The Seeleys had a wonderful time together at our Seeley Genealogical Society Reunion in San Diego! We enjoyed learning, visiting, sharing, and growing together. It was wonderful that so many of us could be at the reunion. We all enjoyed the area, but we enjoyed being together even more.
I want to thank the 2019 SGS Reunion Committee. Patricia Palmer, Kelly Findley, Margaret Petersen, Jesse Crisler, Kathie Olsen, Camille Bell, Jim Seeley, LeAnne Seely, Linda Crocker, and I worked hard to make our reunion a big success. Most of the committee members were able to meet in San Diego in January of 2018 to explore the area, find sites and speakers, and plan tours. From that time forward, committee members have shared ideas, made connections, and discussed possibilities to create this wonderful conference. Thank-you, Committee, for all you did before and during the Reunion.
The headquarters for the Reunion was at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Old Town San Diego. This historic hotel began as a hacienda built by Juan Bandini in the 1830s. Albert Lewis Seeley purchased the hacienda in 1869, added a second story, and transformed it into the Cosmopolitan Hotel. The hotel and all of Old Town are part of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
We had sixty-seven members register for our Reunion from eleven different states. They attended many different meetings, activities, and meals. The barbecue dinner at the Mormon Battalion Visitors’ Center had the largest group attending with over eighty-five people.
Our theme for our 2019 SGS San Diego Reunion was “Saddle up Seeleys. California Here We Come.” The Seeleys surely did come, and we are so glad!
Our Reunion started with a Board meeting on Wednesday, June 26, 2019, in the Bandini Room of the Cosmopolitan Hotel. The Board not only discussed the details of the meetings and activities, but also the Seventh Generation Book, research, membership, website, Reunion Souvenir Book, and standing committees. We discussed the creation of a committee to update the SGS Constitution and voted on a recommendation for the site of the 2021 Reunion. I want to thank the SGS Board. They do so much in their individual jobs all year and then come together to discuss SGS successes and concerns and make policies that Board members hope will strengthen the Seeley Genealogical Society.
After the Board meeting, we joined other members at the Coyote Restaurant in Old Town for a tasty Mexican dinner. There were almost forty members attending. At 8:00 pm we had planned to have a welcoming meeting at the Cosmopolitan Hotel, but there only were four of us present. Because attendees were finishing their dinners and arriving late in San Diego, we decided to skip the meeting and let members meet and visit with each other in small groups.
Thursday morning, June 27, was our first session of the Reunion. After a welcome, we all enjoyed singing the darling and well written song, “San Diego, Here We Come.” The song was written and directed by our talented and enthusiastic member Lou Ann Crisler. Our members loved the song and loved singing it!
After welcoming everyone and giving an overview of our reunion, we were pleased to have Jesse Crisler introduce illustrator, painter, and author Laura Seeley. Laura gave each of us two white sheets of paper. One had a larger oval drawn on it and the other a smaller one. Laura had us begin with the paper with the larger oval. With her step-by-step instructions, we were each able to draw an adorable Teddy bear. Laura then guided us through drawing a Dalmatian starting with the smaller oval. We were all surprised and pleased at how well we had done and how each of us had created a very good drawing. Laura teaches art in schools and taught us well. We loved how she guided us. Laura then talked briefly about her books and individually autographed books for all those who wanted them.
After the break, we were glad to hear our SGS members talked about how Seeleys were involved in the history of San Diego and California. Mary Ann Kirk, dressed in a pioneer costume, gave an interesting description of the history of the Mormon Battalion, how the men of the Battalion made a positive impact in the San Diego area, and how a Seeley was part of it. Mary Ann and her husband, David, are serving as missionaries at the Mormon Battalion Visitors’ Center. Our members went to the Center that evening to hold a barbecue dinner. Mary Ann wanted our members to understand the history of the Mormon Battalion before we visited the Center.
Camille Bell and Annette Earl enthusiastically informed us about the adventures of Seelys in the San Bernardino area. In 1851 Brigham Young asked almost five hundred members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to travel from Salt Lake City to lower California and settle it. Members of the Seely family were among them. David and Mary Pettit Seely and Justus Wellington and Clarissa Jane Wilcox Seely were part of this group. My great-grandfather John Henry Seely was born in San Bernardino. In 1857, when the United States Army marched into and camped in Salt Lake City, Brigham Young asked the members to come back to Utah. Because Mary liked San Bernardino, David and Mary decided to return to San Bernardino are buried there. Camp Seely still exists in the hills above San Bernardino.
