Our History

The African-American Genealogical Society, Cleveland, Ohio (AAGS). Member of FGS (Federation of Genealogical Societies) and NGS (National Genealogical Society)

In 1990, twelve avid African-American genealogists formed a societal research group to:

Assist novice historians in beginning their family research
Facilitate networking among African-American researchers who share a common heritage and culture
Promote African-American genealogical studies among the larger community

This was done at the encouragement of the Western Reserve Historical Society located in Cleveland, Ohio. The African-American Genealogical Society, Cleveland, Ohio has grown steadily, and now includes novice researchers, as well as experienced genealogists, all sharing the common bond of genealogical pursuits.
Membership is open to anyone interested in genealogy and family history. Members share their experiences and knowledge within the society and the general public at large.
AAGS and its members conduct presentations, seminars and workshops for a variety of local and national audiences -- communicating information and research strategies from basic through advanced levels.

Our beginnings: The society was originally formed as the fourteenth chapter of the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society (AAHGS) prior to becoming an autonomous group in 1994. AAGS is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization and member of FGS and NGS.