar above to get to know us, including our About page regarding our purposes and mission.
Be sure and keep up with us also on our Facebook site.
Be sure and keep up with us also on our Facebook site.
Upcoming Events:
Van Zandt County Genealogical Society
NEW TIME! Saturday, April 15, 9:00 a.m., at the Huffer Cemetery in Van Zandt County: Celebration and grave marking ceremony for Jacob Huffer, an early settler of Van Zandt County, citizen of the Republic of Texas and a War of 1812 veteran. His son, Samuel Huffer, will also be honored. The Huffer Cemetery is not a well-known site, as it is on private property. Wear sturdy shoes and be ready to do some walking! We appreciate the generosity of the landowners who have cooperated in this event to honor our county’s early settlers. This ceremony will take place on the same day as the Spring Genealogy Workshop: It’s a great day of learning and celebration of our history. (More information on the location of the Huffer Cemetery will be announced later.)
NEW TIME! Saturday, April 15, from 12:30 - 4:00 p.m., at the main county library 317 First Monday Lane, Canton: SPRING GENEALOGY WORKSHOP. Don't miss it! This yearly free event focuses on basics of family research, but has plenty of information for experienced genealogists. Donna Toups, genealogist and volunteer at the Wills Point Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) Family History Center, will be the presenter. Bring your laptop or other electronic device; this workshop will include computer research and the old-fashioned kind. No membership required. Refreshments will be served. We hope you'll be so inspired by the workshop, that you'll come with us at 2:00 p.m. the same day for the Huffer Cemetery event--see immediately below.
Sunday, May 7, 12:00 noon: at the Four Mile Cemetery, just behind the Four Mile Lutheran Church. (Address: 460 Van Zandt County Road 2607, Mabank, TX.) Celebration and grave marking for Henrietta Reierson, one of the earliest settlers of the county and a Norwegian immigrant. The celebration is sponsored by the Four Mile church, who have generously allowed us to join the event.
Saturday, May 27, 2:00 p.m. at the main Van Zandt County Library, 317 First Monday Lane, in Canton: Regular meeting of the Genealogical Society. The program will be presented by “The Genealogy Detective” Tamara Hallo, MLS. Ms. Hallo, an educator, librarian and genealogist, will share her stories of her own family research and her experience in helping her clients. As always with our regular meetings, it is free, no membership is required, and refreshments will be served.
NEW TIME! Saturday, April 15, from 12:30 - 4:00 p.m., at the main county library 317 First Monday Lane, Canton: SPRING GENEALOGY WORKSHOP. Don't miss it! This yearly free event focuses on basics of family research, but has plenty of information for experienced genealogists. Donna Toups, genealogist and volunteer at the Wills Point Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) Family History Center, will be the presenter. Bring your laptop or other electronic device; this workshop will include computer research and the old-fashioned kind. No membership required. Refreshments will be served. We hope you'll be so inspired by the workshop, that you'll come with us at 2:00 p.m. the same day for the Huffer Cemetery event--see immediately below.
Sunday, May 7, 12:00 noon: at the Four Mile Cemetery, just behind the Four Mile Lutheran Church. (Address: 460 Van Zandt County Road 2607, Mabank, TX.) Celebration and grave marking for Henrietta Reierson, one of the earliest settlers of the county and a Norwegian immigrant. The celebration is sponsored by the Four Mile church, who have generously allowed us to join the event.
Saturday, May 27, 2:00 p.m. at the main Van Zandt County Library, 317 First Monday Lane, in Canton: Regular meeting of the Genealogical Society. The program will be presented by “The Genealogy Detective” Tamara Hallo, MLS. Ms. Hallo, an educator, librarian and genealogist, will share her stories of her own family research and her experience in helping her clients. As always with our regular meetings, it is free, no membership is required, and refreshments will be served.
Become a member of the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society
Support local county/Texas history, make friends, achieve your family research goals even faster! Dues are $15 per year for an individual membership and $18 per year for a family membership. Members receive our award-winning quarterly publication Our Heritage. Call us during business hours (M-F 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Sat. 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) at 903-567-5012, or email us at vanzandtgensoc@gmail.com Or to pay by credit card via this website, go to our Store page, or click here. For information on membership and its benefits, go to our Membership page.
The Genealogy Library, located at 250 E. Grove St., Canton, Texas, is here to assist anyone wishing to do genealogy/family research or historical research. Our Library has computer terminals with access to services such as Ancestry, and the public is welcome. (You don't have to be a member of the Genealogical Society.) See our new hours, above.
We also take calls and emails for short research requests, at 903-567-5012, during business hours. Links to our email address and Facebook page, as well as other useful links, can be found at the bottom of this page. For a 5-minute virtual tour of the library by our Genealogical Society President, Carrie Woolverton, click on the video below:
We also take calls and emails for short research requests, at 903-567-5012, during business hours. Links to our email address and Facebook page, as well as other useful links, can be found at the bottom of this page. For a 5-minute virtual tour of the library by our Genealogical Society President, Carrie Woolverton, click on the video below:
Van Zandt County's Birthday: Looking forward to 175 more years
L-R: Rep. Bryan Slaton & Sen. Bob Hall speaking. (Gen. Soc. President Woolverton seated.)
Van Zandt County is 175 years old, and the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society, with the help of lots of individuals and organizations, threw a party for the occasion. The people of the county, including many elected officials and plenty of other Van Zandt county citizens, turned out to celebrate on March 25 at the Blackwell House Museum and the Sarah Norman Library. Stories and refreshments were in abundance, and perfect spring weather seemed a good omen for the next 175 years.
The crowd was greeted by Stevan Steadham, Mayor of Edgewood, who opened the festivities with positive remarks about the county’s past and future. The invocation was made by Father Marc Dobson of St. Justin’s Episcopal Church, Canton.
State Senator Bob Hall and State Representative Bryan Slaton read a resolution they had written for the celebration, and Van Zandt County Judge Andy Reese read a proclamation passed by the Van Zandt County Commissioner’s Court honoring county. Commissioner Chad LaPrade and Sheriff Joe Carter also attended, along with many members of the county’s historical organizations and lineage societies, including Elvis Allen of the Van Zandt County Historical Commission.
Canton Mayor Lou Ann Everett provided plenty of entertaining stories about the county’s historic past. She emphasized the contributions of the many veterans from Van Zandt, telling stories of specific individuals from the wars the nation has lived through. Pat Thibodeau, Genealogical Society member as well as a member of many lineage societies, gave a presentation on Elvira Engledow, a very early settler of Van Zandt County, who endured hardships and raised children and grandchildren, including a granddaughter who later owned the Blackwell House.
Attendees got free tours of the Blackwell House, the oldest residence in Canton, which is now a museum. Docents for the museum provided assistance prior to the celebration and were on hand to give tours to the public. Sarah Norman Library staff also were of great assistance in preparing for the event.
