About Southwest Florida Germanic Genealogy Society, Inc.
The Southwest Florida Germanic Genealogy Society was founded in November 2006. The first regular meeting was held in January 2007.
The Southwest Florida Germanic Genealogy Society was founded by local genealogists who were involved in Germanic research. There were a number of small German study groups active in various local genealogy societies. Unfortunately, little interaction among them took place; thus, there was no encouragement to learn from each other or share their information The genealogists felt a coordinated effort could result in significant benefit to all.
With high hopes, the group secured a meeting place and contacted the local societies to spread the word about a new group specifically designed for those who were doing Germanic research (research in countries/areas where German is/was spoken). Over 50 researchers attended the first meeting in November 2006. Dues were set, meeting dates planned and the Southwest Florida Germanic Genealogy Society (SWFLGG) became a reality.
Our goal is to provide fellowship, education and support in our research about the history and genealogy in regions where the German language and culture was or is prevalent.
We support and educate persons interested in learning and applying accepted practices for German genealogical research ... and disseminate information to the membership about events pertinent to their German research, both current and historical.
In 2009, the society launched an annual, one-day seminar specific to German genealogy research. Nationally known German genealogists from across the country have been invited to present topics of interest at the seminar. The seminars are open to the public and usually feature a home-cooked German lunch.