We enjoyed hearing Patricia Palmer talk about her great grandparents Albert and Emily Seeley who built and ran the Cosmopolitan Hotel. Patricia told us about their family and them. Albert had a stagecoach business, built the stables and carried mail between San Diego and Los Angeles. Patricia also gave us copies of her talk and articles from the Cosmopolitan Chronicle written about “True tales from the annals of history, archaeology, construction and restoration of the Casa de Bandini & Cosmopolitan Hotel.”
Jesse Crisler gave an informative history of the Seelys and the Gold Rush. David and Justus Wellington Seely and their families were part of a company of 50 wagons sent by Brigham Young to San Bernardino. They mined for a while there. Then David and others went to Los Angeles and on to San Francisco and the gold fields. They joined men from the Mormon Battalion and members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who were present when gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill. David and many others went back to Salt Lake City with their gold. This was an important infusion of wealth into the struggling Utah economy.
Delicious box lunches were provided each day during the reunion. Camille Bell arranged and picked up the lunches. They were varied, tasty, and appreciated by our members.
After lunch on Thursday, our members enjoyed a fun historic tour of Old Town guided by Lou Ann and Jesse Crisler and Camille Bell. They were all dressed in pioneer costumes. We met in front of the Cosmopolitan Hotel and walked around the square as they skillfully and happily described the different buildings, their functions, and their histories. Members learned interesting facts about each site. At the Seeley Stable, we were joined by Mary Jones and Roy Backman, representatives of the Old Town State Historical Park. This was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Old Town. We really enjoyed our tour!
The Thursday night dinner was a barbecue in the picnic area of the Mormon Battalion Visitors’ Center. Dave Petersen prepared a delicious pulled pork dinner with all the trimmings. Dave’s family helped him organize things. Dave Peterson is Margaret and Ken Petersen’s son. We are grateful to Dave for coming from Victorville and making our tasty dinner. We had the largest attendance of the reunion at this event.
After dinner we moved inside to the theater. Patricia Palmer introduced Linda Jacobo and Connie Gunther from the Descendants of Early San Diego who attended dinner and spoke briefly to our members. Patricia then introduced our speaker Nicole Turner, Associate State Archaeologist for California State Parks, who expertly described the restoration of the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Old Town. She showed us many pictures highlighting the different stages of the restoration. Nicole did a wonderful job of describing the restoration. We loved her photos. Thursday was a very nice day at our Reunion in San Diego.
Friday morning turned out to be quite an adventure. We were able to see for ourselves the things that Nicole Turner had talked about the night before. Patricia Palmer started the morning by introducing Nini Minovi who is the California Department of Parks and Recreation’s Cosmopolitan Hotel Archaeological Project Leader. Nini spoke briefly about the restoration of the hotel and then split us into groups. One group went with Stephen Van Wormer, historical archeologist with specialty in interior and exterior walls, who talked about the excavation of the exterior walls and showed us pictures of the excavation. A second group went with Eric Minella, Director of Historical Interpretation of Old Town San Diego. Eric took us to different hotel rooms and showed us how they were updated, while still keeping their historical significance. A third group went with Foresta Von Kurt, a surface designer who specialized in historical building. Foresta talked about and showed the different kinds of surfaces at the Cosmopolitan Hotel and how they were restored. Nini took the last group. She guided us to an opening between floors where we climbed a ladder to see how the original stairs were constructed. She took us all around the inside and outside of the building describing what the hotel was like originally and how it had been restored. Nini showed us a new stage sign they were painting outside and a large new sign for the Cosmopolitan Hotel that would be lifted into place by a crane that very afternoon. Eric and Nini both told us how grateful they were that the Seeley Genealogical Society held its reunion at the hotel because they had been asking for the new signs for a long time and received permission to create them when they knew the Seeleys were meeting at the Cosmopolitan Hotel. We were so sorry that the Cosmopolitan sign could not have been put up on Thursday when we were at Old Town all day. Some members did see the sign go up, but most of us had to see it when we returned from our harbor cruise.
