The following news release is from Susan Covey, Publicity Chair for the Southern Indiana Genealogical Society:
Indiana is celebrating its 200th birthday this year and the Southern Indiana Genealogical Society (SIGS) offers a unique opportunity for people to participate in the state’s Bicentennial – through their genealogy. If you can verify direct descent from a pioneer living in Floyd, Clark, or Harrison County, Indiana, before 1841, you are eligible to join the “First Families Bicentennial Legacy Project.”
“First Families” honors the spirit and legacy of the early tri-county settlers, adds their life stories to the region’s rich historical record, identifies their direct descendants, and preserves those families’ histories. Approved applicants will receive First Families certificates and pins and be honored guests at the “Hoosier History and Heritage Celebration” in October. First Families is an official Bicentennial Legacy Project endorsed by the Indiana Bicentennial Commission.
You do not need to be a SIGS member or Indiana resident to join First Families. Project applications are online at http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~insigs/FF_2014/ffproject.htm. The deadline for submissions is August 1. For assistance with First Families research, email sigsvolunteer@gmail.com or call Melissa Wiseheart (812-949-3527) in the New Albany-Floyd County Public Library Indiana Room.
