Genealogical Grants
What Do You Mean by "Genealogical Grants"?
Genealogical societies, local and specialized libraries, and avid genealogists are always short of the funds they need to buy appropriate books and CDs, acquire the necessary computers and peripherals, get collected information into print, and pursue other projects. I'd like to take a tiny step toward addressing this problem.
If you represent an organization which serves the genealogical community at large - or if you serve a smaller community (perhaps you produce a family newsletter, host a website, organize reunions or some such thing) -- and find yourself shy of necessary funds, please consider filling out the form below to apply for a small grant. I will review all submissions and periodically select one for a donation. My goal is one per month. Submissions will remain active candidates for six months from the date of receipt. Hint: I find myself drawn to innovative ideas that can serve as a model to others! Why not give it a go?
I'm just one person, so I can only give small amounts, but I'm operating on the optimistic principle that every little bit helps. For the few minutes it takes to complete this form, you may be able to buy that handful of books or that scanner that's been on your wish list for so long.
What's the Catch?
There is none. Honest. I have had so much fun with genealogy for three decades and have benefited from the help of countless other genealogists. Now it's my turn to give back to the genealogical community.
Want to Know a Little More?
Read Elizabeth Kelley Kerstens's article about this grant program entitled Honoring Our Ancestors Genealogical Grants. You might also enjoy visiting Liz's web site, Ancestor Detective. Another behind-the-scenes peek can be found here.
Current Grants Awarded
April 2010
The Ebenezer Avery House and Museum in Groton, CT contains many artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries that relay family history as well as the social fabric of times past. The House displays nine samplers stitched by Avery Family members between 1788 and the mid-1800s. The grant award will help fund replacement picture frames, display cases, and packaging with archival and preservation-friendly materials so they can survive for future generations.
March 2010
Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society in Nashville, TN provides research and technical workshops for writers, as well as lectures and tours for the public. The grant award will go toward research, planning and implementation of a series of lectures and tours, focusing on positive events experienced on plantations in Tennessee.
February 2010
The Tri-State Genealogical & Historical Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of the tri-state area of Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The grant award will help fund book shelves to house their massive collection of books and family history resources, and enable the society to purchase additional books to continue to build their archive.
Apply for a Grant
