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
January 2010
Judy Rosella Edwards' weekly newsletter, Greenspace Genealogy, focuses on the genealogical history of private property that is donated to become greenspace. The newsletter is sent to land conservation and preservation agencies hoping to inspire donors, as well as genealogists who are researching families who lived in the greenspace. The grant will help cover the newsletter expenses.
December 2009
Anthony Vermandois has been researching families from several towns in Campania, Italy, and set up a website to share what he's learning. His goal is to gather basic data on individuals from each family to create a mini-biography for these individuals. The grant award will fund website and equipment costs for the project.
November 2009
The Friends of the Archives Historical & Preservation Society of Monroe County, Tennessee brings historical records into public usage through their archives and on the Internet. The grant award will fund the purchase of archival grade, acid-free boxes so the organization can safely store donated journals and very old family bibles.
Apply for a Grant
