Submitted by Linda Schmidt: Member since 2017
Submitted by Linda Schmidt: Member since 2017
This is the wedding photo of my husband’s paternal grandparents, Ed Schmidt and Hazel Carpenter, married on September 28,1914. Lawrence Welk grew up with the bride and groom and played at their wedding. Ed’s brother, Homer, was a member of Welk’s band and played the drums. He later had his own band, called the Bohemian Band, but unfortunately, he never made it as big as Lawrence Welk.

The Contra Costa County Genealogical Society (CCCGS) connects family history enthusiasts across the East Bay and beyond. We help members explore their roots through educational programs, practical research tools, and a shared passion for discovering the stories of our ancestors. Join us to connect, learn, and be inspired by your family’s past.
 
Monthly Genealogy Presenters via Zoom
Our evening meetings, conducted via Zoom, showcase guest presenters who delve into compelling genealogical topics. Open to both members and the public, these sessions are free of charge with registration required for attendance. Visit the Events page for more information and registration links. Recordings of presentations are available to members only. 
 
Time and Date: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. (Pacific Time), 2nd Thursday of each month (except August and December).
 
Descendants Newsletter
Our newsletter, Descendants, is exclusively available to CCCGS members. Published ten times per year, each issue features an array of content—feature stories, historical insights, topic-driven photo essays, and a calendar of CCCGS-hosted events with registration links.
Feedback, ideas, and suggestions for the newsletter are always welcome at Newsletter@cccgs.net
 
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Stay connected between meetings! (Click on the link or icon to join the conversation)

Facebook Page – Follow our public page for CCCGS announcements, event reminders, genealogy news, and society highlights. It’s the best way to stay up to date with what’s happening at CCCGS

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Facebook Group – Join our interactive group to share discoveries, ask questions, and connect with fellow genealogy enthusiasts in a friendly, collaborative space. 
 
 

Upcoming Events
November 12
"Marriage by Blacksmith: Gretna Green Marriages" with Madeline Yanov
Madeline will delve into the origins of Gretna Green’s popularity and unravel the stories behind its American counterparts. What motivated people to journey far from home to exchange their vows? ...

January 14
"Finally Get Organized: Conquer the Clutter Using Your Natural Learning Style" with Elizabeth O'Neal
  Tried every organizing system for your family history and none of them stuck? That's because most advice assumes that everyone learns the same way. Spoilers: they don't, and neither ...

February 11
"Your Ancestors Are Lying To You" with Jennifer Dunn
  Sometimes the clues our ancestors leave behind only tell part of the story, or obscure the truth altogether.  Using genealogical methods, we will learn about the most common ...

March 11
"Genealogy From The Russian Empire" with Sarah Busse Spencer, Ph.D.
  Sarah’s presentation will include some historical context (and maps) and the type of records commonly met with in the various countries which were once part of the Russian ...

April 8
"Listening to the Voices of Our Ancestors" with Megan Reilly Koepsell
  When it comes to genealogy and discovering details about the lives of our ancestors, we tend to chalk similar experiences up to coincidence and luck. But is that ...