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RESEARCH AT YOUR FINGER TIPS

By Deborah Elvrom

The Juniper Branch of Family Finders, Inc. is a great spot to go when the desire strikes to search out one's past history. This non-profit organization, started in 1981, is operated by volunteers and donations.

Located in the office are books, periodicals, CD-Roms, microfilm and microfiche. Reference materials cover many states as well as some foreign countries. Members can use the equipment and research materials for free and non-members pay a minimal fee of $2.00 per day.

The Oregon Historical Society and Jefferson County records are well represented. The local paper, Madras Pioneer, can be found on microfilm from 1903-1999. Marriage, birth and funeral records contain a wealth of information for genealogical purposes. 

President Betty Boggs keeps busy as the organization leader. Dorothy Burgess  and Sharon Dodge often put on workshops and classes dealing with genealogical issues. Volunteer Letta Mae Cade has been a member since 1998 and is happy to answer any historical questions.    

The Juniper Branch of Family Finders, Inc. is hosting The Genealogical Council of Oregon's annual meeting and luncheon on April 17th, 2004 at the Odd Fellows Hall from 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Folks from statewide attend this event.  Steve Lent, Prineville author of "Place names in Crook County", will make a presentation.

Every other month volunteers meet to create the Juniper Branch Newsletter. This publication is packed with helpful hints and research ideas all geared toward assisting anyone interested in genealogy.

Research Library is located at 21 SE ‘D’ St. in Madras, OR 97741.  For more information call  541-475-9745  or visit www.jbff.org. Hours are: Monday - Wednesday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. -3 p.m.

Creating family history documentation can be a very rewarding and informative gift for generations to come!