Genealogical Society seeking family histories

Members of the Phelps County Genealogical Society are seeking family histories that will be compiled into a book available later this year.

The book, once completed, will be the third volume in a collection of stories from Phelps County families about their history.

Two previous volumes were published in 1992 and 1994. Volume 1 was about 480 pages, while Volume 2 was a little bit smaller.

The stories received so far for Volume 3 will only make a small-sized book unless more families come forward.

“I believe we’ll have a good variety this time,” said Catherine Bell, chairman of the Volume 3 edition.

Bell said a few stories about Civil war encampments along with photos from that time will be included.
Even if families no longer live in Phelps County, they can still include stories about their ancestors who lived in this area.

Families also can update their histories if they were included in the one the previous volumes.

When the previous two volumes were released, genealogical society volunteers said they heard many complaints, such as “I don’t see anything about my family lines. How come?”

In order to be included, a family must submit the information to the genealogical society.

Histories can include information about when ancestors came to Phelps County, marriages, children, military service, hobbies, businesses that were handed down to generations among other relevant information.

There is no cost to include a family history in the book.

“They can come up here (to the genealogical society) and do some research and we’ll be happy to help them with their stories,” said Ruth Adair, corresponding secretary with the genealogical society.

Volunteers are available at the Phelps County Genealogical Society research room at the Old Courthouse, located at 308 Third St., Room 7, every Tuesday from 12:30-4:30 p.m.

People who can’t come to the room at those times can call 573-364-9597 to make an appointment.
Families can submit stories of up to 500 words for free. Each additional word cost 15 cents, but there are some exceptions.

One photo can be included free with each story and there is a $15 fee for each additional photo. It is suggested that people submit copies of old or original photos along with names of individuals in each photo. All photos will be returned.

The deadline to be included in “The Phelps County, Missouri Heritage Book, Volume 3” will be Friday, Aug. 31.

That week prior to the deadline, the research room will be open that Tuesday, Aug. 28, as well as Friday, Aug. 31, from 12:30-4:30 p.m.

Acclaim Press in Morley will publish the book.

People also may preorder Volume 3 now for $54.95. After the books are published, that cost increases. Order forms are available in the genealogical society’s research room.

Along with Bell and Adair, other individuals who are helping with this book are Dorothy James, genealogical society president, Carolyn Tilford, Phelps County Historical Society president, Sandy Karmann, and Sheila Wood, genealogical society vice president and librarian.