The Whittier Area Genealogical Society (WAGS) was founded on May 16, 1981, to meet the needs of those in Whittier and the surrounding communities who are interested in genealogy and family history. We offer monthly educational meetings featuring prominent genealogists, bimonthly writers group meetings, an annual seminar with presentations by nationally known genealogical lecturers, and research assistance to those exploring their roots in the Whittier area. WAGS members receive our monthly newsletter, WAGS Family Tales, and email notifications of all our events. Members also have access to exclusive "Members Only" content on our website and are occasionally offered discounts on genealogy-related products.
We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization run entirely by volunteers. We are funded through membership fees, donations, and our annual seminar. Our monthly meeting and writers group are open to all at no charge.
We invite you to attend our meetings, participate in our Writers Group, explore our website, and take advantage of our other services to the genealogical community.
We hold a virtual Annual Seminar on the last Saturday in January each year. This event features three nationally known genealogical speakers discussing topics of general interest to anyone who is exploring their family history and genealogy.
Mission Statement
The purpose of the Whittier Area Genealogical Society shall be:
- To provide a genealogical society for the people of the greater Whittier area.
- To encourage and stimulate interest in genealogy.
- To provide interesting educational programs.
- To develop and execute genealogical projects.
- To provide a center for the exchange of surnames and genealogical materials.
- To respond to questions from people outside the area regarding local genealogy and the history of the Whittier area.
Guiding WAGS through 2025-2026:
| BOARD OF DIRECTORS | |
| PRESIDENT | Kristina Newcomer |
| PROGRAM DIRECTOR | Christine Cohen |
| MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR | Brian Swanson |
| SECRETARY | Tracy Collins |
| TREASURER | Donna Aguirre |
| NEWSLETTER EDITOR | Rick Frohling |
| PUBLICITY DIRECTOR | Cyndy Hartman |
| PARLIAMENTARIAN | Gerhard Schaefer |
| SEMINAR DIRECTOR | Marilyn McCarty |
| COMMITTEE CHAIRS | |
| HOSPITALITY DIRECTOR | Ruth Wash |
| HISTORIAN | Marisa Reyes |
| RESEARCH DIRECTOR | Trish Stumpf-Garcia |
| WEBMASTER | Rick Frohling |
