CAGGNI upcoming events

From Curiosity to an Enduring Quest (18 Apr 2026)

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

From Curiosity to an Enduring Quest: Reflections from a Beginner’s Genealogy Journey

by Eric Vavra

After receiving a DNA test as a gift, Eric Vavra embarked on a grand genealogical journey that transformed him from curious beginner to committed family historian. In this candid presentation, he reflects on the achievements, challenges, and insights gained along the way, illustrated through real-world examples and personal experiences.

Attendees will discover where his research quest has led so far as he shares key lessons learned, common mistakes to avoid, and practical concepts that inform his current approach. You will also gain exposure to a wide range of record types, information sources, and tools, along with ways they can be integrated more effectively into your research workflow.

Researchers at all experience levels will find useful insights to consider, whether encountering these concepts for the first time or seeing them illustrated in new ways. The presentation will encourage you to reflect on your own research journey, compare experiences, and explore fresh ideas and approaches to incorporate into your evolving best practices.

Eric Vavra has combined his interest in technology and passion for solving the mysteries of family history to become an avid Genealogist.

Eric uses both traditional research techniques and the latest technology to discover and explore family roots. He leverages skills from his professional information technology consulting career with over 25 years of experience in diverse global roles across project management, business strategy, data analysis, and application development to enhance and accelerate his approach to genealogy.

His versatility, curiosity, and commitment to lifelong learning drive his genealogical work. Valuing collaboration and knowledge sharing, his goal is to help others advance their genealogy journeys.

CAGGNI May 2026 Newsletter Deadline (23 Apr 2026)

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

Members are invited and encouraged to submit material to newsletter @ caggni.org. You can write up whatever you think would be of interest to the group in 500-1,000 words (roughly) for the average-sized composition. Or send us smaller items, websites or tips.

We would especially welcome:

Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
Family stories.
Preparation for library or archive research trips.
Research methodology and techniques.
How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology.
What’s ahead in computer technology.
Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

(Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

Board Meeting - 27 Apr 2026 (27 Apr 2026)

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Board Meeting - 27 Apr 2026

All members of the Board of Directors are requested to be present for this meeting.

CAGGNI members are welcome to attend.

Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown. Zoomers not presenting their full name as known to CAGGNI will be de-admitted.

Reunion Special Interest Group - 2 May 2026 (02 May 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Reunion Special Interest Group - 2 May 2026

Calling all Apple users! Reunion is a genealogy software designed specifically for Macintosh and also available as an app for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. Learn the tips and tricks that will have you utilizing this highly regarded program to its fullest.

Today's Topic: TBA

More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

SIG Lead: Bruce Christopher

CAGGNI SIGs are for members only.

Meeting Style: The Reunion SIG is Zoom only. For the Zoom Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown.

Historical Special Interest Group - 14 May 2026 (14 May 2026)

Fri, 15 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Historical Special Interest Group - 14 May 2026

The Historical SIG, new in 2026, explores historical events and their impacts on our genealogy. Our ancestors' lives were shaped by history, influencing where and how they lived and worked. This historical context also affected their religious practices, military service, commercial success, and political affiliations.

The CAGGNI Historical SIG will explore these important topics.

Today's Topic: TBA

More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

SIG Lead: Alan Wilson.

Alan is a CAGGNI past president and SIG leader.

CAGGNI SIGs are for members only.

Meeting Style: The Historical SIG is Zoom only. Remote joiners can join using the link for the Historical SIG on the Zoom Links page. You will need to be logged in. When Zooming, please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown.

What's New in Technology and Genealogy (16 May 2026)

Sat, 16 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

What's New in Technology and Genealogy

by John Stryker

John is back for our beloved and only annually recurring feature, What's New in Technology. John keeps up with the technology news and will bring word of the best in hardware, gadgetry, applications, and websites, all with an eye on how it can best be used to pursue our genealogical hobby.

John Stryker is retired from being distinguished professor and chair of Computer Technologies and Information Systems at Oakton Community College in Des Plaines. He is CAGGNI's webmaster and co-lead of CAGGNI's Technology SIG. John holds a B.S. in Actuarial Science from the University of Illinois and an M.S. in Computer Science from Northeastern Illinois University.

