Explore Your Roots: A Visit to the Genealogy Center
By Nancy Kucharski
Planning a trip to explore your family history can be a rewarding experience and the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Library is the perfect place to start.
Located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, within the Allen County Public Library: the Genealogy Center is renowned for its vast collection of genealogical resources. From local and international records to specialized archives, it provides an unmatched opportunity to discover your family heritage and here are some reasons to plan your visit now.
1. One of the Largest Collections in the Country
Housed within the center are extensive collections of census records, historical newspapers, military documents, local histories and international resources. It’s vast microfilm and digital databases provide access to records that span centuries and continents. Visitors can take advantage of free access to many subscription-based genealogy websites, saving both time and money in their research.
2. Expert Assistance from Knowledgeable Staff
Experienced librarians, who are also genealogists, are available to guide visitors through their research. They can suggest strategies, help navigate difficult searches, and provide insights to overcome genealogical challenges. Looking for personal guidance and recommendations? Schedule a free one on one 30 minute consultation with a staff member whether your are just starting or you have been researching your heritage for years. Call 260-421-1225 or email genealogy@ACPL. Info for an appointment.
3. Educational Programs and Workshops
The Genealogy Center offers regular workshops, classes, and programs on topics such as DNA testing, archival preservation, and advanced research techniques, helping both beginners and seasoned researchers enhance their skills.
4. Niche Databases
You can access for free on-site websites like Ancestry, Family Search and others but using a combination of niche databases can help deepen your research and reveal unique documents that mainstream genealogy sites may not capture.
Some of the databases available include: The African American Gateway, Archives Unbound: The Civil War in Words and Deeds, Canada’s Heritage from 1844-The Globe and Mail, Indigenous Newspapers in North America, My China Roots, Jewish Newspapers and more.
5. The Allen County Public Library
Beyond the Genealogy Center, ACPL houses the Lincoln Collection. This resource is an incomparable repository for information on the life of Abraham Lincoln. You can access thousands of books, photographs, documents and other resources related to Abraham Lincoln and his times. The Rolland Center for Lincoln Research features interactive displays and a 360 degree video presentation. Need a break from your genealogy research? Stroll through the Jeffrey R. Krull Gallery which offers various mediums of art from local and worldwide artists.
As a native Clevelander living in the second largest city in Indiana, I can attest that Fort Wayne offers that big city, small town feel with affordable attractions to enhance your visit. Check out visitfortwayne.com to plan your getaway.
The Genealogy Center at ACPL allows you to connect with your past, piece together your family tree, and discover the people and places that shaped your story. Discover even more at http://genealogycenter.org/ or acpl.lib.in.us
So whether you’re starting your family tree or diving deep into archival research, the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library is a destination that makes discovering your roots both accessible and inspiring.