Carrie Wilson Woolverton, President of the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society, hosted the ceremony, thanking all the volunteers and organizations who made the Van Zandt County 175th birthday party a success.
Sponsors of the event were: Captain James Burleson Chapter U.S. Daughters of 1812; James Pinckney Henderson Chapter, Daughters of the Republic of Texas; Jesse Miller Foster Chapter, United Daughters of the Confederacy; Jose Francisco Calahorra Chapter, Daughters of the American Colonists; Martin’s Hundred Chapter, National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century; Neches River Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution; Salt Palace Museum, Grand Saline; Van Zandt County Genealogical Society; Van Zandt County Library of Genealogy and Local History; and the Van Zandt County Historical Commission.
The crowd was greeted by Stevan Steadham, Mayor of Edgewood, who opened the festivities with positive remarks about the county’s past and future. The invocation was made by Father Marc Dobson of St. Justin’s Episcopal Church, Canton.
State Senator Bob Hall and State Representative Bryan Slaton read a resolution they had written for the celebration, and Van Zandt County Judge Andy Reese read a proclamation passed by the Van Zandt County Commissioner’s Court honoring county. Commissioner Chad LaPrade and Sheriff Joe Carter also attended, along with many members of the county’s historical organizations and lineage societies, including Elvis Allen of the Van Zandt County Historical Commission.
Canton Mayor Lou Ann Everett provided plenty of entertaining stories about the county’s historic past. She emphasized the contributions of the many veterans from Van Zandt, telling stories of specific individuals from the wars the nation has lived through. Pat Thibodeau, Genealogical Society member as well as a member of many lineage societies, gave a presentation on Elvira Engledow, a very early settler of Van Zandt County, who endured hardships and raised children and grandchildren, including a granddaughter who later owned the Blackwell House.
Attendees got free tours of the Blackwell House, the oldest residence in Canton, which is now a museum. Docents for the museum provided assistance prior to the celebration and were on hand to give tours to the public. Sarah Norman Library staff also were of great assistance in preparing for the event.
Carrie Wilson Woolverton, President of the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society, hosted the ceremony, thanking all the volunteers and organizations who made the Van Zandt County 175th birthday party a success.
Sponsors of the event were: Captain James Burleson Chapter U.S. Daughters of 1812; James Pinckney Henderson Chapter, Daughters of the Republic of Texas; Jesse Miller Foster Chapter, United Daughters of the Confederacy; Jose Francisco Calahorra Chapter, Daughters of the American Colonists; Martin’s Hundred Chapter, National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century; Neches River Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution; Salt Palace Museum, Grand Saline; Van Zandt County Genealogical Society; Van Zandt County Library of Genealogy and Local History; and the Van Zandt County Historical Commission.
March 18 Genealogy Librarian Training: We Love Our Volunteers!
New recruits as well as experienced volunteer librarians came to the Van Zandt Library of Genealogy and Local History on March 18 to learn and to share knowledge of operating this impressive facility, which is open 6 days per week. Even the seasoned librarians learned a lot. We were pleased to see more people interested in helping keep the Library going as it has since the early 1980s.
The genealogy library, although affiliated with the main Sarah Norman Library, is at a separate location, at 250 E. Grove Street in Canton. It is a reference library, open to the public, providing reference books on history and genealogy that people can study, copy, take pictures of. (We have a copier/scanner, or researchers can take pictures of information.) Researchers have the assistance of the all-volunteer staff. There are computer terminals and free access to Ancestry.com and to the internet, for the public to use in their genealogy or historical studies. There is also a wealth of information available on microfilm, such as old local newspapers and old county marriage records, with microfilm-reading machines at the library available.
With so many resources at this library, we are always looking for volunteer librarians. All ages are welcome! We have people of all backgrounds; most didn't have any librarian experience when they began. The main requirements are a desire to help the public, and an interest in history and/or family research
Let us know if you want to become a volunteer genealogy librarian. Email us at vanzandtgensoc@gmail.com. Or come by or call the genealogy library and ask a librarian about volunteering, during business hours (Monday, Friday & Saturday 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.) at 250 E. Grove St. in Canton, 903-567-5012.
Thank you!
The genealogy library, although affiliated with the main Sarah Norman Library, is at a separate location, at 250 E. Grove Street in Canton. It is a reference library, open to the public, providing reference books on history and genealogy that people can study, copy, take pictures of. (We have a copier/scanner, or researchers can take pictures of information.) Researchers have the assistance of the all-volunteer staff. There are computer terminals and free access to Ancestry.com and to the internet, for the public to use in their genealogy or historical studies. There is also a wealth of information available on microfilm, such as old local newspapers and old county marriage records, with microfilm-reading machines at the library available.
With so many resources at this library, we are always looking for volunteer librarians. All ages are welcome! We have people of all backgrounds; most didn't have any librarian experience when they began. The main requirements are a desire to help the public, and an interest in history and/or family research
Let us know if you want to become a volunteer genealogy librarian. Email us at vanzandtgensoc@gmail.com. Or come by or call the genealogy library and ask a librarian about volunteering, during business hours (Monday, Friday & Saturday 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.) at 250 E. Grove St. in Canton, 903-567-5012.
Thank you!
DNA Testing: How to get started?
Meeting Feb. 25 shows the way.
Carrie Woolverton, Genealogical Society president, streams the Feb 25 lecture on the Society's Facebook page.
The Van Zandt County Genealogical Society held its regular monthly meeting on Feb. 25, 2023. The program was changed at the last minute, due to the speaker, genealogist Emily Richardson, becoming ill the night before. The substitute program, regarding DNA research, was very informative and enjoyed by all.
Genealogical Society President Carrie Woolverton opened the meeting by expressing the Society's hope for a speedy recovery for Ms. Richardson. She also ran through the long list of future activities for the Genealogical Society, including historic grave marking ceremonies, the free April genealogy workshop (open to members and non-members alike), and in particular the upcoming March 25 meeting, which will include a celebration of the 175th anniversary of Van Zandt County. (See our Upcoming Events list, top of this page, for details.)