CAGGNI June 2026 Newsletter Deadline (23 May 2026)

Sat, 23 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT

We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

We would especially welcome:

Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
Family stories.
Preparation for library or archive research trips.
Research methodology and techniques.
How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology.
What’s ahead in computer technology.
Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

(Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

Family Tree Maker Special Interest Group - 6 Jun 2026 (06 Jun 2026)

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Family Tree Maker SIG - 6 Jun 2026

This interest group was originally formed to provide a forum for Family Tree Maker users to share their knowledge and build their expertise with Ancestry's FTM desktop software.

This group continues to explore old and new features of Family Tree Maker software, now with developer MacKiev.

SIG Lead: Alvin Holtzman

Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

Advancing Your Genealogy with Ancestry.com (20 Jun 2026)

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Advancing Your Genealogy with Ancestry.com

by Laura Street Chaplin

Ancestry.com has changed a great deal recently. Come catch up on all the latest tools and tweaks so you can reach more rewarding results on your own.

Laura Street Chaplin is owner of Willowtree Research Genealogy Services. Inspired by the "Roots" miniseries in college, she began a lifelong love of research and genealogical learning. Laura is a former History & Genealogy Manager at the Lawrence J. Martin Heritage Center in Elburn, IL. She has been an active genealogical presenter for ten years. She is a member of the APG, GSG, NGS, Board member for the Kane County Genealogical Society, and currently serves as Director and Newsletter editor for the Illinois State Genealogical Society.

CAGGNI July 2026 Newsletter Deadline (23 Jun 2026)

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 05:00:00 GMT

We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

We would especially welcome:

Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
Family stories.
Preparation for library or archive research trips.
Research methodology and techniques.
How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology.
What’s ahead in computer technology.
Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

(Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

Technology Special Interest Group - 9 Jul 2026 (09 Jul 2026)

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Technology Special Interest Group - 9 Jul 2026

2026 marks the inaugural year for CAGGNI's new Technology SIG. This will carry on with some of the topics formerly featured in last year's internet SIG, such as Internet-based genealogical services (Ancestry, WikiTree...) and new topics such as applying Artificial Intelligence to genealogical applications.

Today's Topic: TBA

More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

SIG Leads: John Stryker and Eric Vavra

CAGGNI SIGs are for members only.

Meeting Style: The Technology SIG is Zoom only. For the Zoom Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown.

Roots Magic / The Master Genealogist SIG - 11 Jul 2026 (11 Jul 2026)

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Roots Magic / The Master Genealogist Special Interest Group - 11 Jul 2026

The RM + TMG SIG is for members interested in the operation and features of the computer programs for genealogy databases RootsMagic and The Master Genealogist.

This CAGGNI Group meets to discuss and share knowledge and experience in using computer programs to research, record, display and share genealogical data. Also helping each other gain a better understanding of the programs and other useful related computer software. Users of all levels are welcome to join this group.

SIG Lead: Larry Olson

CAGGNI SIGs are for members only.

Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

Zoom Attendees: For the Zoom Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown.

GeneaQuest 2026: Sponsor Registration (18 Jul 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 13:00:00 GMT

GeneaQuest 2026: Sponsor Registration

CAGGNI is hosting its 7th biennial genealogy conference at the Woicik Conference Center at Harper College in Palatine, IL, on Saturday, July 18, 2026.

CAGGNI GeneaQuest 2026 – Pursuit of Ancestry: Life, Liberty & Heritage will be an America 250 tribute event celebrating the 250th anniversary in 2026 of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Themes are Legacy of Liberty, Journeys to America, and Tech Meets Tradition.

To offset a portion of the conference costs and keep the registration fees for attendees reasonable, we are offering four sponsorship levels (described below). Sponsorship will give your organization the opportunity to support an educational event and to advertise your available offerings before, during, and after the conference.

CAGGNI hopes you will please consider supporting this event for the greater Chicagoland genealogy community and receiving a beneficial advertising opportunity for your organization.

For more information on the conference please visit https://caggni.org/GeneaQuest2026.

Thanks in advance for your support,
CAGGNI GeneaQuest 2026 Committee

Platinum Level is a $250 donation, which includes:

Highlighted sponsorship of a speaker’s presentation, which will be prominently featured in the conference schedule and the introduction of the session.
One exhibitor table and one lunch for your representative. *
Your organization’s name and/or logo featured as a Platinum Sponsor:

Listed on the CAGGNI GeneaQuest website with a link to your website.
Listed in the attendee syllabus with a link to your website.
Custom full-page advertisement in the CAGGNI GeneaQuest syllabus.
Custom full-screen slide advertisement displayed on screen in the Dining/Exhibitor Hall during check-in, breaks, and lunch.

