About the Society
Allow us to introduce ourselves! HCGS is a non-profit organization founded in 1976, providing education and support to fellow genealogists and other interested people in the study of family history and the preservation and collection of genealogical records, and assisting local libraries in developing their genealogical collections.
In December 1976, twenty-one “graduates” of the Howard Community College adult education class in Genealogy taught by Columbia resident, Connie Catania, decided to "keep a good thing going". They formed the Howard County Genealogical Society and constituted its Charter Members with the mission of supporting and encouraging the study of family history, or genealogy. Over its 50-year existence it has doggedly pursued this mission by collecting and publishing Howard County genealogical records, presenting lectures and programs on genealogy and local history, encouraging new members and assisting local libraries in developing their genealogical collections. HCGS currently has about 120 members.
If you are interested in the fellowship of others who share your interest in family history, the HCGS can offer you a very supportive, compatible climate. In addition to monthly meetings with knowledgeable guest speakers and presenters, we do have many opportunities which encourage your participation — special interest groups, committees, seminars, and more.
Society Leadership
Officers
July 2025 - June 2026
Officers
Standing Committee Chairs
Special Activities
A Bit of History ...
The Genealogy of HCGS
A Brief Timeline of HCGS - The Early Years
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A brief look at the startup of the Howard County Genealogical Society, including the founding, some early activities, awards, and productions.
HCGS - A Partial Program History 2010-2016
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A partial Program History for the society, from 2010 through 2016. Good examples of the programs, speakers, presentations, and events that occurred over a seven year period. How do these Programs compare to today's programs? What went right? Or wrong? Should we bring back any of these issues?
The Founding Mothers & Fathers of HCGS
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These are the folks, the genealogists, the society of classmates and friends who founded the Howard County Genealogical Society in 1976. Our thanks to them!
Governance
Society Directives & Guidance
Bylaws of the Howard County Genealogical Society
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The Howard County Genealogical Society is governed by a set of By-Laws specific to our organization. They have been modified and enhanced over our more than a half century of existence, hopefully for the better. Select the button below to view this document.
HCGS Fiscal Year Calendar
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A calendar by month showing HCGS required activities throughout the year. Not extensive or detailed, it is a reminded of timelines and actions required.
HCGS Policy & Procedure Manual
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This is the HCGS Policy & Procedure Manual. Becuase of the Organization structure, Policies and procedures are generated as needed then housed for reference in this document.
HCGS Standing Committees Document
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This document represents the order of business of the Standing Committees of the Howard County Genealogical Society and their responsibilities.This is the current version of that documentation.