First Vice President/Program Chair Tammy Garrett introduced the substitute program for the day, DNA: I've Tested, Now What? The videotaped lecture was provided by Beth Taylor of FamilySearch. It gave a step-by-step tutorial on how to get started, once a family researcher gets his/her DNA results from one of the testing companies (Ancestry, 23 and Me, etc.). Ms. Taylor stressed that researchers often just look at the ethnicity percentages in the inital email that arrives from the testing company, and they don't know how to use all the other data that is available through DNA results. She said the main points to keep in mind are: 1. Really look at the names of the people/relatives (the DNA "matches") whose names appear in one's data. Learning how to group them and see patterns of kinship yields plenty of information. 2. Get in touch with the persons who are the most useful matches, and respond to requests when matches contact you. Collaboration is crucial in DNA research. 3. Consider taking more than one DNA test--there are multiple companies, each with different research tools. And there are different forms of DNA testing, such as yDNA (which tracks only the male line but provides critical information). 4. Use DNA results in conjunction with old-fashioned research, both on paper and from computers. Ms. Taylor noted DNA is not particularly useful if used alone; a researcher must have some grasp of his/her family lines. (Special techniques are available, however, for adopted persons who are using DNA to find biological kin; DNA can yield good results.) 5. Have a research goal, and follow it, when using DNA. While this advice is handy for all research, Ms. Taylor stressed it is very important when a person is using the tremendous amount of data available through DNA testing. Focus is key.
Genealogical Society President Carrie Woolverton opened the meeting by expressing the Society's hope for a speedy recovery for Ms. Richardson. She also ran through the long list of future activities for the Genealogical Society, including historic grave marking ceremonies, the free April genealogy workshop (open to members and non-members alike), and in particular the upcoming March 25 meeting, which will include a celebration of the 175th anniversary of Van Zandt County. (See our Upcoming Events list, top of this page, for details.)
First Vice President/Program Chair Tammy Garrett introduced the substitute program for the day, DNA: I've Tested, Now What? The videotaped lecture was provided by Beth Taylor of FamilySearch. It gave a step-by-step tutorial on how to get started, once a family researcher gets his/her DNA results from one of the testing companies (Ancestry, 23 and Me, etc.). Ms. Taylor stressed that researchers often just look at the ethnicity percentages in the inital email that arrives from the testing company, and they don't know how to use all the other data that is available through DNA results. She said the main points to keep in mind are: 1. Really look at the names of the people/relatives (the DNA "matches") whose names appear in one's data. Learning how to group them and see patterns of kinship yields plenty of information. 2. Get in touch with the persons who are the most useful matches, and respond to requests when matches contact you. Collaboration is crucial in DNA research. 3. Consider taking more than one DNA test--there are multiple companies, each with different research tools. And there are different forms of DNA testing, such as yDNA (which tracks only the male line but provides critical information). 4. Use DNA results in conjunction with old-fashioned research, both on paper and from computers. Ms. Taylor noted DNA is not particularly useful if used alone; a researcher must have some grasp of his/her family lines. (Special techniques are available, however, for adopted persons who are using DNA to find biological kin; DNA can yield good results.) 5. Have a research goal, and follow it, when using DNA. While this advice is handy for all research, Ms. Taylor stressed it is very important when a person is using the tremendous amount of data available through DNA testing. Focus is key.
Special tribute for George Washington’s Birthday:
Feb. 11 DAR George Washington Tea and High School Good Citizen Awards for Van Zandt County
Good Citizen awardees: L-R: Betty Wilson of DAR, Madison Dixon, Luke Griffith, Macy Meroney, Beck Robinson, DAR Regent Sherrie Archer.
The Van Zandt County Genealogical Society is please to report on the recent Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) George Washington Tea, held every year in honor of the President’s Day/George Washington’s Birthday holiday. President’s Day this year is celebrated on February 20, between Lincoln’s Birthday (Feb. 12) and Washington’s (Feb. 22.) Although this was not a Genealogical Society event, it celebrates a crucial time in the nation’s history. The George Washington Tea is also the event at which the Good Citizen Awards are presented by the local DAR to a student from each of the Van Zandt County high schools.
The Good Citizen Award is recognizes and rewards high school seniors who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities. Awardees this year in Van Zandt County were: Beck Robinson of Canton High School, Tristan Smith of Edgewood High, Macy Meroney of Fruitvale High, Luke Griffith of Grand Saline High, Libby Rogers of Martin’s Mill High, Savannah Frey of Van High, and Madison Dixon of Wills Point High.
Parents/relatives, friends and educators joined the students at the celebration, at which the students told of their interests and their plans for the future. Giving out the awards was DAR Good Citizen Chairman Betty Wilson, who spoke of the impressive achievements of the awardees and extended sincere thanks to their families, teachers and school counselors for assisting in the students’ success. Chapter Regent Sherrie Archer noted that several awardees were unable to attend the award ceremony, due to the full schedule of events on Feb. 11, including the University Interscholastic League (UIL) competition. She thanked the students and friends/family who were in attendance.
The program for the event was given by DAR member Pat Thibodeau, who made a very interesting presentation on Martha Dandridge Custis Washington, the wife of George Washington. As the first First Lady of the United States, Mrs. Washington helped set standards and customs that are followed to this day, according to Ms. Thibodeau. She described Mrs. Washington as a humble, hardworking, private person who nevertheless rose to the occasion repeatedly in her life, especially during her husband’s many years leading the Continental Army—she followed him and lived at the various encampments—and during the eight years of Washington’s presidency. George Washington was rightly called the father of his country, but Mrs. Washington was the mother of the country, said Ms. Thibodeau.
Food and drinks were served at the tea, which was attended by members of the Genealogical Society as well as the DAR.
The Good Citizen Award is recognizes and rewards high school seniors who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities. Awardees this year in Van Zandt County were: Beck Robinson of Canton High School, Tristan Smith of Edgewood High, Macy Meroney of Fruitvale High, Luke Griffith of Grand Saline High, Libby Rogers of Martin’s Mill High, Savannah Frey of Van High, and Madison Dixon of Wills Point High.
Parents/relatives, friends and educators joined the students at the celebration, at which the students told of their interests and their plans for the future. Giving out the awards was DAR Good Citizen Chairman Betty Wilson, who spoke of the impressive achievements of the awardees and extended sincere thanks to their families, teachers and school counselors for assisting in the students’ success. Chapter Regent Sherrie Archer noted that several awardees were unable to attend the award ceremony, due to the full schedule of events on Feb. 11, including the University Interscholastic League (UIL) competition. She thanked the students and friends/family who were in attendance.
The program for the event was given by DAR member Pat Thibodeau, who made a very interesting presentation on Martha Dandridge Custis Washington, the wife of George Washington. As the first First Lady of the United States, Mrs. Washington helped set standards and customs that are followed to this day, according to Ms. Thibodeau. She described Mrs. Washington as a humble, hardworking, private person who nevertheless rose to the occasion repeatedly in her life, especially during her husband’s many years leading the Continental Army—she followed him and lived at the various encampments—and during the eight years of Washington’s presidency. George Washington was rightly called the father of his country, but Mrs. Washington was the mother of the country, said Ms. Thibodeau.
Food and drinks were served at the tea, which was attended by members of the Genealogical Society as well as the DAR.
