Genealogy For All
Workshop Series & Resource Bus Tour
Event Recap
The United States Semiquincentennial is the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence which will occur on July 4, 2026. In 2023, Gov. Moore asked Marylanders to participate in an inclusive observance of the 250th Anniversary that recognizes all Marylanders’ struggle for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness before, during, and after the Revolution. In Prince George’s County, the Anacostia Trails Heritage Area (ATHA) together with its partners at the Prince George’s Department of Parks and Recreation (PGParks) and the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) convened the PGC250 group to create a space for conversation and collaboration to spark ideas and partnerships to creatively illustrate and interpret our region’s contributions to American history. The theme the group chose: “We the People.”
In order to explore this theme, ATHA together with the Prince George’s Historical Society, Prince George’s County Genealogical Society, Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc., Prince George’s County Maryland Chapter (AAHGS-PGCMD), PGParks Marietta House, and PGCMLS hosted a four-part series to explore the world of ancestry, with three virtual workshops and a bus tour of local genealogical research locations.
This series was aimed at people who are new to genealogy research, seeking comradery in their research, or were interested in learning different perspectives to historical narratives. Enjoy the event’s recap and photos below!
PGC250 Genealogy Series By the Numbers
- 4 events
- 1 bus
- 132 total RSVPs
- 9.5 hours of research content
- 30.1 miles driven
Event 1: Made You Look: Genealogy Research 101
The genealogy series kicked off with an introductory virtual workshop on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., lead by Heather Olsen, the Vice President of the Prince George’s Genealogical Society. Watch here.
Event 2: Finding Family Veterans with a focus on the Revolutionary War: Genealogy 201
On Wednesday, February 4th, Craig R. Scott, MA, CG, FUGA, President and CEO of Heritage Books, Inc, lead the second workshop in the series, focusing on veterans. Watch here.
Event 3: Researching Your Roots: Genealogical Research 201
In the final virtual workshop, on Thursday, February 19th, Nathania Branch Miles, the Recording Secretary of AAHGS-PGCMD introduced their society and provided insight on researching African American ancestors. Watch here.
Event 4: Genealogy Research Bus Tour
On Saturday, March 7th, interested parties came together for an in-person bus tour to local sites with resources for research.
The tour started at the Hyattsville Branch Library’s Prince George’s Room, where the librarian, Hannah Erickson, showcased the Prince George’s Room where they have historic newspapers, magazines, journals, photos, and other records pertaining to the lives and livelihoods of many Prince Georgians.
Then, everyone got on the bus to Prince George's County Historical Society’s Frederick DeMarr Library, where Donna Scheidner, President of the Historical Society discussed how they operate, what they can help with, and provided attendees with a tour of special collections.
At the next stop, Marietta Historic Site & Museum, participants were provided lunch while listening to Dr. Julia Rose’s presentation on the work that they have done on the genealogy of the enslaved people who lived at Marietta. Their database can be found by visiting https://www.pgparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Marietta-House-Museum-Enslaved-Individuals-Database-SHARE-2025.pdf.
The final stop was at the Prince George's County Genealogical Society, who boast a library of genealogical resources and books organized by state and county. The enthusiastic group were able to learn more about the hours of operation, virtual meetings, and many began research!
This series concluded at the Hyattsville Branch Library. Thanks to all of our partners who helped make this event a success!
Bus Tour images
