Katharine Garstka

Topic Editor - Genealogy
Katharine Garstka - W.R. Garstka
Katharine Garstka - W.R. Garstka

I am a life-long researcher and writer, and for the past ten years, a genealogist. I specialize in U.S. heritage, especially Southern, and in research for lineage society applications. I have an interest in Polish history, culture, and genealogy. Although in general not a sports fan, I make the exception for Formula 1 racing, which gets me up early on Sunday mornings during the season. Other hobbies include collecting ceramics: Wedgwood jasperware, British Royalty commemoratives, and Mexican folk art.

I hold a B.A. in English from U.C.L.A. and a Master’s in Library Science from the University of Arizona. I have attended genealogical seminars at the Institute for Genealogical and Historical Research (IGHR) at Samford University in Birmingham, and after completing the National Genealogical Society’s American Genealogy course, I served as a grader for two lessons. I have also completed the four-day Genealogy Consultant training program at the DAR Library in Washington, D.C.

I am a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, the National Genealogical Society, and Alabama Genealogical Society, as well as several lineage societies.

My genealogy website is here, and my genealogy and history blog is here.

Latest Articles

Ellis Island Still Needs Restoration
Twenty-one years ago the main Immigration Building was restored and developed into a museum, but there are 29 more buildings still falling into ruins.
Dec 1, 2011 - Katharine Garstka
Arlington National Cemetery to Provide Photos of Grave Markers
In the wake of the disturbing admission that the cemetery's records are in an appalling disorder, there is some good news for genealogists.
Oct 27, 2011 - Katharine Garstka
History for Genealogists, by Judy Jacobson: A Book Review
"History for Genealogists: Using Chronological Time Lines to Find and Understand Your Ancestors" is a unique compilation of historical information.
Sep 29, 2011 - Katharine Garstka
Ancestry Adds Sons of the American Revolution Applications
SAR membership applications from 1889 to 1970 are some of the latest additions to the Ancestry.com website and a useful source for new applicants.
Aug 30, 2011 - Katharine Garstka
Touring the Historic Pee Dee Country of South Carolina
Named for the Pee Dee River, the Pee Dee area of South Carolina is known for cotton, tobacco, and the meteorite craters known as Carolina Bays.
Jul 17, 2011 - Katharine Garstka
Boston University Offers Two Online Genealogical Programs
Boston University now has two choices for online genealogical education - a 15-week certificate program and a new four-week introductory program.
Jul 16, 2011 - Katharine Garstka
Break Through Your Genealogical Brick Wall: Study History
Many beginning genealogists who start tracing their ancestors hit a brick wall fairly early. Getting beyond that wall may require hitting the history books.
Jun 25, 2011 - Katharine Garstka
New Week-Long Summer Genealogy Program in Pittsburg Set for 2012
The Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (GRIP) has just announced four week-long classes to be held on the campus of La Roche College next summer.
May 7, 2011 - Katharine Garstka
The Southern Ancestry of Julia Dent Grant, President Grant's Wife
Julia Grant, the wife of the Union Army's greatest general, was the descendant of several generations of Southern plantation owners, the Dents of Maryland.
Apr 16, 2011 - Katharine Garstka
Planning a Genealogy Trip: Make Your Own Guide Book
Tourist guide books often don't provide much help when it comes to planning a genealogy trip, but you can make your own customized book before you leave.
Mar 30, 2011 - Katharine Garstka