New Year, New Officers, New Events
Mayor Stevan Steadham after swearing in new officers: L-R: President Carrie Woolverton, Mayor Steadham, Director At Large Linda Dennis, Treasurer and Quarterly Editor Jan Crow, Recording Secretary Cindy Cooper, Director At Large Beck Rosson, Second Vice President Imogene Kirkpatrick, First Vice President Tammy Garrett
The Van Zandt County Genealogical Society met on Saturday, January 28, at the Van Zandt County Library in Canton. In addition to the group’s regular business, the meeting featured the swearing-in of the Society’s 2023-2024 officers by Stevan Steadham, Mayor of Edgewood.
Mr. Steadham, a Van Zandt native (Wills Point) now in his fourth term as Edgewood’s mayor, spoke about the good work done by the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society and the value of the Library of Genealogy and Local History. Mr. Steadham administered the oath of office to all the new officers, many of whom are continuing in office from the 2022 term. The 2023 officers are: President Carrie Woolverton; Immediate Past President and Historian Sherrie Archer; First Vice-President Tammy Garrett; Second Vice-President Imogene Kirkpatrick; Recording Secretary Cindy Cooper; Corresponding Secretary Sylvia Barbee; Treasurer, Quarterly Editor and Property Chairman Jan Crow; Public Relations and Internet Chairman Suzie Bass; Director At Large Becky Rosson; and Director At Large Linda Dennis.
Kathy Laney received a First Families of Van Zandt County certificate from President Woolverton, for Ms. Laney’s ancestors Levi and Savannah Faulk. First Families certificates are given to people who can trace their family line to an ancestor who lived in Van Zandt County in 1860 or earlier. Anyone can apply for a First Families certificate, and applicants do not have to live in Van Zandt County. Ms. Woolverton noted that Ms. Laney, along with Mr. Steadham and his wife Judy, are new members of the Society but are already very active and are doing good work for the Society and for Van Zandt County historical projects.
Patricia Thibodeau, Society member and the Outreach Director for the National Society Descendants of American Farmers, urged those with ancestors who were farmers at any time between 1776 and 1914 to join the organization. She noted that the Farmers group is very active in providing scholarships for students who plan on a career in agriculture.
Ms. Woolverton reminded the group that the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society has many activities coming up. Of particular importance is the Society’s celebration of the 175th anniversary of the creation of Van Zandt County, which will take place at 2:00 p.m. on March 25, 2023, at the main county library and the Blackwell House Museum next door to the library, in Canton. The public is invited to attend this event, which will honor the many early settlers who made Van Zandt County what it is today. The Society will honor in particular Elvira Engledow, an early settler and landowner whose daughter married Henry Blackwell, who built the Blackwell House. Refreshments will be served at the celebration.
Other upcoming events include the next regular meeting of the Society on February 25 at 2:00 p.m., at the main Canton library. The meeting will feature the genealogist Emily Richardson speaking on the topic of “Same Name, Same Location, Which One Is Mine?” regarding researching ancestors who have common names. The annual free Spring Genealogy Workshop is tentatively scheduled for 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. on April 15, at the main library in Canton. Both meetings are open to the public and refreshments will be served.
Mr. Steadham, a Van Zandt native (Wills Point) now in his fourth term as Edgewood’s mayor, spoke about the good work done by the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society and the value of the Library of Genealogy and Local History. Mr. Steadham administered the oath of office to all the new officers, many of whom are continuing in office from the 2022 term. The 2023 officers are: President Carrie Woolverton; Immediate Past President and Historian Sherrie Archer; First Vice-President Tammy Garrett; Second Vice-President Imogene Kirkpatrick; Recording Secretary Cindy Cooper; Corresponding Secretary Sylvia Barbee; Treasurer, Quarterly Editor and Property Chairman Jan Crow; Public Relations and Internet Chairman Suzie Bass; Director At Large Becky Rosson; and Director At Large Linda Dennis.
Kathy Laney received a First Families of Van Zandt County certificate from President Woolverton, for Ms. Laney’s ancestors Levi and Savannah Faulk. First Families certificates are given to people who can trace their family line to an ancestor who lived in Van Zandt County in 1860 or earlier. Anyone can apply for a First Families certificate, and applicants do not have to live in Van Zandt County. Ms. Woolverton noted that Ms. Laney, along with Mr. Steadham and his wife Judy, are new members of the Society but are already very active and are doing good work for the Society and for Van Zandt County historical projects.
Patricia Thibodeau, Society member and the Outreach Director for the National Society Descendants of American Farmers, urged those with ancestors who were farmers at any time between 1776 and 1914 to join the organization. She noted that the Farmers group is very active in providing scholarships for students who plan on a career in agriculture.
Ms. Woolverton reminded the group that the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society has many activities coming up. Of particular importance is the Society’s celebration of the 175th anniversary of the creation of Van Zandt County, which will take place at 2:00 p.m. on March 25, 2023, at the main county library and the Blackwell House Museum next door to the library, in Canton. The public is invited to attend this event, which will honor the many early settlers who made Van Zandt County what it is today. The Society will honor in particular Elvira Engledow, an early settler and landowner whose daughter married Henry Blackwell, who built the Blackwell House. Refreshments will be served at the celebration.
Other upcoming events include the next regular meeting of the Society on February 25 at 2:00 p.m., at the main Canton library. The meeting will feature the genealogist Emily Richardson speaking on the topic of “Same Name, Same Location, Which One Is Mine?” regarding researching ancestors who have common names. The annual free Spring Genealogy Workshop is tentatively scheduled for 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. on April 15, at the main library in Canton. Both meetings are open to the public and refreshments will be served.
Happy New Year! Don't Forget to Buy a Historical Commission 2023 Calendar!
Calendar has an interesting story every month from Van Zandt history
Start the New Year right with a Van Zandt County Historical Commission 2023 Calendar! A yearly favorite, the Historical Commission Calendar features interesting pictures and information about our county's past. This year's version is more informative than ever, with a short story each month about a person or thing (singers, war heroes, railroads) from Van Zandt County's history. Price: $5. Available at various retail establishments in the county, or you can buy one at the Van Zandt County Genealogy Library. Or send $5 (each), plus $2 (each) for shipping and handling, to the Van Zandt County Historical Commission, PO Box 251, Canton TX 75103. For more information, email the Historical Commission at vanzandttxchc@gmail.com
Get one while supplies last.... You're not just buying a calendar, you're supporting the work of the Van Zandt County Historical Commission, in its mission to further historical education and preservation.
Get one while supplies last.... You're not just buying a calendar, you're supporting the work of the Van Zandt County Historical Commission, in its mission to further historical education and preservation.
Show and Tell Meeting Nov. 26
Jan Crow with a photo of her great-grandmother.
The Van Zandt County Genealogical Society met on Saturday, November 26, Van Zandt County Library. The program was Show and Tell, in attendees share stories of history, genealogy and family, and often bring a photo or other item to illustrate their accounts. This year’s stories were as entertaining as ever.
