Tapping Into Your Roots: Bigfork Library’s New Genealogy Classes
Flathead County is proud to support our libraries as they expand their offerings and find new ways to connect with the community. One of the exciting additions is the genealogy classes now available at the Bigfork Library. Since October, these classes have been offered on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Whether you’re new to genealogy or have been tracing your family tree for years, these classes provide an incredible opportunity to dive deeper into your ancestry.
Genealogy isn’t just a pastime—it’s the second most popular hobby in America, right behind gardening! Online tools like Ancestry.com, FamilySearch, and 23andMe have made genealogy more accessible than ever. While some services require paid subscriptions, FamilySearch is completely free, making it an invaluable resource for those looking to uncover their roots.
The passion behind these genealogy classes is truly inspiring. Volunteers from the Kalispell Family Search Center, including Susie Hill and Diane Denney, dedicate their time simply because they love helping people connect with their history. “We love what we do, and we love to share it—and that’s an understatement,” Susie Hill stated during a Tuesday class. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and their knowledge is invaluable. Each participant has access to a computer or tablet, and the volunteers patiently walk them through setting up a free FamilySearch.org account, building their family tree, and learning research techniques.
During a recent class, attendees marveled at the extensive archives available—birth, marriage, and death certificates, immigration and military records, and even old newspaper clippings. The system automatically connects users with potential relatives, opening doors to incredible discoveries.
The Kalispell FamilySearch Center will guide you on an extended journey to uncover more of your ancestors. These classes are about more than just names and dates; they’re about stories, connections, and understanding the past that shaped who we are today. Whether you’re uncovering a long-lost family branch or learning more about the lives of your ancestors, genealogy is a deeply personal and rewarding journey.
We encourage everyone to take advantage of this free resource at the Bigfork Library, located at 186 Bridge St. Join a class, start your family tree, and experience the thrill of discovering your heritage. Who knows what fascinating history you’ll uncover.