The Czech & Slovak American Genealogy Society of Illinois
About The Czech & Slovak American Genealogy Society of Illinois
Founded in Sugar Grove, Illinois in 1996, the Czech & Slovak American Genealogy Society of Illinois emerged from a passionate community need to preserve the heritage and stories of Czech and Slovak Americans. What began with a founding meeting at a private home in Brookfield has grown into a thriving organization with worldwide membership, guided by the mission to develop, preserve, and share genealogical, historical, and cultural knowledge of Central European ancestors. The society's commitment to community service is evident in its volunteer-driven model—from the dedicated individuals who staff the genealogy collection at Riverside Public Library to the 100 volunteers who indexed Bohemian National Cemetery burial records. CSAGSI has been led by six presidents since its inception, each contributing to the organization's steady growth and expanding impact. The society honors its heritage through its distinctive logo featuring the heraldic shields of Bohemia, Moravia, Slovakia, Ruthenia, and Silesia, symbolizing the diverse regions represented by its members. Over two decades, CSAGSI has hosted cultural, historical, and genealogical programs attracting 80 to 180 attendees per meeting, creating meaningful connections among people sharing common ancestry. The organization's publications—including specialized indexes and historical translations—have become invaluable resources recognized throughout the Czech and Slovak community. By combining rigorous genealogical work with cultural celebration, CSAGSI embodies its guiding principle: preserving Bohemian, Moravian, Slovakian, Ruthenian, and Silesian heritage to the utmost.