To register as a Platinum sponsor https://caggni.org/event-6560648.

Gold Level is a $150 donation, which includes:

One exhibitor table and one lunch for your representative. *
Your organization’s name and/or logo featured as a Gold Sponsor:

Listed on the CAGGNI GeneaQuest website with a link to your website.
Listed in the attendee syllabus with a link to your website.
Custom half-page advertisement in the CAGGNI GeneaQuest syllabus.
Custom full-screen slide advertisement displayed on screen in the Dining/Exhibitor Hall during check-in, breaks, and lunch.

To register as a Gold sponsor https://caggni.org/event-6560671.

Silver Level is a $50 donation, which includes:

One exhibitor table and one lunch for your representative. *
Your organization’s name and/or logo featured as a Silver Sponsor:

Listed on the CAGGNI GeneaQuest website with a link to your website.
Listed in the attendee syllabus with a link to your website.
Displayed on screen in the Dining/Exhibitor Hall during check-in, breaks, and lunch.

To register as a Silver sponsor https://caggni.org/event-6560680.

Bronze Level is a $25 donation, which includes:

Your organization’s name and/or logo featured as a Bronze Sponsor:

Listed on the CAGGNI GeneaQuest website with a link to your website.
Listed in the attendee syllabus with a link to your website.
Displayed on screen in the Dining/Exhibitor Hall during check-in, breaks, and lunch.

To register as a Bronze sponsor https://caggni.org/event-6560690.

* Lunches for additional representatives can be purchased during registration.

Questions? Please contact: exhibitors@caggni.org.

If you wish to donate Raffle/Door Prize(s), please visit https://caggni.org/event-6557216.

Computer Assisted Genealogy Group of Northern Illinois (CAGGNI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and Illinois America 250 Program Partner. For more information https://caggni.org/.

GeneaQuest 2026: Attendee Registration (18 Jul 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 13:00:00 GMT

GeneaQuest 2026: Registration

One-day conference – all in-person – speakers & you!

CAGGNI‘s 7th biennial conference on Saturday, July 18, 2026, will be at the Wojcik Conference Center at Harper College in Palatine, IL. The conference is a one-day, in-person event, featuring in-person speakers offering a wide range of genealogy topics of interest to all skills and interest levels.

Members: $75 Early Bird Discount Admission

Members Regular Admission $80

Non-Members: $85 Early Bird Discount Admission

Non-Members Regular Admission $90

Early Bird Registration Deadline: Saturday, May 30, 2026

Regular Registration Deadline: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Tickets will not be sold at the door.

Box lunch included with a sandwich (choice of turkey, ham, or veggie) served with a cookie, a bag of chips, and beverage service.

All paid attendees will have access for one month to all recorded presentations.

For more more information about the speakers, topics and schedule: https://caggni.org/GeneaQuest2026

GeneaQuest 2026: Raffle/Door Prize Donor Registration (18 Jul 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 13:00:00 GMT

GeneaQuest 2026: Raffle/Door Prize Donors

GeneaQuest 2026: CAGGNI‘s 7th biennial conference on Saturday, July, 18, 2026, will be at the Wojcik Conference Center at Harper College in Palatine, IL.

Donations will give your organization the opportunity to support an educational event and to advertise your available offerings before, during, and after the conference. Your donations will be included in a raffle to offset a portion of the conference costs.

CAGGNI hopes you will please consider supporting this event for the greater Chicagoland genealogy community and receiving a beneficial advertising opportunity for your organization.

For more information on the conference please visit https://caggni.org/GeneaQuest2026.

Thanks in advance for your support,
CAGGNI GeneaQuest 2026 Committee

Donors will be acknowledged as follows:

Your organization’s name and/or logo featured as a prize donor:

Listed on the CAGGNI GeneaQuest website with a link to your website.
Listed in the attendee syllabus with a link to your website.
Displayed on screen in the Dining/Exhibitor Hall during check-in, breaks, and lunch.

Questions? Please contact: exhibitors@caggni.org.

If you wish to be a conference sponsor, including levels with an available exhibitor table at the conference, please visit https://caggni.org/event-6557206.

