Genealogical society wants to recognize early settlers

Many genealogical or historical societies offer a chance to recognize early settlers by submitting research to obtain that recognition. The McHenry County Illinois Genealogical Society offers such a program.

If your ancestor came to McHenry County between 1834 and 1880, they would love to add your family to the list of early settlers.

There are two levels of settlers - those who came between 1834 and 1850 and those who came after 1850 through 1880.

Many people came to this area from New York and other eastern U.S. areas, as well as many from other countries. It is a way to acknowledge their willingness to come to an unknown area and put down their roots.

Once the application is filled out with supporting documents, your ancestor chart will be filed to share with others.

The supporting documents usually are not shared. The applicant does not need to be a member of McHenry County Illinois Genealogical Society. There is a fee for both members and nonmembers.

The certificate can be easily framed and multiple copies are available so you can share with other family members. More information can be found on the website under "search records," then "Early Settlers," or visit the website at www.mcigs.org/early-settlers.html.

If you don't have McHenry County ancestors, you should check out the counties in which your ancestors lived and see if such a program exists with the local genealogical society.