Pat Thibodeau led the program by encouraging everyone to join the National Society Descendants of American Farmers. All who have ancestors who were American farmers between the years 1776 and 1914 are eligible. She also encouraged people to get involved with the Texas Genealogical College. For her contribution to the show and tell, Ms. Thibodeau spoke of her experience service in three (3) branches of the U.S. armed services.
Sherrie Archer told of growing up in Fannin County, Texas, and being a small child when the local Congressman, Sam Rayburn, was the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Sam Rayburn Library and Museum was being built, and Ms. Archer, along with many students in her school, donated money to the project—often only a dime or a nickel, which was big money to children. Each person who donated got a signed thank you letter from Congressmen Rayburn, including each child.
Jan Crow brought a pair of her baby shoes—a popular item for show and tell participants—and also her husband’s cousin’s reading primer book from 1924. She brought a beautiful portrait of her great-grandmother, Sarah Wallace Tabler, in color.
Carrie Woolverton regaled the crowd with an account of her great-grandfather, Jesse Wilson, who used to brew beer in the attic. His brewing operation was generally successful, except for the time something went wrong and the bottles started exploding. He also once entertained his baby grandson by letting the baby sit on the seat of the horse-drawn plow, with the reins in the baby’s hands. The horse bolted, and the baby went for a memorable ride, laughing. (The grandfather stopped the animal and the child was not hurt.)
Suzie Bass described the experience of her grandfather, Dr. J.W. Bass of Martin's Mill, in World War II as an Army doctor in the Pacific theater, including the time he helped organize a hospital for U.S. soldiers in Australia during a serious cholera outbreak. The hospital was located in a converted horse racetrack, with patients in the barns. Her grandfather said it was as clean an Army hospital as anyone could wish for.
Sandra Jones told of recently getting a large box that had belonged to her husband Ronnie’s grandmother. It was full of photos of the family, which she and Ronnie were pleased with. It also contained the grandmother’s tax records—not so thrilling.
Imogene Kirkpatrick spoke of her interest at an early age in family stories and how all her cousins were related to her. This was before “genealogy” became a common hobby. Ms. Kirkpatrick said that later, when so many people were becoming interested in family history, she felt like she had a head start.
Tammy Garrett finished up the meeting, not with a family history story, but an account of her recent experience camping with friends at Cooper Lake State Park near Sulphur Springs. All was going well--until a tornado blew through the area! While the campsite was not damaged, Ms. Garrett said she spent a couple of hours in the camp’s bathroom facility, which served as a tornado shelter. It made for a memorable camping story.
Below, left: Carrie Woolverton with slide show of her family. Below, right: Suzie Bass with a photo of her grandfather and his fellow officers in Fort Sam Houston (San Antonio) in 1929.
Pat Thibodeau led the program by encouraging everyone to join the National Society Descendants of American Farmers. All who have ancestors who were American farmers between the years 1776 and 1914 are eligible. She also encouraged people to get involved with the Texas Genealogical College. For her contribution to the show and tell, Ms. Thibodeau spoke of her experience service in three (3) branches of the U.S. armed services.
Sherrie Archer told of growing up in Fannin County, Texas, and being a small child when the local Congressman, Sam Rayburn, was the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Sam Rayburn Library and Museum was being built, and Ms. Archer, along with many students in her school, donated money to the project—often only a dime or a nickel, which was big money to children. Each person who donated got a signed thank you letter from Congressmen Rayburn, including each child.
Jan Crow brought a pair of her baby shoes—a popular item for show and tell participants—and also her husband’s cousin’s reading primer book from 1924. She brought a beautiful portrait of her great-grandmother, Sarah Wallace Tabler, in color.
Carrie Woolverton regaled the crowd with an account of her great-grandfather, Jesse Wilson, who used to brew beer in the attic. His brewing operation was generally successful, except for the time something went wrong and the bottles started exploding. He also once entertained his baby grandson by letting the baby sit on the seat of the horse-drawn plow, with the reins in the baby’s hands. The horse bolted, and the baby went for a memorable ride, laughing. (The grandfather stopped the animal and the child was not hurt.)
Suzie Bass described the experience of her grandfather, Dr. J.W. Bass of Martin's Mill, in World War II as an Army doctor in the Pacific theater, including the time he helped organize a hospital for U.S. soldiers in Australia during a serious cholera outbreak. The hospital was located in a converted horse racetrack, with patients in the barns. Her grandfather said it was as clean an Army hospital as anyone could wish for.
Sandra Jones told of recently getting a large box that had belonged to her husband Ronnie’s grandmother. It was full of photos of the family, which she and Ronnie were pleased with. It also contained the grandmother’s tax records—not so thrilling.
Imogene Kirkpatrick spoke of her interest at an early age in family stories and how all her cousins were related to her. This was before “genealogy” became a common hobby. Ms. Kirkpatrick said that later, when so many people were becoming interested in family history, she felt like she had a head start.
Tammy Garrett finished up the meeting, not with a family history story, but an account of her recent experience camping with friends at Cooper Lake State Park near Sulphur Springs. All was going well--until a tornado blew through the area! While the campsite was not damaged, Ms. Garrett said she spent a couple of hours in the camp’s bathroom facility, which served as a tornado shelter. It made for a memorable camping story.
Below, left: Carrie Woolverton with slide show of her family. Below, right: Suzie Bass with a photo of her grandfather and his fellow officers in Fort Sam Houston (San Antonio) in 1929.
Witches! Oct. 22 Meeting Gives the History
Dr. Schellen at the meeting after her speech
The Van Zandt County Genealogical Society had its regular meeting on Saturday, October 22, 2022, at the main library in Canton. President Carrie Woolverton noted that the Genealogy Library in Canton, which the Genealogical Society staffs with volunteers, has upgraded its microfilm machines for the convenience of researchers. Ms. Woolverton also announced with regret the imminent departure of Genealogical Society Board of Directors member and librarian Vickie Burkhart, who is moving out of town shortly. Ms. Woolverton noted how much the Society will miss Ms. Burkhart. A going away party was held by the members for Ms. Burkhart after the meeting.
The speaker for the meeting was Dr. Julie Schellen, a college professor and Certified Genealogist who has provided research for the TV show Finding Your Roots on PBS. Her program was “Double, Double, Toil and Trouble: Witches in Colonial America.” She focused on the Salem (Massachusetts) witch trials of 1692. As Dr. Schellen explained, people in American colonial days (16th-18th centuries) routinely believed in witches and other supernatural occurrences, and the Salem witch scare was a terrifying time. The trouble started with several teenaged girls, who may have been ill or who may have been simply playing a prank. In the spring of 1692, the two girls began to writhe in pain and scream for days on end, declaring that certain women in the community were trying to kill them with witchcraft. Before long, other young women had joined in the hysteria, claiming illness and accusing others of being witches. The accused, mostly women, were thrown into prison, and many were executed, typically by hanging. Others died in prison. Some of those charged with witchcraft confessed in hopes of escaping death. One man who was accused refused to confess or even to enter a plea in court; he was ordered to be crushed to death with stones.
