Welcome to CCGS
The Carroll County Genealogical Society President and Board would like to welcome the many researchers to our website that was created for you, our members and the public, in pursuit of genealogical research. Our informational offerings are rich and we continue to grow our digital content. As we work to improve the historical records offered at our site we hope that you will join us if you are not a current member. Enjoy the site, explore and research. Be sure to check our listings of Educational Programs and Community Outreach events at the bottom of this page and our Photo Gallery (under About Us).Genealogical research is rewarding and we hope that you find your experience with us positive and will return often as you research.
What's New
Revolutionary War Patriot Research
Our newest resource is a Revolutionary War Patriot Research Guide that will walk you through several resources to learn more about your patriot ancestor of the Revolutionary War. This guide is fairly Maryland-centric and was prepared by John Laycock, Westminster Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (July 2026). If you are researching patriot ancestors in other states you may need other resources not available in this guide. This can be found under the Research menu.
Research Thursdays
Research Thursdays are from 1 to 4 PM, at the Westminster Branch of the Carroll County Public Library. During this time research assistance is available and provided by CCGS volunteers. It is always helpful to let us know prior to your visit what your research goals are so that we can be prepared. Our collection is available during the regular library hours and with a brief orientation, you can use these resources more easily.
If it is not possible for you to visit on Thursday afternoons, please contact us at research@ccgsmd.org so that we can make alternative arrangements.
We look forward to having you visit and use our collection.
Volunteer Opportunities
We have many opportunities for volunteers, so if you have some time available, consider joining us. As we add to our collection and try to improve access for researchers, we have projects for all levels of skill.
Of course, helping researchers is rewarding. You will also get to know what is in our collection and improve your skills. We have many organizational needs, such as keeping the books on our shelves filed correctly, doing inventories, repairing resource materials and helping with events (e.g., greeting, making displays, set ups, take downs).
Interested? Drop us an email at info@ccgsmd.org and let us know how you would like to help.
Join CCGS
Annual Membership Fees
- $20 Individual Membership
- $25 Family Membership (two members per household)
FREE Student Membership (13 or older full-time student)
Member Benefits
- Research assistance at a reduced fee
- The Carrolltonian, our quarterly newsletter
- Access to Member-Only website content
Upcoming Events
Click on the picture or program title to get more information
NOTE: At the conclusion of our Educational Programs, a video of the program is posted on our Facebook page for viewing at any time. Often presenters allow us to make available handouts from their presentation for CCGS Members. These are found on the Files for Download page (under Members).
Educational Programs
They Will Not Be Forgotten
Finksburg Library, 2265 Old Westminster Pike, Finksburg, MD 21048
Armand Kinslow, will discuss the book he has written from his research which began as a genealogical searching that revealed eight generations of relatives who served in the major wars of their eras.
B&O Railroad's Role in the Underground Railroad
This program will be presented via Zoom. Link will be provided in advance.
Jonathan Goldman, Curator of the National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation (formerly the B&O Railroad Museum) will discuss the B&O Railroad's role in the Underground Railroad.
Criminals, Convicts, and Outlaws: How to Find Your Black Sheep Ancestors
The program will be presented via Zoom. A link will be provided in advance.
Rhonda Casler, a Genealogist and Historian from Buckeye Roots Genealogy Services, will guide us though the process of discovering our families black sheep.
Two Lesser Known Genealogical Resources in Anne Arundel County
This program will be presented via Zoom. A link will be provided in advance.
Carol Carman will introduce us to two lesser known genealogical resources in Anne Arundel County; the Maryland State Law Library in Annapolis and the Kuethe Library in Glen Burnie.