Computer Assisted Genealogy Group of Northern Illinois (CAGGNI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and Illinois America 250 Program Partner. For more information https://caggni.org/.

GeneaQuest 2026: Platinum Sponsor Registration (18 Jul 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 13:00:00 GMT

GeneaQuest 2026: Platinum Sponsors

GeneaQuest 2026: CAGGNI‘s 7th biennial conference on Saturday, July. 18, 2026, will be at the Wojcik Conference Center at Harper College in Palatine, IL. The conference is a one-day, in-person event, featuring speakers offering a wide range of genealogy topics of interest to all skills and interest levels.

Sponsorship will give your organization the opportunity to support an educational event and to advertise your available offerings before, during, and after the conference.

Platinum Level is a $250 donation, which includes:

Highlighted sponsorship of a speaker’s presentation, which will be prominently featured in the conference schedule and the introduction of the session.
One exhibitor table and one lunch for your representative. *
Your organization’s name and/or logo featured as a Platinum Sponsor:

Listed on the CAGGNI GeneaQuest website with a link to your website.
Listed in the attendee syllabus with a link to your website.
Custom full-page advertisement in the CAGGNI GeneaQuest syllabus.
Custom full-screen slide advertisement displayed on screen in the Dining/Exhibitor Hall during check-in, breaks, and lunch.

* Lunches for additional representatives can be purchased during registration.

If you wish to donate Raffle/Door Prize(s), please visit https://www.caggni.org/event-6557216.

GeneaQuest 2026: Gold Sponsor Registration (18 Jul 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 13:00:00 GMT

GeneaQuest 2026: Gold Sponsors

Sponsorship will give your organization the opportunity to support an educational event and to advertise your available offerings before, during, and after the conference.

Gold Level is a $150 donation, which includes:

One exhibitor table and one lunch for your representative. *
Your organization’s name and/or logo featured as a Gold Sponsor:

Listed on the CAGGNI GeneaQuest website with a link to your website.
Listed in the attendee syllabus with a link to your website.
Custom half-page advertisement in the CAGGNI GeneaQuest syllabus.
Custom full-screen slide advertisement displayed on screen in the Dining/Exhibitor Hall during check-in, breaks, and lunch.

* Lunches for additional representatives can be purchased during registration.

If you wish to donate Raffle/Door Prize(s), please visit https://www.caggni.org/event-6557216.

GeneaQuest 2026: Silver Sponsor Registration (18 Jul 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 13:00:00 GMT

GeneaQuest 2026: Silver Sponsors

Sponsorship will give your organization the opportunity to support an educational event and to advertise your available offerings before, during, and after the conference.

Silver Level is a $50 donation, which includes:

One exhibitor table and one lunch for your representative.
Your organization’s name and/or logo featured as a Silver Sponsor:

Listed on the CAGGNI GeneaQuest website with a link to your website.
Listed in the attendee syllabus with a link to your website.
Displayed on screen in the Dining/Exhibitor Hall during check-in, breaks, and lunch.

* Lunches for additional representatives can be purchased during registration.

If you wish to donate Raffle/Door Prize(s), please visit https://www.caggni.org/event-6557216.

GeneaQuest 2026: Bronze Sponsor Registration (18 Jul 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 13:00:00 GMT

GeneaQuest 2026: Bronze Sponsors

Sponsorship will give your organization the opportunity to support an educational event and to advertise your available offerings before, during, and after the conference.

Bronze Level is a $25 donation, which includes:

Your organization’s name and/or logo featured as a Bronze Sponsor:

Listed on the CAGGNI GeneaQuest website with a link to your website.
Listed in the attendee syllabus with a link to your website.
Displayed on screen in the Dining/Exhibitor Hall during check-in, breaks, and lunch.

If you wish to donate Raffle/Door Prize(s), please visit https://www.caggni.org/event-6557216.

CAGGNI August 2026 Newsletter Deadline (23 Jul 2026)

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMT

We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

We would especially welcome:

Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
Family stories.
Preparation for library or archive research trips.
Research methodology and techniques.
How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology.
What’s ahead in computer technology.
Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

(Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

Reunion Special Interest Group - 1 Aug 2026 (01 Aug 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Reunion Special Interest Group - 1 Aug 2026

Today's Topic: TBA

More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

SIG Lead: Bruce Christopher

CAGGNI SIGs are for members only.

