Franklin County Genealogical Society
Host: Ginny Fields; Guest: Jana Capps and Don Easterling
At 110 East Main Street in Mt. Vernon, Texas, as part of the city square, the Franklin County Genealogical Society (FCGS) has two store fronts. One is devoted to a meeting space (The Crescent Building); the other becomes the treasure trove of information for any genealogist.
This second storefront holds the maps, family files, books, land records, probates and many other articles that tell the story of our ancestors in Franklin County, Texas. Both Jana Capps, the current president of FCGS, and Don Easterling, one of the volunteers, talk about their holdings during the podcast this month.
Several years ago, FCGS was gifted land abstracts in file folders. So far over 6000 have been digitized and more are being planned. These are all searchable on thumb drives available at the research center. FamilySearch has digitized several Franklin County books held by FCGS , and those are available through the online platform for FamilySearch.
The pride of FCGS is the family (surname) files. These are available for browsing. As the land abstract files are reviewed, information is being incorporated into the family files. These can be researched by request, but if individuals who visit FCGS in person they can search the family files themselves.
The storefront includes a browsable library that extends across the counties of Texas and other states. At FCGS individuals can utilize their computers and gain access to FamilySearch, Ancestry.com; Fold3 and newspapers.com.
FCGS recently absorbed many of the genealogical records from Titus County, Texas, when that genealogical society closed. Franklin County is hoping that more individuals with Titus County background will send their archives and books directly to the FCGS operation in Mt. Vernon for preservation.
FCGS has publications for Franklin, Hopkins, and Titus counties for sale both at the storefront and on online. Early settlers can become part of the “Franklin County First Family” program. Certificates recognize those who are direct descendants of those who settled in what is now Franklin County, Texas by 1880. With over 135 members, FCGS has created a must-see place for individuals that have Franklin County ancestors.
Hours: Monday through Friday 10 am to 4 pm; Saturday by appointment
Address: 110 East Main Street, Mt. Vernon, Texas 75457
Phone: 903-537-3931
URL: https://www.fcgensociety.org
Email: fcgenealogy21@gmail.com
(for requests)