Special Interest Groups
Special interest groups provide an opportunity for members with a common interest to meet regularly to share information and experiences. Some groups meet each month before the General Meeting, and some meet at the Sahyun Library.
Until we resume meeting in person, the special interest groups meet virtually on Zoom. The events calendar and Tree Tips provide the schedule and the Zoom link.
Groups that meet monthly before the General Meeting
All special interest group meetings that accompany the General Meeting take place at 9:30 AM.
African-American Genealogy SIG Moderator: TBD
This group focuses on the history of Santa Barbara County’s African-American community.
We discuss how to begin your family history search and also some of the benefits of membership in the Society.
This group is for members researching the Civil War and/or wanting to join one of the lineage societies associated with the Civil War.
DNA SIG Moderator: TBD
If you are interested in using DNA testing to help your genealogical research, join us to learn strategies and tips.
Early California and Hispanic SIG Moderator: TBD
This group focuses on genealogical research into California history and settlement by Native Americans, immigrants, explorers, soldiers, pioneers, miners, and entrepreneurs, many of whom have ancestral roots in the populations arriving from Spain, South and Central America, and Mexico.
This group is for those who have an interest in exploring, learning and sharing their French-Canadian roots.
Join us to talk about anything having to do with genealogy … websites, software programs, webinars, blogs, brick walls, searching tips, etc. We attempt to use today's technology to solve yesterday's genealogy problems. All levels of genealogy ability are welcome.
If you’re researching German ancestors, join us for helpful ideas and resources.
If you have Irish ancestry or think you might have Irish Ancestry, you’re very welcome to attend.
If you’re interested in tracing Jewish ancestry, our monthly meetings are an opportunity to share information and tips.
Scandinavian Ancestry SIG Moderator: TBD
For experienced writers, writers with major writing blocks, and beginners. All are welcome.
Groups that meet at the Sahyun Library
Noon to 1:30 PM on the second Tuesday of each month.
Bring genealogy problems and other genealogy topics.
Noon to 1:30 PM on the third Friday of each month.
Bring your lunch and DNA questions.
On the calendar when scheduled.
This group is for those interested in connecting with others researching their Eastern European ancestors. Countries usually considered Eastern European (but not limited to) are Poland, Russia, Hungary, Lithuania, Ukraine, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and those countries associated with the Pale of Settlement. Religions include (but are not limited to) Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant (Lutheran), and Jewish.
On the calendar when scheduled.
Anyone with Italian ancestry or an interest in Italian genealogy is welcome to attend.
One-on-One DNA Assistance - BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Moderator: Paul Cochet.
Fridays or Saturdays, except holidays, by appointment only.
Santa Barbara County Genealogical Society DNA Project.
