Exploring Roots: Kingman FamilySearch Discovery Day Unites Community

KINGMAN, AZ – This past Saturday, the Rutherford Building of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints buzzed with enthusiasm as more than 80 local residents gathered for the Kingman Stake FamilySearch Discovery Day. From 9 AM to 12 PM, attendees, ranging from seasoned genealogists to newcomers curious about their family history, participated in a series of 20-minute workshops. The event was a collaborative effort with the Lewis Kingman Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Mohave County Genealogical Society.

The day was filled with learning and interaction, aimed at making the exploration of family history both informative and enjoyable. Participants moved between workshops with light refreshments in hand and were encouraged to bring their devices to engage directly with online resources.

The Kingman FamilySearch Center, known for its commitment to connecting people with their past through access to genealogical records, played a pivotal role in the event. The center's mission complements the efforts of the Daughters of the American Revolution, which focuses on historic preservation, education, and patriotism, and the Mohave County Genealogical Society, a small group of genealogical enthusiasts dedicated to family history research.

The event offered a platform for directors, instructors, and attendees to share local resources, their personal experiences, and the joys of genealogical discovery.

"We loved to see the light in the eyes of those participating as they learned ways that they could connect with future generations and discover the lives of their ancestors," noted Doug and Charrea Camacho, Directors of the Kingman FamilySearch Center. "Our family is such an important part of who we are. When we learn about them, we also learn who we are too."

Shelly Rigsby, an instructor at the event also shared her thoughts: "I have been working on my own family history and helping others with theirs for many years. There is something everyone can do from writing your own history, scanning photos and documents to cleaning up your family tree and getting to know your family."

Attendees were equally moved by the day's events. "I sure have wonderful feelings about today's event and about unlocking the door for my kindred dead, my close relatives, long deceased relatives, and for the many lives I have been able to do their work," said Terry Luer. "Family history work has provided an avenue for me to grow."

The event also showcased family history displays, adding a visual storytelling element that enriched the experience for those present.

As the community of Kingman continues to delve into its past, the success of the FamilySearch Discovery Day promises more such gatherings in the future, each aimed at further tightening the bonds of community through shared histories and collective learning.

For those interested in uncovering their own stories, the resources provided by the Kingman FamilySearch center, along with the ongoing support from the Lewis Kingman Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Mohave County Genealogical Society, offer valuable starting points.

To learn more about the Kingman FamilySearch Center and the Kingman Stake Latter-day Saints, find them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/share/mcJdkLLtoJgoW9FW/?mibextid=WC7FNe

*Submitted by: Kingman Stake Latter-day Saints