The Salem witch hysteria died down by late 1692. Dr. Schellen said that other American colonies had witch scares, but the extent of the Salem trials was unusual. She also stressed that researchers have found that often a witchcraft accusation was based in malice or greed. The person claiming that a woman or man was a witch frequently had a grudge against the accused. The accuser hoped, by getting the “witch” executed, to have a chance at the witch’s property. A condemned witch’s lands were confiscated by the authorities and put up for sale. Evidence points to this sort of feuding and greed as the cause of the Salem witch accusations.
Dr. Schellen is a 5th generation Texan who has worked in genealogy, in addition to her regular teaching jobj, for years. She recently published a case study in The Maine Genealogist, and is a popular speaker and researcher. She is a member of numerous genealogy lineage societies, and is related to at least one accused “witch” of colonial times. She provides research for Heritage Genealogical Research in the Dallas/Fort Worth area: https://heritagegenealogicalresearch.com/index.html
The speaker for the meeting was Dr. Julie Schellen, a college professor and Certified Genealogist who has provided research for the TV show Finding Your Roots on PBS. Her program was “Double, Double, Toil and Trouble: Witches in Colonial America.” She focused on the Salem (Massachusetts) witch trials of 1692. As Dr. Schellen explained, people in American colonial days (16th-18th centuries) routinely believed in witches and other supernatural occurrences, and the Salem witch scare was a terrifying time. The trouble started with several teenaged girls, who may have been ill or who may have been simply playing a prank. In the spring of 1692, the two girls began to writhe in pain and scream for days on end, declaring that certain women in the community were trying to kill them with witchcraft. Before long, other young women had joined in the hysteria, claiming illness and accusing others of being witches. The accused, mostly women, were thrown into prison, and many were executed, typically by hanging. Others died in prison. Some of those charged with witchcraft confessed in hopes of escaping death. One man who was accused refused to confess or even to enter a plea in court; he was ordered to be crushed to death with stones.
The Salem witch hysteria died down by late 1692. Dr. Schellen said that other American colonies had witch scares, but the extent of the Salem trials was unusual. She also stressed that researchers have found that often a witchcraft accusation was based in malice or greed. The person claiming that a woman or man was a witch frequently had a grudge against the accused. The accuser hoped, by getting the “witch” executed, to have a chance at the witch’s property. A condemned witch’s lands were confiscated by the authorities and put up for sale. Evidence points to this sort of feuding and greed as the cause of the Salem witch accusations.
Dr. Schellen is a 5th generation Texan who has worked in genealogy, in addition to her regular teaching jobj, for years. She recently published a case study in The Maine Genealogist, and is a popular speaker and researcher. She is a member of numerous genealogy lineage societies, and is related to at least one accused “witch” of colonial times. She provides research for Heritage Genealogical Research in the Dallas/Fort Worth area: https://heritagegenealogicalresearch.com/index.html
Genealogical Society Board member Vickie Burkhart's going away party after meeting; fellow Board members Suzie Bass, Imogene Kirkpatrick, Cindy Cooper, Tammy Garrett, Vickie Burkhart, Carrie Woolverton, Becky Rosson, Sherrie Archer.
Two Original Settlers Honored at Elm Grove Cemetery
Descendants of settler James Thomason: Sheri Merrill, Jana Dennie, Kay Tatum, Jan and Bill Crow
The Van Zandt County Genealogical Society assisted local lineage societies in honoring two old Van Zandt County settlers and patriots on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at Elm Grove Cemetery in the southwestern part of the county. The Van Zandt chapters of the U.S. Daughters of 1812, Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT), and the United Daughters of the Confederacy placed special medallions on the graves of James Albert Rice and James H. Thomason to mark their status. Descendants of the two men participated in the ceremony, as did high-ranking members of the lineage societies. (See slideshow of photos of the day, below.)
The ceremony was led by Carrie Wilson Woolverton, President of the local DRT and Daughters of 1812 chapters and of the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society. The Genealogical Society, along with the Neches River Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the local Children of the Republic of Texas, provided refreshments.
A special highlight was the awarding of First Families of Van Zandt County certificates to members of the Crow family—Janice Hinsley Crow, her husband Bill Crow, and their daughters Sheri Crow Merrill and Jana Crow Dennie. Bill and Sheri and Jana are descendants of Mr. Thomason. Jan and Bill Crow are active members of the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society.
Driving all the way from Arkansas for the ceremony were Kay and John Tatum. Kay is a descendant of James Thomason. Ms. Woolverton expressed the group’s appreciation that Mr. and Mrs. Tatum took the time to honor their ancestor. Kay is the past State President of the U.S. Daughters of 1812, Arkansas. John is past State President of the General Society of 1812, Arkansas.
To mark the occasion, the Van Zandt County Commissioners Court earlier had issued a proclamation making Oct. 8, 2022 a day honoring James Rice. The ceremony honoring James Thomason was an equally important part of the day, but his memorial marker arrived after the proclamation was issued.
Attending the ceremony and helping to lay flags at the graves were Colleen Petosa, National Chairwoman for Grave Markings, Daughters of 1812; Carolyn Raney, past President General of DRT, and Ora Jane Johnson, national Librarian for the Daughters of 1812 (and past State President, Texas).
The day featured members in period costume and the firing of a War of 1812 era rifle by Scott McDonald, Major R. L. Dabney Camp Commander, Sons of Confederate Veterans. Mr. McDonald presented a historic Texas flag to the local DRT chapter from his Sons of Confederate Veterans chapter. Flags and wreaths were placed at the graves.
James Albert Rice (1800-1877) was originally from Tennessee. He served in the War of 1812, as a Private in Captain Pillow’s Company, 2nd Regiment, West Tennessee Volunteers. He made a living as a farmer. He and his wife Jane (Smith) had at least eight children. The family moved to Texas in 1839, during the Republic. After arriving in Texas, James served 2nd Lieutenant in Captain G.M. Dolson’s Texas Ranger Minute Men in 1941. He was also a Private in Captain B.F. Carroll’s Reserves, 19th Brigade, Texas Militia in the Civil War.
James H. Thomason (1790-1870) was born in South Carolina. He served as a Private under Edward Clement from 1814-1815 in Means’ Company, 1st Regiment, South Carolina Militia in the War of 1812. He married twice, first to Jane Sellars in 1808. They had at least seven children. Jane died in 1820 in Alabama. He married Ann Currie Hill in 1829. They had at least six children. James moved with his family to Texas in 1840. He was a farmer, but also was a preacher. James served as a Corporal in the 17th Consolidated Regiment, Texas Dismounted Cavalry, Company A in the Civil War.
