McHenry Public Library
Genealogy & Local History
October 2025

In this Issue

New Family Legacy Tree Webinars!
McHenry Public Library Genealogy Programs
Other Local Organizations' Programs
 
From McHenry Public Library's Genealogy Room
 
 Chicago Sun-Times Archive!
 
The McHenry Library now has access to the Chicago Sun-Times archives! The text version goes back to 1986, while the digital version goes back to 2006. While not distant history, the paper features articles that cover historical events, structures, and notable individuals. All you need to access this material is your McHenry Library card!   
       
  
New Family Legacy Tree Webinars!
 
MyHeritage has a nice selection of webinars available for viewing. Also, they are free to watch! They cover a variety of topics, from DNA to land records, school records, and much more. The webinars are updated frequently. However, in September, MyHeritage offers a 24-hour marathon of webinars in the fall known as Webtember. Even if you don't have a MyHeritage membership, be sure to check out these great free resources.  
 
 
 
 McHenry Public Library Genealogy Programs
 
 
Sneak Peak! Discover The New Mayflower Silver Books Collection.
 
November 8, 2025 @ 10am
  
 
Hosted by the McHenry Library and
the McHenry County Genealogical Society
 
Be Sure To Sign Up Here!
Registration Starts on Oct 20 @ 9 am
 
Join the McHenry County (Illinois) Genealogical Society and the McHenry Public Library for a look at the Mayflower Silver Books. The Illinois Mayflower Society recently donated a set of Silver books to be held in the McHenry Library's Genealogy room. This is the largest collection of Silver Books in the area. These books can go up to 8 generations of Mayflower descendants and are a must if you are interested in your Mayflower ancestors/early colonial history. 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Local Organizations' Programs
Purple Hearts Reunited: Honoring The Past
Saturday, October 18, 10:30 AM
Computer Assisted Genealogy Group of Northern Illinois (CAGGNI) 
The Purple Heart medal is one of the higher awards given by the military for service and is awarded when a soldier is wounded during a conflict. Sometimes personal situations separate the medal from its recipient. PHR's mission is to provide the research which reconnects the medal to its family. Enter a volunteer genealogist.
Join me as I walk through the research done on 3 recipients of the Purple Heart, the things learned and the thrill of the solution
The Heroic True Story of the 12 Navy Nurse POWs
Monday, October 20, 2 PM
Wauconda Area Public Library
In 1941, twelve U.S. Navy Nurses were taken prisoner of war in the Philippines by the Empire of Japan. They were soon transferred to a civilian concentration camp in Manila. Under the direction of Chief Nurse Laura Cobb, the nurses maintained rank and provided tireless care to thousands of inmates. In 1943, the nurses bravely agreed to transfer to a countryside prison camp where they would be the only medical care providers. In the new prison camp, the nurses built an infirmary and bravely stood up to guards to protect their patients. This true and inspiring story tells of 12 nurses whose heroism saved thousands of lives. 
 
Woodstock Local History Walking Tour
Monday, October 20, 4 PM
McHenry County Genealogical Society
Join library staff for a walking tour of the downtown Woodstock area. We will begin our walk in the neighborhood of Woodstock Public Library and learn about some of the historic nearby homes, as well as their past inhabitants. Then, we’ll continue our walk and learn the fascinating history of the historic Woodstock Square, including the history of the Old Courthouse, Opera House, and much more. The entire tour will take approximately 90 minutes, and 1 mile of walking. 
In case of cancellation due to inclement weather, the tour will take place on Wednesday, October 22 at 4:00pm. 
Free and open to the public. Registration is required. 
Genealogy Interest Group
Sunday, October 26, 1:30 PM
Cary Area Public Library
The Genealogy Interest Group meets on the fourth Sunday of each month, unless otherwise noted.  We welcome any and all interested persons who would like to share their genealogical research or who would like to learn more.  
From McHenry Public Library's Genealogy Room
Illinois Historic Farms: Honoring Our Enduring Heritage of Family-Owned Farms Vol. 1
 
A history and overview of Illinois agriculture statewide and by region. The history of the Illinois Centennial and Sesquicentennial Farm program, including award criteria, selection process, and roster of recipients. Histories and photographs submitted by award-winning farm families. (Acclaim Press)
McHenry Public Library
809 Front St.
McHenry, Illinois 60050
815-385-0036

www.mchenrylibrary.org