Founded in 1988 at the historic CSPS Hall in Saint Paul, Minnesota, the Czechoslovak Genealogical Society International (CGSI) has grown into a vibrant community of genealogy enthusiasts dedicated to preserving and sharing Czech and Slovak heritage. What began as a small branch of the Minnesota Genealogical Society with just 20 members has evolved into an international organization with over 2,000 members across the United States, Canada, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and beyond. Following the Velvet Revolution in 1989, interest in tracing ancestral roots to "the old country" exploded, and CGSI rapidly expanded to serve this growing community. Incorporated in 1991 and granted 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 1992, CGSI became fully independent and has since established itself as a trusted resource for learning, sharing, and connecting with fellow descendants. The organization's mission centers on three core values: Learn, Share, and Connect. Members actively volunteer to respond to research requests, maintain genealogical collections, publish educational materials, and organize cultural events and festivals throughout the year. CGSI's commitment to community engagement extends to providing free research assistance, hosting quarterly programs and webinars, and maintaining an inclusive online platform where members can collaborate and exchange discoveries. By fostering meaningful connections among people united by their Czech and Slovak heritage, CGSI continues its legacy of helping families discover their past and strengthen their cultural identity.
Saint Paul, MN