Find out about your family history | News
When you know your family history, you have a stronger sense of self.
Those who are interested in doing that through genealogy will have a chance to join in at the Hopkinsville Christian County Public Library’s McCarroll Genealogy collection that can assist you in your family research. A four part series began last Thursday and will continue each week, every Thursday until April 7 beginning at 5 p.m. each week.
This free four part series is led by Becky Quinten, who is the Genealogy Librarian, and introduces participants to the McCarroll electronic and book collection, while also teaching family historians how to locate records of Civil Registration, and how to search your family history.
Quinten has a master’s degree in library science with special training in genealogy research and over 40 years of genealogy research experience. She shared the gratefulness it has been to be able to discover history for those who are curious to learn about their heritage.
“In my experience I have found that Genealogy is all about chasing your own tale,” said Quinten, “The McCarroll Genealogy Collection is one of the best open access physical collections in Western Kentucky and includes 28 states and international resources. It’s really exciting! I’ve had some wonderful experiences. There is true satisfaction in learning family history and making connections.”
The McCarroll Genealogy Collection was established by a perpetual trust in memory of Joe McCarroll by his brothers William McCarroll and Charles McCarroll. They were the sons of Judge Joe McCarroll, a prominent local attorney, and Mrs. Mary Holloway McCarroll. This history stretches outside of Christian County, covering 28 different states dating back to the 1600s from everything under the Sun such as guardian bonds, wills, yearbooks, among much more history. Quinten also noted having the records of both Murray State University and The University of Kentucky.
The next class will begin this Thursday, at 5 p.m. which will entail uncovering McCarroll Electronic Collection. Thursday’s class will require registration for computer reservations. The following session will take place on March 31 at 5 p.m. learning about Civil Registration Records and the final night of the four part series will take place April 7 at 5 p.m. discovering records search.
“A lot of people made this happen. We have several wonderful authors constantly working, constantly documenting. This collection here at the library is a reflection of our community. I am very proud of all the history we have. It’s truly a wonderful experience,” said Quinten. “It’s so important knowing your history. It can give a sense of self worth and confidence to those in search of answers. It’s amazing to have this type of history.”
This event is for all ages and skill level from the novice user to expert family history researcher. To register for one or all of the series, visit or contact the HCCPL McCarroll Genealogy Department, call 270-887-4262 x122 or email becky@hccpl.org.