The beautiful Elm Grove Cemetery and the fall weather made for a perfect backdrop for a patriotic occasion.
The ceremony was led by Carrie Wilson Woolverton, President of the local DRT and Daughters of 1812 chapters and of the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society. The Genealogical Society, along with the Neches River Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the local Children of the Republic of Texas, provided refreshments.
A special highlight was the awarding of First Families of Van Zandt County certificates to members of the Crow family—Janice Hinsley Crow, her husband Bill Crow, and their daughters Sheri Crow Merrill and Jana Crow Dennie. Bill and Sheri and Jana are descendants of Mr. Thomason. Jan and Bill Crow are active members of the Van Zandt County Genealogical Society.
Driving all the way from Arkansas for the ceremony were Kay and John Tatum. Kay is a descendant of James Thomason. Ms. Woolverton expressed the group’s appreciation that Mr. and Mrs. Tatum took the time to honor their ancestor. Kay is the past State President of the U.S. Daughters of 1812, Arkansas. John is past State President of the General Society of 1812, Arkansas.
To mark the occasion, the Van Zandt County Commissioners Court earlier had issued a proclamation making Oct. 8, 2022 a day honoring James Rice. The ceremony honoring James Thomason was an equally important part of the day, but his memorial marker arrived after the proclamation was issued.
Attending the ceremony and helping to lay flags at the graves were Colleen Petosa, National Chairwoman for Grave Markings, Daughters of 1812; Carolyn Raney, past President General of DRT, and Ora Jane Johnson, national Librarian for the Daughters of 1812 (and past State President, Texas).
The day featured members in period costume and the firing of a War of 1812 era rifle by Scott McDonald, Major R. L. Dabney Camp Commander, Sons of Confederate Veterans. Mr. McDonald presented a historic Texas flag to the local DRT chapter from his Sons of Confederate Veterans chapter. Flags and wreaths were placed at the graves.
James Albert Rice (1800-1877) was originally from Tennessee. He served in the War of 1812, as a Private in Captain Pillow’s Company, 2nd Regiment, West Tennessee Volunteers. He made a living as a farmer. He and his wife Jane (Smith) had at least eight children. The family moved to Texas in 1839, during the Republic. After arriving in Texas, James served 2nd Lieutenant in Captain G.M. Dolson’s Texas Ranger Minute Men in 1941. He was also a Private in Captain B.F. Carroll’s Reserves, 19th Brigade, Texas Militia in the Civil War.
James H. Thomason (1790-1870) was born in South Carolina. He served as a Private under Edward Clement from 1814-1815 in Means’ Company, 1st Regiment, South Carolina Militia in the War of 1812. He married twice, first to Jane Sellars in 1808. They had at least seven children. Jane died in 1820 in Alabama. He married Ann Currie Hill in 1829. They had at least six children. James moved with his family to Texas in 1840. He was a farmer, but also was a preacher. James served as a Corporal in the 17th Consolidated Regiment, Texas Dismounted Cavalry, Company A in the Civil War.
The beautiful Elm Grove Cemetery and the fall weather made for a perfect backdrop for a patriotic occasion.
Fall Genealogy Seminar: Fundamentals Made Fun
John Sellers, the instructor at the Sept. 24, 2022 seminar
The Van Zandt County Genealogical Society held its annual Fall Genealogy Seminar on Saturday, September 24, 2022, at the Van Zandt County Farm Bureau. The all-day meeting was a great success, with interesting lectures, good food, door prizes, and plenty of opportunities for genealogists to share stories and learn. President Carrie Wilson Woolverton introduced the speaker for the Seminar, John A. Sellers, who is Mayor Pro Tem of Sulphur Springs, Texas, former Mayor of that city and is serving his fourth term on the City Council. Mr. Sellers is also a genealogist and genealogy instructor with decades of experience, and a regular and popular speaker at Van Zandt County Genealogical Society meetings. At Saturday’s seminar, he delivered a series of four lectures, focusing on the nuts and bolts of getting research done.
Mr. Sellers (See photo) gave tips to researchers about how to get information from court records in various counties in Texas and in other states. He explained how such information could be most easily acquired, and also why such information is so useful for genealogists. In one example, Mr. Sellers described how he got around a “brick wall” (lack of information) on a particular ancestor by checking District Court lawsuit records and finding detailed descriptions of family members’ names and relationships to each other, as well as property that was held by the family. He noted that such information is not going to turn up in a simple Ancestry.com search of a person’s name. Mr. Sellers emphasized that computer research on the various services such as Ancestry, Family Search, and others is a great source of information, and that a lot of leads can even be found by simple Google searches. But, he said, serious family researchers need to get away from the computer regularly and hunt for information if they wish to learn more.
Mr. Sellers also praised the availability of rare books, individual family files, and other documentation that is housed in genealogy libraries such as Van Zandt County Library of Genealogy and Local History. He said such facilities and their staffs (often volunteers) are a tremendous help to genealogists. He urged everyone not to neglect other institutions’ materials, such as Masonic Lodge records, which sometimes go back several hundred years and have a wealth of family information.
In the “Your Ancestor’s Own Cousins” lecture, meeting attendees learned a lot about work-around research. Often the same group of extended family and friends picked up and moved across the country together as settlers. Knowing where one’s ancestor’s family and friends lived can often lead a researcher to information on the ancestor him/herself. Mr. Sellers gave helpful information on how to do research on female ancestors—many of which appear in records under only their husbands’ names. Finding maiden names opens up new family lines to investigate, and seminar participants got tips on how to do this. Mr. Sellers punctuated his lectures with hilarious stories about his many years of family research. Not surprisingly, the “failures” he described were just as instructive as the straightforward successes. He emphasized that genealogy is a trial-and-error process, and that that learning from mistakes makes everyone a better researcher.
Attendees enjoyed the spacious meeting room of the Van Zandt County Farm Bureau. The Seminar included breakfast, snacks and lunch from Schlotzsky’s in Canton. The meeting was enlivened by “goodie bags” and door prizes that were provided by the Canton Visitors Bureau, Texas Bank and Trust, Prosperity Bank, Captain James Burleson Chapter US Daughters of 1812, James Pinckney Henderson Chapter Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Martin’s Hundred Chapter Colonial Dames 17th Century, and Carrie Woolverton.
After the meeting ended, many participants opened the Family Search app on their smartphones and used the feature that finds any cousins that are in the room. As expected, quite a few--including Mr. Sellers--turned out to be related to each other, some as distant as 14th cousins! (Of course, followup research would be needed to make sure the relationships were proven, but this Family Search app is a favorite and sparked a lot of conversation. And those who didn't have smartphones couldn't pull up the app, so we probably missed a few.) See photo below of some of the cousins.
