Polish Genealogical Society Of America
The Polish Genealogical Society of America plays a vital role in preserving the family histories of individuals with Polish ancestry. Founded in 1978, this all-volunteer, non-profit organization offers a wide range of services from surname databases and research tools to educational programs and international collaboration. Its work connects people to their roots in Poland, Lithuania, Ukraine, Belarus, and beyond, ensuring that the stories of past generations remain alive today.
Origin and Mission
The society was established on August 23, 1978, and is headquartered in Chicago. Its mission is to collect, organize, preserve, and disseminate information on Polish and PolishAmerican family history.
Non-profit and Volunteer-Based
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the PGSA operates entirely through volunteer efforts. There are no paid staff, and every dollar contributed supports the society’s mission funding educational programs, databases, and genealogical tools.
Membership and Community
The society boasts thousands of members across the United States and in more than ten countries.
- The quarterly journalRodziny, featuring topics, translations, and research tips
- Monthly enewsletter Genealogy Notebook
- Webinars and local chapter events throughout the year
- Discounts on books, publication, and research services
Local Chapters
PGSA includes affiliate chapters like the Polish Genealogical Society of Massachusetts and Connecticut, each offering local events, cemetery transcription, and document indexing.
Publications and Resources
Central to the PGSA’s offerings isRodziny, a 32-page quarterly journal that covers a range of topics including methodologies, translations, and local histories.
Specialized Tools
- Surname databases covering Poland, Lithuania, Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia
- Indexing of PolishAmerican records such as death notices and insurance claims
- Access to PMA Library collections in Chicago for on-site research
Education and Events
Education is central to the PGSA mission. The society hosts:
- Quarterly meetings and webinars addressing Polish research methods
- An annual conference featuring expert speakers and networking
- Workshops on topics like interpreting Polish civil and church records
Programs are accessible both inperson and online, enabling global participation.
Research Services
While PGSA is not a full-service research organization, it offers guidance and basic research assistance. Services include locating obituaries, village histories, surnames studies, and insurance death claim copies all provided at affordable costs.
Volunteering and Funding
Volunteers are essential to the society’s success. Members can contribute to data entry, indexing, webinar production, and publications {{cite}}. Donations by credit card, PayPal, or mail help sustain vital services and expand offerings such as webinars, database growth, and expert speakers.
Collaborations and Partnerships
Working with the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America, the Polish Museum of America, and other genealogical societies, PGSA enriches shared projects like cemetery transcription, record preservation, and research beyond US borders.
Notable Achievements
PGSA has recognized outstanding contributions through awards like the Wigilia Award. In 2000, Judith R. Frazin received the honor for herTranslation Guide to 19thCentury PolishLanguage CivilRegistration Documents, underscoring the society’s support for essential research tools.
Supporting Polish Heritage and Diaspora
The society actively fosters community and cultural awareness. Through partnership with genealogical societies in Minnesota, Texas, Michigan, and New York, PGSA encourages regional collaboration and shared learning. Their newsletter celebrates traditions, regional history, language learning, and social events.
Why It Matters
The PGSA offers invaluable resources for anyone tracing Polish roots. Its comprehensive tools, volunteer networks, and historical archives help uncover family stories and preserve cultural legacies. These efforts promote identity, connection, and appreciation of Polish heritage in North America and beyond.
The Polish Genealogical Society of America stands as a cornerstone for PolishAmerican genealogy. Through its volunteerdriven structure, educational programs, rich publications, and global partnerships, it provides an indispensable platform for uncovering ancestral ties. By maintaining archives, supporting researchers, and celebrating shared heritage, PGSA ensures that the stories of Polish ancestors remain vibrant and accessible for generations to come.