Sunday, March 26, 2017

South Bend, Indiana: It's More Than Just the Golden Dome

When you think of South Bend, Indiana, of course you think of the large golden dome at the famous Notre Dame University.  But, South Bend is more than the Fighting Irish. It's so much more.

image of Notre Dame University, www.images.google.com


AncestorStuff.com had the chance to tend a table at the St. Joseph County Library in South Bend, Indiana this past weekend.  The South Bend Genealogical Society held it's conference there.

The vendors and the attendees were very nice and we really enjoyed our stay.

We learned so much about the South Bend area, which has a rich history that has it's many historical resources right there at the St. Joseph County Library. http://sjcpl.lib.in.us/

St. Joseph County Public Library, South Bend, Indiana, www.images.google.com


After speaking with the member of the library that was representing this nice facility, I learned about the vast collection of resources available to the public regarding local history and Indiana newspapers. They also house lots of resources for history and genealogy from all over the United States, too.  The library is relatively newer, and the staff is first rate.  Take a look at their on-line catalog of holdings.  Don't hesitate to send a message to the reference staff.  They are very knowledgeable, and can help to break down some family tree walls.

I also spent some free time looking over the several tables used by the South Bend Genealogical Society to display free copies of past publications of their quarterly newsletter.  These dated back to the 1980s, up to present day.

South Bend Genealogical Society logo, www.sbags.org


The society has a rich history, and has been very involved with preserving the history of South Bend and the surrounding area.  The website, http://www.sbags.org/main.htm, has photographs, maps and databases, including lists of links to many resources for your Indiana research and beyond.

The South Bend society also sells some nice books and DVDs.  Take a look at their store http://www.sbags.org/store.htm.  Purchases from their organization help to support the society and it's many projects and on-going programs for the public.

Indiana celebrates 200 years of statehood, images.google.com