Mr. Sellers (See photo) gave tips to researchers about how to get information from court records in various counties in Texas and in other states. He explained how such information could be most easily acquired, and also why such information is so useful for genealogists. In one example, Mr. Sellers described how he got around a “brick wall” (lack of information) on a particular ancestor by checking District Court lawsuit records and finding detailed descriptions of family members’ names and relationships to each other, as well as property that was held by the family. He noted that such information is not going to turn up in a simple Ancestry.com search of a person’s name. Mr. Sellers emphasized that computer research on the various services such as Ancestry, Family Search, and others is a great source of information, and that a lot of leads can even be found by simple Google searches. But, he said, serious family researchers need to get away from the computer regularly and hunt for information if they wish to learn more.
Mr. Sellers also praised the availability of rare books, individual family files, and other documentation that is housed in genealogy libraries such as Van Zandt County Library of Genealogy and Local History. He said such facilities and their staffs (often volunteers) are a tremendous help to genealogists. He urged everyone not to neglect other institutions’ materials, such as Masonic Lodge records, which sometimes go back several hundred years and have a wealth of family information.
In the “Your Ancestor’s Own Cousins” lecture, meeting attendees learned a lot about work-around research. Often the same group of extended family and friends picked up and moved across the country together as settlers. Knowing where one’s ancestor’s family and friends lived can often lead a researcher to information on the ancestor him/herself. Mr. Sellers gave helpful information on how to do research on female ancestors—many of which appear in records under only their husbands’ names. Finding maiden names opens up new family lines to investigate, and seminar participants got tips on how to do this. Mr. Sellers punctuated his lectures with hilarious stories about his many years of family research. Not surprisingly, the “failures” he described were just as instructive as the straightforward successes. He emphasized that genealogy is a trial-and-error process, and that that learning from mistakes makes everyone a better researcher.
Attendees enjoyed the spacious meeting room of the Van Zandt County Farm Bureau. The Seminar included breakfast, snacks and lunch from Schlotzsky’s in Canton. The meeting was enlivened by “goodie bags” and door prizes that were provided by the Canton Visitors Bureau, Texas Bank and Trust, Prosperity Bank, Captain James Burleson Chapter US Daughters of 1812, James Pinckney Henderson Chapter Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Martin’s Hundred Chapter Colonial Dames 17th Century, and Carrie Woolverton.
After the meeting ended, many participants opened the Family Search app on their smartphones and used the feature that finds any cousins that are in the room. As expected, quite a few--including Mr. Sellers--turned out to be related to each other, some as distant as 14th cousins! (Of course, followup research would be needed to make sure the relationships were proven, but this Family Search app is a favorite and sparked a lot of conversation. And those who didn't have smartphones couldn't pull up the app, so we probably missed a few.) See photo below of some of the cousins.
John Sellers speaks to seminar participants at the Van Zandt County Farm Bureau on Sept. 24.
Attention all who have old Van Zandt County roots: Are you eligible for a 100 Year or First Families Certificate? See below.
Dedication of Two Historic Buildings at Heritage Park in Edgewood: Fun and History
Two beautifully-restored Van Zandt County buildings were dedicated on November 6, 2021, at the Heritage Park of East Texas, at their permanent location in Edgewood. The 1850 Courthouse, the first courthouse that stood in the county seat of Canton, had been demolished years ago and was rebuilt by the Heritage Park. The 1890s Poor Farm Calaboose (jail), was saved from destruction and was restored to its original state. Both buildings were showcased at a ceremony that featured a special session of the Van Zandt County Commissioners Court. The Commissioners arrived by mule wagon and read a Proclamation dedicating the new buildings.
The ceremony was followed by a lunch of old-fashioned stew, cooked over an open fire on the grounds of the park. Many attendees--including the County Judge and Commissioners--wore historic attire. The park, which features many beautifully-restored buildings, was open for all attendees to tour. It was a fun and educational event.
The ceremony was followed by a lunch of old-fashioned stew, cooked over an open fire on the grounds of the park. Many attendees--including the County Judge and Commissioners--wore historic attire. The park, which features many beautifully-restored buildings, was open for all attendees to tour. It was a fun and educational event.
Above: Van Zandt County Genealogical Society Members attending the dedication stand on the steps of the 1850 Courthouse: L to R: Sherrie Archer, Cindy Cooper, Elvis Allen, Suzie Bass, Carrie Woolverton. Below, left: The Poor Farm Calaboose jail of the 1890s, showing the iron grate window. Below, middle: The Van Zandt County Commissioners Court meets inside the 1850 Courthouse. Below, right: The Commissioners and County Judge arrive by mule wagon.
Library of Genealogy and Local History
County Courthouse Annex, Suite 104 (East End of Building)
P O Box 1388
Canton, Texas 75103
Our Phone Number, Email link and Facebook link are below, along with other useful links.
Library Hours
Monday through Friday: 10 AM to 3 PM Closed Sunday and Holidays
Saturday: 10 AM to12:30 PM
Please call before making a long trip as there are some unforeseen circumstances that call for us being closed from time to time.
Monday through Friday: 10 AM to 3 PM Closed Sunday and Holidays
Saturday: 10 AM to12:30 PM
Please call before making a long trip as there are some unforeseen circumstances that call for us being closed from time to time.
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Van Zandt County Courthouse Annex
Our BuildingWe are inside the second door on the left side of the building, up the steps .
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The Library offers four computers with internet access, Ancestry.com (Ancestry Library), History Geo, newspapers online, microfilm of local county newspapers, marriages licenses, various other county records, and microfilm Census records (if you like researching the old-fashioned way). We offer quite a few books relating to Van Zandt County specifically, and books of other Texas counties as well as other states. We are a great little library for genealogy research.
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Useful Links
Van Zandt County Historical Commission www.vanzandthistoricalcommission.com/
Texas State Genealogical Society www.txsgs.org/
Van Zandt County, Texas History (Facebook): www.facebook.com/VZTXHistory
Texas Historical Commission www.thc.texas.gov/
East Texas Genealogical Society www.etgs.org/
The Portal to Texas History texashistory.unt.edu/
Texas State Library and Archives Commission www.tsl.texas.gov/arc
Texas General Land Office www.glo.texas.gov
Texas State Genealogical Society www.txsgs.org/
Van Zandt County, Texas History (Facebook): www.facebook.com/VZTXHistory
Texas Historical Commission www.thc.texas.gov/
East Texas Genealogical Society www.etgs.org/
The Portal to Texas History texashistory.unt.edu/
Texas State Library and Archives Commission www.tsl.texas.gov/arc
Texas General Land Office www.glo.texas.gov