Temecula Valley Genealogical Society
 
Our Mission:

Temecula Valley Genealogical Society is devoted to fostering a vibrant community committed to discovering, documenting, preserving, and sharing ancestral storiesThrough education, collaboration, and resources, we connect individuals with their roots and deepen appreciation for the richness of their ancestors' life journeys.


   Upcoming Events   
 
Monday, April 13
 
Passport Records
 
Ruby Coleman 
5:30 pm to 8:00 pm
 
Passport applications can be some of the most fascinating records a genealogist will ever find. Often containing photographs, detailed physical descriptions, exact birthplaces, and travel information, these records bring ancestors to life in ways few other documents can.
Join us for an engaging presentation exploring how to locate and use passport applications and related records. Learn where these documents can be found, what information they contain, and how they can help you trace international travel, confirm identities, and uncover new clues about your family history.
 

Friday, April 10
 
GED Match
 
Kathy Fernandes  
 
10:00 am
Zoom & Ron H. Roberts Temecula Public Library 30600 Pauba Rd. Temecula, CA 92592
DNA Painter: Trees and Tools-Kathy Fernandes
 
This presentation  
GEDMatch is a third-party website that provides tools for comparing your DNA with other users on the site. This presentation explains how to upload your raw DNA data and describes how to use the tools to compare your autosomal data to that of your matches on the site. This presentation also reviews the tools available to search the family trees that users have posted on the site.

 
Friday, April 24
 
4th Friday
 
Bonnie Hayosh
 
Timeline to the 250'
 
10:00-am 12 noon
Zoom and Community Rm, Ron H. Roberts Temecula Public Library 30600 Pauba Rd. Temecula, CA 92592
 


 Lexington: The Shot Heard Around the World


On April 19, 1775, tensions erupted into open conflict at Lexington. This presentation explores the first colonial between colonial militia and British troops, examining how a brief but pivotal moment marked the beginning of armed resistance—and changed history.
 
Concord: The Fight That Turned the Tide


Following Lexington, the conflict moved to Concord, where colonial forces rallied and pushed back British troops. This talk highlights how local militia transformed from scattered resistance into organized opposition, signaling that the colonies were ready to fight for independence.


 
Writers Group
Never written before and would like to? Come join us to learn to write your family history stories that will be engaging for your audience.
 
April 17th
1pm - 2:30pm
Zoom and Heritage Rm 
Ron H Roberts Public LIbrary
 

 
 
 
 
April News
 
 
DNA Day: A Good Time to Learn More
 
Observed each year on April 25, DNA Day marks the discovery of DNA’s double-helix structure in 1953 and the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003. For genealogists, it’s a timely reminder that DNA can be a valuable tool for exploring family connections and supporting traditional research.
 
Start Here: Genealogy DNA Videos
  • DNA Basics: An Introduction to DNA and Genealogy — a beginner-friendly RootsTech session on what DNA testing is, which tests exist, and how DNA can help family history research. (FamilySearch)
  • Discover Your Roots: DNA Day Special with Ancestry — a FamilySearch session on how DNA testing can unlock family history and complement traditional research. (FamilySearch)
  • Legacy Family Tree Webinars: DNA Library — a larger collection of DNA
  • classes for those ready to keep learning. (Legacy Family Tree Webinars)
  • TVGS Video Archive Featuring Kathy Fernandes monthly classes(DNA Video Archive Here)
 
Whether you are new to DNA or ready to go further, DNA Day is a good time to explore the many learning resources available to family historians.
 
Step into the past this National Library Week and rediscover one of genealogy’s most powerful resources—your library. From rare local records to expert guidance, libraries continue to open doors that online searches alone cannot.
Libraries remain one of the most powerful—and often underused—resources available to genealogists. While many records are now online, libraries continue to hold unique materials, local knowledge, and access points that simply can’t be replicated at home.
For family historians, libraries are far more than shelves of books. They are research hubs where the past comes into focus.
 
Top libraries for genealogy research in the US:
(links)
 
“Many offer online catalogs, digital collections, and remote research services.” 
 
A Gateway to Discovery
Even in a digital age, libraries continue to evolve—offering digitized collections, online catalogs, and research assistance that extend far beyond their walls.
During National Library Week, take a moment to explore what your local library has to offer—or plan a visit to one of the nation’s premier genealogy libraries. You may be surprised at what you discover.

        Local Help, Right Here in
            Our Community            
As we celebrate National Library Week, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of something close to home—our Genealogy Assistance Program, now reestablished at the Ron H. Roberts Temecula Public Library.
This program continues a long-standing tradition of helping individuals and families discover their stories with the support of experienced volunteers.
Whether you’re just beginning or trying to solve a long-standing research problem, help is available.

Genealogy Help—No Appointment Needed
 
Our volunteer genealogists are available in the Genealogy Room to assist with:
Getting started with your family history
Finding records using library and online resources
Breaking through research “brick walls,” including DNA guidance
Understanding census, vital records, and other key sources
Hours Available:
Mondays: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tuesdays: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Thursdays: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Saturdays: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Open to both beginners and experienced researchers.

Why Visit in Person?
Online research is powerful—but sometimes what you really need is a conversation. A fresh set of eyes. A suggestion you hadn’t considered.That’s where this program shines.
During National Library Week, we invite you to stop by, ask a question, and take the next step in your family history journey.

Start Your Search—We’ll Help You Along the Way
You don’t have to do it alone. Whether you come with a question, a name, or just curiosity, you’ll find guidance, encouragement, and new possibilities waiting for you.

 
 
 See what new tools can do for your research! 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
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