The Western Springs Historical Society serves as an information resource on hundreds of families, past and present, that have lived and worked in the village. Historical information including newspaper articles, photographs, obituaries, wedding announcements, real estate ownership records, phonebooks and other donated materials are organized alphabetically for easy access. We are happy to assist individuals doing genealogical research. Please call the archives to schedule an appointment.
To get started at home, download our ancestor chart here, and follow the steps below. Get your children involved by printing our How to interview your Parents and Grandparents questionnaire. Its a great activity to help your kids learn about and appreciate their past.
1. Start with yourself and work backwards one generation at a time, from the known to the unknown. Remember these 4 keys in identification and genealogical order proof: name, date, place and relationship. Go through all your family papers, diaries, photographs, birth and marriage certificates, etc. looking for evidence and clues.
2. Fill out an ancestor chart (also called pedigree chart) as far as you can. Then fill out a family group sheet for each couple on the chart.
3. Write or visit your relatives (perhaps with a tape recorder) to find out what they know and what family records they have. Be prepared; ask specific questions which will give you names, dates, places and relationships. Start with your oldest relatives, but don’t forget to your distant cousins. Family records may have been passed down through their branch of the family which you do not know of about. Carefully record and evaluate all information-treat as clues until you find proof. Proof is crucial to accurate genealogy.
Ekdahl Update
05/20/2008
The latest info on the restoration of the Ekdahl House. Read about it in the Doings.
Preservation Awards
04/29/2008
Nominations are being accepted for the 2008 Preservation Awards
Pajama Night
06/12/2008 5:59 PM