After lunch, our members headed to the San Diego Harbor for a full tour of the bay. We took a Flagship Two-Hour Cruise of San Diego Bay. We saw the Star of India, Harbor Island, Shelter Island, the North Island Naval Air Station, bait barges, and the Cabrillo Monument when we went north. The boat turned around and went south where we saw the U.S.S. Midway aircraft carrier, the Naval Amphibious Base, and Tuna Town. We also cruised under the Coronado Bridge. Our naval veterans really enjoyed seeing the ships and reminiscing. It was a most pleasant voyage and a lovely afternoon. Thanks to Camille Bell for organizing this!
That evening our members enjoyed a delicious fiesta buffet dinner on the Cosmopolitan Hotel patio. It was a pleasant evening filled with good company and food. We went back into the Salsa Room, where we had been meeting, to hear Susi Pentico speak. Jim Seeley introduced Susi. She is with the San Diego Genealogical Society and Chula Vista, California, Genealogical Society. Susi spoke about the relationship between genealogy and health. Susi reminded us that when we are doing genealogy, dates and places are not as important as knowing more about people. Friday was a good day at the SGS Reunion!
Saturday morning, we held our General Membership Meeting. We heard from our SGS Officers, held an election for upcoming officers, voted on the 2021 SGS Reunion site, and took a group picture outside on the steps of the Cosmopolitan Hotel.
Patricia Palmer read the minutes of the 2017 Membership Meeting and they were approved. Patricia has worked hard on the Reunion Committee, both before and during the Reunion. First Vice President and Communication Director Paul Taylor does so many things for SGS. Paul is editor of the Newsletter, updates the SGS Facebook page, and oversees the redesign of the SGS Website. Second Vice President Jesse Crisler has been very active on the 2019 Reunion Committee. He co-edits the Newsletter and has been very helpful before and during the reunion. Treasurer Margaret Petersen gave a financial report of SGS funds. She works hard to keep accurate records. She was also an active member of the 2019 Reunion Committee. Chief Genealogist Linda Crocker answers queries, co-chairs the Ancestry File with Chris Havnar, and was an active member of the 2019 Reunion Committee. Terry Tietjens is the Director of the Seelye Mansion and the Seelye Research Center. Terry reported the activities at the Mansion and updates at the SRC. Wesley Waring is the chair of the Research Committee. He reported that we have done a great deal of research with Bruce Murduck and Apryl Cox. The Research Committee is now looking for new avenues of research and is interested in helping members with their ancestry lines which dead end. SGS Director and Historian Ruthetta Hansen talked about how her grandfather helped build the Seelye Mansion and how she volunteers at the mansion and the Seelye Research Center. Past President and Acting Parliamentarian Kathie Olsen also talked about SGS. Kathie has been very helpful on the 2019 Reunion Committee. Librarian of the Seelye Research Center and CD-ROM Project Manager Pam Turner spoke to the members about the CD-ROM being reproduced and available. Pam also talked about all the work she has done on the Seventh Generation Book to correct errors. Pam has included a list of errata in the book and also rewritten the foreword. When her work is complete, Pam will get the Seventh Generation Book printed and available for $35.00. New Membership Chair Jim Seeley is very concerned with the declining membership of SGS, as we all are. He is sending out surveys to all members to ask their feelings about SGS. He will categorize responses so that the data can be analyzed. Jim and the Board are hoping this will give us new ideas about getting new members and retaining the ones we have. Connie Birth has graciously volunteered as the Assistant Membership Chair to help Jim with this project.
I made the final report of the meeting. As President, I am a member of every committee. The 2019 Reunion Committee has taken a great deal of my time this year. I met with the Reunion Committee in January 2018 in San Diego and also with the Board in Abilene, KS, in April 2018. I have worked with Wesley Waring, Kathie Olsen, and Apryl Cox with our Research Committee, as well as Paul Taylor, Logan Seelye, Chris Havnar, and Linda Crocker on updating the Website. I have conferred with Pam Turner about CDs and books. I am involved with all the workings of the Seeley Genealogical Society. I so enjoy working with every officer and member. You are great people!
I have really enjoyed being your President. It is a lot of work, but I am glad to serve the Seeley Genealogical Society. It is a great organization! Each of you members can make it even better. You are wonderful people and dear friends. Thanks for all you do and can do.
