Unlocking the Keystone State

Genealogical researcher Chris Staats will be the guest speaker at the Cuyahoga West meeting on Nov. 18.

Resources and repositories for Pennsylvania family history research

Pennsylvania can be a confusing, unfamiliar genealogical landscape, especially for those who have searched for vital records only in Ohio. A limited run of records, courts of confusing names, and lack of easy access to the documents can quickly frustrate someone new to Pennsylvania research.

Chris Staats, a professional genealogical researcher, presenter, and writer who has honed his research skills primarily in early Ohio, Pennsylvania and Delaware public records, will be the guest speaker at the Nov. 18 meeting of Cuyahoga West Chapter, Ohio Genealogical Society, at Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road. 

Mr. Staats will give an overview of the most commonly used Pennsylvania records, where to find them, and how to use them. Chris says that “more and more resources are becoming available online, and access to those that are not is easier than ever. There is no need to feel locked out,” when it comes to obtaining Pennsylvania vital records. His presentation will help open the door, providing a gateway to your Pennsylvania ancestor’s past. 

The public is invited to attend at no cost. Program begins at 7 p.m.  Social time, with refreshments, is from 6:30-7 p.m. For additional information visit rootsweb.ancestry.com/~ohcwogs or email cuyahogawest@gmail.com.