Historical Special Interest Group - 13 Aug 2026 (13 Aug 2026)

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Historical Special Interest Group - 13 Aug 2026

The CAGGNI Historical SIG will explore these important topics.

Today's Topic: TBA

More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

SIG Lead: Alan Wilson.

Alan is a CAGGNI past president and SIG leader.

CAGGNI SIGs are for members only.

Keeping up with FamilySearch (15 Aug 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Keeping up with FamilySearch

by Maureen Brady

More details to come...

Maureen Brady, a former school librarian and computer educator, has 40 years experience with family history research. She has traced her Scottish roots back to the end of the 17th century and beyond, and has also pursued Chicago and the Midwest, the trans-Allegheny U.S., Quebec, Irish and Swedish research. Maureen has made numerous presentations to genealogical societies, libraries, conferences and workshops throughout the U. S., as well as presenting for the Brigham Young University Library family history webinar series.

She is a member of the Genealogical Speakers Guild, as well as a life member of the Aberdeen and Northeast Scotland Family History Society and the Ohio, Chicago and McHenry County (Illinois) Genealogical Societies. She is also active in the Kentucky, Middle Tennessee and Lake County (Illinois) Genealogical Societies, the British Interest Group of Wisconsin & Illinois , and the Chicago Scots Genealogical Group.

DNA Special Interest Group - 15 Aug 2026 (15 Aug 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

DNA Special Interest Group - 15 Aug 2026

(Rescheduled DNA SIG meeting from 18 Apr 2026)

Today's Topic: TBA

Do you have a topic or speaker for the DNA SIG? Please reach out to Michelle at with your suggestions.

About the DNA SIG

This group focuses on learning the methods for analyzing DNA test results. We study topics such as autosomal DNA, mitochondrial DNA, Y-DNA and surname projects, X-DNA and ancestral admixture results. We'll also investigate third-party tools for analyzing your raw data and comparing DNA and gedcom data with test kit results from companies besides the one you tested with.

DNA can break down genealogical brick walls once thought impenetrable – but only if you know how.

This SIG endeavors to be interactive and welcomes your questions. Get ready to put your DNA results to work for you!

SIG Lead: Michelle Wilson

Future Topics: If you have a topic you would like to present or see presented, please reach out to Michelle at DNA @ caggni.org.

Today's Venue: TBA.

Meeting Style: This SIG is typically hybrid. For the optimal experience, join us live at the live venue. Remote joiners can join using the link for the DNA SIG on the Zoom Links page. You will need to be logged in. When Zooming, please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown.

CAGGNI September 2026 Newsletter Deadline (23 Aug 2026)

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT

We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

We would especially welcome:

Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
Family stories.
Preparation for library or archive research trips.
Research methodology and techniques.
How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology.
What’s ahead in computer technology.
Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

(Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

Board Meeting - 31 Aug 2026 (31 Aug 2026)

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Board Meeting - 31 Aug 2026

All members of the Board of Directors are requested to be present for this meeting.

CAGGNI members are welcome to attend.

Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

Family Tree Maker Special Interest Group - 5 Sep 2026 (05 Sep 2026)

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Family Tree Maker SIG - 5 Sep 2026

This interest group was originally formed to provide a forum for Family Tree Maker users to share their knowledge and build their expertise with Ancestry's FTM desktop software.

This group continues to explore old and new features of Family Tree Maker software, now with developer MacKiev.

SIG Lead: Alvin Holtzman

Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

The Journey: Mapping Your Ancestors (19 Sep 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

The Journey: Mapping Your Ancestors

by Carla Zimowsk

Come trace your ancestors’ journeys across oceans, rivers, or along city streets using modern mapping tools like Google Earth, ArcGIS, and genealogy software. This talk explores powerful mapping resources—including Chicago-specific collections—and demonstrates how to overlay historical and current maps to visualize ancestral neighborhoods, migrations, and the landscapes that shaped your family’s story.

Carla Zimowsk, a native Chicagoan, has been researching family history for over 20 years. A graduate of Rutgers University, she holds a certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University. Carla has 25 years as technology manager for the history department at Princeton and is published in the Chicago Genealogist.