I thanked Marie Seelye for all of her hard work as our Membership Chair since 2015. She did a great job. We have missed Walt and her at this reunion. I am grateful to Jim Seeley for taking over membership matters and for Connie Birth for helping him.
I also thanked LeAnne Seely for creating the wonderful 2017 SGS Parkersburg Reunion Souvenir Book. That is a great deal of work, and she did a fine job. I am also grateful to Jesse Crisler for volunteering to produce the 2019 SGS San Diego Reunion Souvenir Book.
We were happy to honor Paul Taylor as the Outstanding SGS Volunteer of 2019. Paul is the First Vice President and Communication Chair. Paul has been our Newsletter editor since 2003 and has produced eight Reunion Souvenir Books. He oversees the Website. Paul has also been very valuable in advising me. Paul has done and is doing so many things for SGS. We thank him for all of his service to SGS.
After the presentation, the membership voted for the incoming officers.
The membership then voted to hold the 2021 SGS Reunion in St. Louis, Missouri. Stamford, Connecticut was also proposed. I officially adjourned our 2019 SGS General Membership Meeting by hitting the official gavel.
After a short break, Logan Seelye talked with us about the SGS Website. Logan is the Senior Web Designer for Pacific Lutheran University, an author, the director and founder of the 10 and 90 Foundation, a motivational speaker, the SGS Web Designer, and grandson of Daniel Seelye, a former President of SGS. Logan brought up our new Website on the screen and showed us how it worked. Logan praised Chris Havnar for transferring so much information from the old site to the new. Our SGS members really appreciate the work Logan has done and gave him ideas for things that could be added or changed. We so appreciated all the work Logan has done for us and for explaining so clearly the Website to us. Our website contains a great deal of information but still needs much to be transferred from the old site. If this is something you could do, please let Paul Taylor know.
After Logan spoke with our members, we all went outside and had our picture taken on the steps of the Cosmopolitan Hotel. We thank Paul Taylor for always taking such good pictures!
At every meeting and during breaks, Jim Seeley and his daughter Tammy George sold delicious treats and books along with chances of two beautiful quilts. John Seeley donated specialty popcorn, coffee and nuts for us to sell at the reunion. Seely Mint Patties were sold along with t-shirts, bags, and books. Carol Haddon and Toots Brundage each made and donated a beautiful handmade quilt to be raffled at the reunion. Thank-you to everyone who donated items for our fundraising at the reunion. Thank-you to Jim and Tammy for handling all of the fundraising activities. Fundraising went very well. Thank-you all so very much!
After lunch, the members were free to see San Diego on their own. Thanks to Jesse Crisler for putting materials in members’ packets describing the many things to do in San Diego.
The Board met at 4:30 p.m. to discuss and act on ideas generated during the Reunion. Committees were formed and assignments were made. Votes were taken. All of this will be available in the minutes printed in issues of the Newsletter. This is a great Board which works hard and has great ideas. Thanks to our Board members for all they do!
Saturday dinner was an American buffet. It was delicious and was served on the patio. We all enjoyed visiting with one another and the fun music. We again went into the Salsa Room for our meeting. Past President and now Membership Chair Jim Seeley installed the voting members of the Board.
We then enjoyed hearing from our final speaker, Logan Seelye. He told us how a tackle in a football practice changed his life. He fell on his neck, broke it, and could not move. He described his struggles to overcome his physical problems and get better each day. He worked very hard to strengthen his body and is still working each day to keep it strong. The doctors did not give Logan much hope of living a normal life, but he persisted until today he can not only stand but can also put his wheelchair in a car trunk and walk to the front of the car to drive it himself. He not only got better physically, but also educated himself to be a web designer. Logan has a very positive attitude and wrote a book about his experiences. Logan wanted to share his success with others and started the 10 and 90 Foundation to help others with problems find positive ways to solve them. Our members so enjoyed hearing his story of outstanding motivation and effort. SGS gave Logan a Life Membership in the Society. Logan is an amazing person. We are so glad that we could spend time with him and look forward to many more times in the future.
