Researching in Counties Surrounding Hamilton County

Elaine Kuhn introduces HCGS Members to new History and Genealogy Department

Last Saturday HCGS members had the opportunity to hear Elaine Kuhn of the Kenton County Library speak to us about "Hamilton County's Neighbors: Researching in the Surrounding Counties." Those of us involved in Hamilton County research have often found it necessary to track our elusive ancestors in nearby counties. It was not uncommon for early residents of Clermont County to relocate to Hamilton or Cincinnati Germans to move back and forth across the river to Kenton and Campbell Counties.

Elaine's talk made us aware of gems that may not have been obvious to those unfamiliar with the resources of surrounding counties. She even included a "not to be missed" suggestion of places to visit after completing your research. With Elaine's permission, I am including her list of libraries and societies for the seven counties that surround Hamilton and their links.

Butler County, Ohio

Libraries: 

• Smith Library of Regional History
• Butler County Records Center and Archives

Societies: 

• Butler County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society
• Butler County Historical Society

Warren County, Ohio

Libraries:

• Edna L. Bowyer Records Center and Archives of Warren County
• Mary L. Cook Public Library

Societies:

• Warren County Genealogical Society
• Warren County Historical Society

Clermont County, Ohio

Libraries:

• Doris Wood Batavia Branch, Clermont County Public Library

Societies:

• Clermont County Genealogical Society
• Clermont County Historical Society

Campbell County, Kentucky

Libraries: 

• Steely Library, Northern Kentucky University

Societies:

• Campbell County Historical & Genealogical Society

Kenton County, Kentucky

Libraries:

• Kenton County Public Library

Societies:

• Kenton County Historical Society

Boone County, Kentucky

Libraries:

• Boone County Public Library

Societies:

• Boone County Historical Society

Dearborn County, Indiana

Libraries:

• Aurora Public Library
• Lawrenceburg Public Library District

Societies:

• Dearborn County Historical Society

Submitted by: Kathy Reed

Hamilton County's Neighbors

The New History and Genealogy Department
Photo Credit: Kenton County Library
Used with permission

This Saturday, September 21st, the Hamilton County Genealogical Society will kick off the 2013-14 season. Librarian Elaine Kuhn of the Kenton County Library will discuss the wonderful materials that are available to Hamilton Co. researchers just across the river in Covington, Kentucky.

Many early Cincinnatians lived on both sides of the river in the 19th Century, especially those of German descent. The population of the time was quite fluid, looking for jobs, cheap housing and churches that made them feel more at home. Those with Catholic ancestors are particularly fortunate as many of the early births, deaths, baptisms and marriages are available on microfilm. In addition the library has many resources including City Directories, online resources, historical newspapers and pictures, and even an online index of patients who were hospitalized at the "old" St. Elizabeth hospital. (I've personally uncovered some real gems from that resource).

For more than a year, the Kenton County Library has been undergoing a major remodel. A new second floor addition section is completely devoted to History and Genealogy. You can park directly across from the library in a public parking garage. Just remember to bring your ticket to the library to be scanned for free parking. This program will begin at 11:00 AM. You may want to stay and take advantage of all the library has to offer. Hope to see you then.

 

You can read more about the renovations by clicking on this link to the Kenton County Library blog.

Submitted by Kathy Reed