Our Editor Beth and I enjoy researching and producing the Wilkes Genealogical Society bulletins, but our favorite part is when the community contributes. Beth’s father, one of the Society’s founders and its original editor, physically assembled the bulletins through hard work—without the conveniences of computers or the internet. He knocked on doors, gathered stories, and built each issue manually. It was truly a labor of love. Today, Beth carries on her family tradition as editor, keeping the Society’s flame alive, now with the added benefit of digital tools. We need and value your contributions.

As for me, I’m a digital curator—my self-appointed title. I manage the Society’s website and assist with assembling the bulletins based on the content Beth provides. While I don’t have roots in Wilkes County, NC, I deeply admire the county’s history, pride, and perseverance.

The best articles come from Wilkes County-related family sources. Contributions from descendants near and far add variety and provide primary material that other researchers can rely on. Over the years, families worldwide with ties to Wilkes have enriched our publications with their stories and photos.

Beth is always on the hunt for new material. She welcomes anything related to Wilkes genealogy and history—family stories, photos, old documents, or other unique finds. Please ensure you have permission for us to publish any submissions. Contributions are invaluable, but donations also help us continue our mission—tap the donation button on our website!

Genealogy and history are a never-ending processes. Publishing your research or family stories through the Society is a meaningful way to leave a legacy. Our publications are housed in libraries worldwide, where they serve as resources for future researchers. Some of our publications have even been cited in academic works. Imagine your great-great-grandchildren discovering your contributions someday!

We believe history and genealogy should be accessible. Unlike organizations that restrict access or charge fees, we make our publications available to the public. You can read them for free at our local library’s research room or purchase copies to support our ongoing mission. This openness ensures family histories are preserved and shared rather than lost to time.

The Wilkes Genealogical Society relies on volunteers, contributors, and donors in order to remain relevant and keep the Society alive. Sadly, many societies have dissolved due to lack of funding or interest, but with your help, we continue to thrive. Thank you for your ongoing support!

If you’d like to contribute an article, photos, or other material to our 2025 bulletins, please contact us. We also publish donated books and family histories, placing them in library collections and offering them for sale to the public.

Contact us at: Contact Editor – Wilkes Genealogical Society
Together, we can preserve and celebrate Wilkes County’s remarkable history.