The 2019 San Diego Reunion was so fun! Members enjoyed each other and learned much from our wonderful presenters. We thank our outstanding presenters. We had delicious food with very good entertainment and tours. It was good to be with you marvelous members. I am very grateful for our Reunion Committee members and our officers. Thank-you all so much. Thanks to all of you members who came to be with us at our 2019 San Diego Reunion.
See you in St Louis in 2021!
Lynda Simmons,
SGS President
The Mid-Ohio River Valley proved to be a wonderful setting for the 2017 Seeley Genealogical Society Reunion. Not only is it beautiful and picturesque, but it is also full of history. Everything between Parkersburg, WV, and Marietta, OH, was filled with interesting, informative, and fun things to do.
Members were able to learn about the history of the area, hear more about Seeley research, ancestors, and DN and, creating family books, share family memories, and keep updated on the Seelye Research Center. One of biggest bonuses of any reunion is getting to know our Seeley cousins better and enjoying their company.
The reunion extended from June 14 to June 18. We had forty-nine people in attendance from twelve different states. We really had such a good time together, as we learned much about Seeleys and this historic and beautiful part of our country.
Linda Crocker, SGS Chief Genealogist, graciously hosted the SGS Executive Board Meeting in her home on Wednesday afternoon. Members are always invited to attend board meetings. Since most of the reunion attendees were in town on Wednesday night, we all enjoyed a delicious dinner together. Afterwards, we all met at the Wingate Hotel for a welcoming meeting, introducing ourselves, telling where we were from, and becoming better acquainted. Registration materials were given out and the reunion agenda discussed. It was a good beginning.
Thursday, June 15, began with a spectacular view of the Ohio River and Parkersburg from Fort Boreman Historical Park. Historian Bob Enoch met members there to inform us of the rich history of this area. Fort Boreman was built in 1863 as a Civil War fortification to ensure that the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad link between Wheeling and Parkersburg would not be controlled by the Confederate Army. The area had been surveyed by George Washington before the Revolutionary War, and many of his men settled in the area after the war.
We then moved to the Memorial Church of the Good Shepherd, where all of our subsequent meetings were held. The church proved to be a wonderful place to meet because the auditorium was very comfortable with a kitchen close by. The chapel itself is beautiful, and Marjorie Bevans, the rector, and her staff were very welcoming. Linda and Bob Crocker brought drinks and anything we needed and had food delivered; Linda even made a delicious salad to go with our pizza lunch.
Linda was also the most valuable person behind this reunion. Last summer when it was time to organize the reunion, Linda and I were the only ones who could be in West Virginia. She had made a list of all possible sites for meetings and tours. We visited each site and decided which would be best, allowing us to complete much of the agenda at that time. During the year, what one of us did not think of, the other one did. We decided that we made a good partnership, but Linda in West Virginia was the one who made things happen. I am very grateful for her leadership and many, many hours of service!
At the opening session I welcomed everyone, gave an overview of planned activities, and set up carpools for them. Mark Seely gave a realistic reenactment of Justus Wellington Seely who was born in 1815 in Pickering, Canada. His family joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (the Mormons) and moved to Nauvoo, Illinois. They travelled down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers and could have camped on the river near where we were meeting and staying. Justus and his family with other Mormon pioneers were forced to leave Nauvoo and trek to Utah, where he was a leader in his community, served a mission, reared a large family, and died in 1894 in Mt. Pleasant, Utah. Besides giving many details about his ancestor’s life, Mark also then played his harmonica for us. The members enjoyed both his presentation and his music.
Wesley Waring, SGS Director-at-large, followed Mark with an informative overview of Society research. Wesley told about the latest research done by Apryl Cox, focusing on the Obadiah line in both America and England. Wesley and the Research Committee would like Apryl to continue working on Obadiah’s line, checking Robert’s line, and also looking for additional Seeleys who came to America around the time that both of them did. All members appreciated Wesley’s presentation and hard work as the chairman of the Research Committee.
At breaks and lunch, members enjoyed delicious Seely Mints from the Seely Mint Company. Mike Seely and his wife Candy own and operate a mint farm in Clatskanie, Oregon. They sent four varieties for us to try: Peppermint Patties, Mint Bark, and both ivory and dark Belgian Chocolate Melts. To find a store that carries these delicious Seely Mints near you or to order them, go to their website: www.seelymint.com.