CAGGNI October 2026 Newsletter Deadline (23 Sep 2026)

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT

We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

We would especially welcome:

Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
Family stories.
Preparation for library or archive research trips.
Research methodology and techniques.
How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology.
What’s ahead in computer technology.
Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

(Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

Technology Special Interest Group - 8 Oct 2026 (08 Oct 2026)

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Technology Special Interest Group - 8 Oct 2026

Today's Topic: TBA

More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

SIG Leads: John Stryker and Eric Vavra

CAGGNI SIGs are for members only.

Roots Magic / The Master Genealogist SIG - 10 Oct 2026 (10 Oct 2026)

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Roots Magic / The Master Genealogist Special Interest Group - 10 Oct 2026

The RM + TMG SIG is for members interested in the operation and features of the computer programs for genealogy databases RootsMagic and The Master Genealogist.

SIG Lead: Larry Olson

CAGGNI SIGs are for members only.

Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

Threads of Green: Chicago’s Irish Immigrants (17 Oct 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Threads of Green: Chicago’s Irish Immigrants

by Meghan Moran

The Irish have emigrated to Chicago since its inception. We will discuss the waves of Irish immigrants, what drew them to Chicago, and tips to trace your Chicago Irish ancestors back to the homeland.

Meghan Moran is a librarian and genealogist. She has been studying genealogy and family history for nearly 20 years. She is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists.

DNA Special Interest Group - 17 Oct 2026 (17 Oct 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

DNA Special Interest Group - 17 Oct 2026

Topic: DNA Case Study (Title To Be Announced)

Presenter: Eric Vavra

Description To Be Announced

About the DNA SIG

DNA can break down genealogical brick walls once thought impenetrable – but only if you know how.

This SIG endeavors to be interactive and welcomes your questions. Get ready to put your DNA results to work for you!

SIG Lead: Michelle Wilson

Future Topics: If you have a topic you would like to present or see presented, please reach out to Michelle at DNA @ caggni.org.

Today's Venue: TBA

CAGGNI November 2026 Newsletter Deadline (23 Oct 2026)

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 05:00:00 GMT

We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

We would especially welcome:

Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
Family stories.
Preparation for library or archive research trips.
Research methodology and techniques.
How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology.
What’s ahead in computer technology.
Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

(Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

Reunion Special Interest Group - 7 Nov 2026 (07 Nov 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Reunion Special Interest Group - 7 Nov 2026

Today's Topic: TBA

More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

SIG Lead: Bruce Christopher

CAGGNI SIGs are for members only.

Historical Special Interest Group - 12 Nov 2026 (12 Nov 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Historical Special Interest Group - 12 Nov 2026

The CAGGNI Historical SIG will explore these important topics.

Today's Topic: TBA

More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

SIG Lead: Alan Wilson.

Alan is a CAGGNI past president and SIG leader.

CAGGNI SIGs are for members only.

Introduction to Genograms (21 Nov 2026)

Sat, 21 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Introduction to Genograms

by Jennifer Holik

Curious why you are who you are—and why your family carries certain beliefs, behaviors, and patterns? In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn how to create a basic genogram, a family-tree style tool that uses symbols to reveal inherited themes. Discover how to identify generational patterns and gain deeper insight into your family story and yourself.

Jennifer Holik has the rare ability to uncover lost or silenced family history or military stories and see how those experiences shaped family patterns across generations. She bridges rigorous research with deep ancestral and trauma-informed insight, helping people transform inherited pain into understanding, healing, and reclaimed story.

CAGGNI December 2026 Newsletter Deadline (23 Nov 2026)

Mon, 23 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

We would especially welcome:

Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
Family stories.
Preparation for library or archive research trips.
Research methodology and techniques.
How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology.
What’s ahead in computer technology.
Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

(Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

Board Meeting - 30 Nov 2026 (30 Nov 2026)

Tue, 01 Dec 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Board Meeting - 30 Nov 2026

All members of the Board of Directors are requested to be present for this meeting.

CAGGNI members are welcome to attend.

Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

Family Tree Maker Special Interest Group - 5 Dec 2026 (05 Dec 2026)

Sat, 05 Dec 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Family Tree Maker SIG - 5 Dec 2026

This interest group was originally formed to provide a forum for Family Tree Maker users to share their knowledge and build their expertise with Ancestry's FTM desktop software.

This group continues to explore old and new features of Family Tree Maker software, now with developer MacKiev.

SIG Lead: Alvin Holtzman

Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)