Brief History
The Grand Prairie Genealogical Society was formed in the fall of 1967 by several patrons of the Grand Prairie Memorial Library. The first years formed a solid foundation for this organization now celebrating more than 55 years.
The “DAR Patriot Index” was the first book our organization gave to the library,
who placed them in a barrister bookcase, for security. By 1970 the collection of
research materials had grown significantly and a proposal was made to the library
that a separate section be established. By 1971 GPGS had purchased a reader and
40 rolls of microfilm and various books for the library. Over the years, the Genealogical Society
and it’s members have compiled and published a number of books. Donating research materials
to the genealogical section continues to be a major focus for the Society. Over the years, the Society
and the library have worked together to expand local research facilities and materials.
In addition to the materials provided to the library, the Grand Prairie Genealogical Society has
sponsored a number of workshops. The first workshop was “How to get started in Genealogy” held
on Saturday, February 3, 1968. A few in other years have included “Family Tree Climbing Can Be
Fun!” in 1977, A Civil War Workshop in 1988, “Organizing & Managing a Genealogical Project” in
1990, “Texas Our Texas” in 1997 and “A Day with Lloyd Bockstruck” in 2005. We have also enjoyed
countless informative programs by Librarians, Professional Genealogists, Authors and a wide
variety of other speakers at our monthly meetings.
As technology provides greater resources for research the Grand Prairie Genealogical Society
faces new challenges for resources, equipment and training.