Members were also able to purchase great Seeley Genealogical Society T-shirts. You can, too, for only $12.00 (or $14.00 for size XXL). There are still some left. Get in touch with Linda Crocker to order one. They make great gifts for your Seeley relatives.
Everyone who registered for the reunion received a colorful Seeley bag, which was handy to carry materials and notes in. Additional bags can be purchased for only $5.00 from Terry Tietjens at the Seelye Research Center.
We had a tasty, boxed lunch and then drove to Marietta, about twenty minutes away. Marietta was the first settlement in the Northwest Territory. The Marietta Historic District contains charming buildings and shops on cobblestone streets. SGS members enjoyed trolley tours of Marietta, visited the Campus Martius Museum, the Ohio River Museum, and the Washington County Public Library, which has Seeleys in its genealogical section, and in the evening, had a delicious dinner on the Valley Gem Sternwheeler, part of a delightful two-hour cruise on the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers.
On Friday, June 16, we met at Good Shepherd Church again. Paul Borelli spoke about his photography. He owns thousands of vintage photographs of events that happened in and around Parkersburg, some of which he shared with us, including photos of the Wright Brothers when they brought their Kitty Hawk to the area and when it crashed. He also showed photos of famous people who had visited the area, such as Amelia Earhart and the original Munchkins. We were fascinated by his photos and stories. He was like a custodian of a national treasure.
Pam Turner, SGS Librarian, then presented an update of the Seelye Research Center, noting that the Center’s goals continue to be to preserve the genealogical legacy of the Seeley name (all spellings), to collect and house artifacts related to the Seeley surname, and to share information with the public in accordance with privacy protection policies. Pam described the Center’s acquisition policy and general rules for accepting donated materials. Members in attendance now have a new appreciation of her work.
Next, Stephanie Mills Moore helped explained how DNA testing works. Y-DNA testing is only for males because the Y chromosome is passed only from father to son. Mitochondrial (mtDNA) testing is for females because the mtDNA, a small circular genetic molecule found outside the nucleus, is passed by mothers to their sons and daughters, but only the females can pass it on to the next generation. Autosomal (atDNA) testing can be done for everyone but is less specific. Stephanie also provided a list of DNA testing companies and DNA databases.
We had another delicious, boxed lunch and then went to the Blennerhasset Museum, just a paddle boat ride away on Blennerhasset Island, where we also took wagon rides around the island and toured the beautiful Blennerhasset Mansion. We all enjoyed relaxing and conversing with each other amidst lovely surroundings.
That evening we went to dinner at DaVinci’s Restaurant. The food was delicious and the speaker fascinating. Bill Reynolds, Campus Martius Museum Historian and collaborator with American historian, David McCullough, talked about Rufus Putnam, an engineer and colonel during the Revolutionary War, who surveyed and settled Marietta at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers. Putnam was thus an important leader in the development of the Northwest Territory. Reynolds’s talk was fascinating.
On Saturday, June 17, we had the SGS Membership Meeting, which began with a slide show, created by Ron Sandquist, of pictures from the reunion. Patricia Brooks, SGS Secretary, read the minutes of our previous meetings, which were approved. We then re-elected SGS officers, all of whom had agreed to serve again. We are very thankful for their tireless service. They are part of the strength of the Society. We welcome LeAnne Seely who has agreed to produce the next Reunion Souvenir Book. We talked about ways to improve SGS. SGS Treasurer Margaret Petersen then presented a financial report, and Paul Taylor, SGS First Vice President and chair of the Communication Committee, reported on progress of the website redesign. Wesley Waring, Chair of the Research Committee, reported on the past research done and what more we would like to have done.
Members voted to dedicate the 2017 Reunion Souvenir Book to Jerry Havnar for his many years of service to SGS in setting-up and maintaining the website. Our love and thanks go to his widow, Chris, SGS Assistant Genealogist, who worked by Jerry’s side.
Three different sites, two in New York and one in California, were presented for the 2019 Reunion. Members voted to hold it in San Diego, CA. Discussion ensued regarding what month would be best for the reunion; the Reunion Committee will take that into consideration as we plan the Reunion.
LeAnne Seely then presented information on creating family books. She and her mother, Kathryn, just completed the third volume of Seely History, the story of the progenitors and descendants of Justus Azel Seely. LeAnne’s father, Montell, started them on this wonderful project.
Carol Haddon next gave a delightful history of her Seeley ancestors, telling humorous stories about them. All enjoyed her presentation.
For lunch at the end of the meeting we had pizza and salad. Members then had free time in the afternoon to pursue any of several activities: Henderson Hall, the Ohio River National Wildlife Refuge, the Mid-Ohio Valley Multicultural Festival, the Parkersburg Art Center, Holl’s Chocolate Factory, shopping for antiques in Marietta, or relaxing.
The Executive Board Meeting was held at 4:30 p.m. We discussed possible changes to the Constitution, ultimately deciding that changes were not needed. Minutes of the two Board meetings and the Membership Meeting will be published in both the Newsletter and the Reunion Souvenir Book.
That evening we had our farewell dinner, a delicious buffet, at the Grand Point Convention Center, where the Treble Makers, a barbershop quartet, provided entertainment. We enjoyed both the music and the food. Marshall Seelye entertained members as he introduced the Volunteer of the Year. He called up three volunteers and then announced that Kathie Olsen was the SGS Outstanding Volunteer of the Year. Kathie served as President of SGS for eight years. She and her mother, Madeline Mills, wrote the three Seeley generation books about the descendants of both Robert and Obadiah Seeley. She organized four reunions as well as trips to England and New England to visit the places where Robert and Obadiah lived. She also obtained SGS’s 501(c)(3) tax status, to mention only some of what she has done for the Society. We thank Kathie for all of her service.
At the end of the dinner, we bade a fond farewell to our Seeley cousins. We had a wonderful time together in West Virginia and Ohio, learning about new initiatives in genealogical research, enjoying the beautiful Mid-Ohio Valley, and meeting and greeting each other.
SGS reunions are a great time for fellowship and finding out more about Seeley ancestors and our nation’s history. Begin making plans now to attend the next reunion in San Diego. We hope to see everyone from this 2017 reunion there as well as many more Seeleys.
Linda Crocker,
SGS Chief Genealogist
When you call the Abilene, Kan., Convention and Visitors Bureau, they always answer by saying, “It’s a great day in Abilene!” And so it was–several great days in Abilene! It was good to be there.
The Seeley Genealogical Society gathered for its biennial meeting in Abilene from Sunday, July 26, 2015, to Wednesday, July 29, 2015. The theme was “Our Golden Anniversary, 1965 -2015.” There were sixty-nine people registered from fifteen states.
On Sunday, July 26, 2015, the SGS Executive Board, including both elected and appointed officers, met at 6:00 pm. A draft of the minutes of this meeting is in this Newsletter. We excused Chris Havnar and Bob Seeley who were unable to attend. The Board members were commended for their commitment to SGS. Various officers gave reports concerning their assignments. Several issues of importance were discussed. The Board voted to recommend that the 2017 reunion be held in Marietta, Ohio/Parkersburg, West Virginia in the Mid-Ohio Valley of the Ohio River.
Board members decided to dedicate the Reunion Souvenir Book to Marshall Seelye and his wife, Evelyn for their many years of leadership and service to SGS. He has continued in his activity even after her passing. We all miss Evelyn very much.
Monday, July 27, 2015, began early at the Seelye Mansion. Terry Tietjens had prepared his fabulous, sweet rolls, fruit, juice, and coffee for all to enjoy. We gathered on the patio and welcomed each other as we arrived. Registration took place under the portico of the Mansion. Reunion tee shirts were for sale. (There are some left, so get in touch with Terry if you would like to purchase one. They are $12.00 for all sizes, except XXL, which are $14.00. Terry’s address is on page 15.) Everyone was encouraged to purchase raffle tickets. Toots Brundage, a member of SGS, had donated a beautiful handmade quilt in the Dresden plate pattern in shades of green. Raffle tickets were also sold for two porcelain dolls, which had been given to the Seelye Mansion Foundation to be used to raise money for SGS or the Seelye Mansion.
At 9:30 we gathered in front of the Seelye Research Center to dedicate a tree, which had been planted to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of SGS. Each participant placed a handful of chips at the base of the tree as a way to encourage the growth of both the tree and SGS. Pam Turner, SRC Librarian, then cut the ribbon for the official opening of the Seelye Research Center and Hospitality Area, which remained open throughout the Reunion for use by attendees for side meetings and visiting. Additionally, attendees were encouraged to bring any research, Seeley artifacts, or family history items they wanted to share with other attendees. These items were then displayed in the SRC.
From 10:00 am until 4:30 pm, registrants could choose to participate in many different activities: tours of the Seelye Mansion and Seelye Research Center and Hospitality Area, a shuttle to the Dickinson County Heritage Center and Carousel and the Eisenhower Center, or a tour of Abilene, including the Russell Stover chocolate factory on a historic trolley. A wonderful, boxed lunch was served on the front porch of the Seelye Mansion.
At 5:00 pm, Terry and his staff served a delicious meal at the Hitching Post Restaurant. Lou Ann Crisler introduced the Reunion theme song, “Seeleys on the Range,” set to the tune of “Home on the Range,” the Kansas state song; the words reminded us of our heritage and the legacy which our ancestors left for us. Terry provided a rousing accompaniment. After dinner, we boarded the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad for a trip back in time, viewing the Kansas landscape that supports many species of native Kansas wildlife and beautiful fields of modern Kansas agriculture. A gorgeous sunset ended this memorable day.
Bright and early on Tuesday morning, July 28, 2015, we convened at the Abilene Convention Center for the opening session of our conference. After a welcome and announcements, Michael Hook, President of the Seelye Mansion Foundation Board and a local historian then gave a PowerPoint presentation on the history of Abilene, Dickinson County, and Kansas.
Debra Seely, an author of young adult fiction about the history of Kansas, spoke to us. We were happy to have both her and her husband, Dave, spend the day with us. She has published two books, Grasslands and The Last of the Roundup Boys, for readers ages ten to fourteen, both set in the 1880s near her favorite place in the world, her grandparents’ farm on the Kansas prairie. Glenn Cox and Bill Craven, two SGS members, quickly read both books and hope that she will write a third one soon. Debra graciously autographed copies of the books purchased by Society members.
After another boxed lunch, we reconvened for the afternoon session. Michael introduced us to the history of the A. B. Seelye family, and Ruthetta Seelye Hansen shared her family story. Kathie Olsen gave some information on her great-grandfather, John Henry Seely, a Utah state legislator and livestock breeder. Linda Crocker explained her research on other Seeleys who settled in Kansas; she also shared a Website that examined Seeley surnames of all spellings. It was interesting to note where in the world and the United States these surnames are more prevalent. Several other SGS members, including Mark Seely, LeAnne Seely, and Jesse Crisler, told brief impromptu stories about their ancestors.
In the evening, we enjoyed a buffet dinner catered by Abilene’s own Brookville Hotel, featuring fried chicken, soul food of the Midwest. Second Vice President Jesse Crisler gave a PowerPoint presentation outlining the growth and development of SGS by reviewing the lives of its eight presidents, its sixteen reunions in eleven different places, and major accomplishments of SGS over the fifty years since its founding by the Reverend Garner Osborn. Jesse then read Esther Walter’s responses to email interview questions submitted to her prior to the Reunion.
The membership meeting convened at the Abilene Civic Center on Wednesday, July 29, 2015, at 9:15 a.m. A draft of the minutes of this meeting will be in the November newsletter as well as the souvenir book. We started with announcements and the theme song, then SGS officers were recognized and thanked for their service, the minutes of the last membership meeting were read and approved, the auditing committee reported, and SGS Treasurer Sally Seeley presented the treasurer’s report, which was approved. Many accomplishments of SGS from 2013 to 2015 were noted in a “State of the Society” address; these are listed in the President’s report in this issue of the Newsletter.
Paul Taylor then led a discussion on SGS publications. The August Newsletter will be the last to be printed and mailed to all members. The Newsletter will be redesigned for the November issue. It will be in color for those receiving it by email. The printed copy for those who have prepaid will be in black and white. Orders are now being taken for the 2015 Reunion Souvenir Book; if you have not already ordered one, you still can for $35.00. The book will be dedicated to Marshall and Evelyn Seelye in recognition of their many years of leadership and service to SGS. Paul also mentioned the society’s Facebook page, the purpose of which is to increase awareness of SGS and direct visitors to the Website.
The Executive Board recommended that no changes be made to the dues structure or life memberships at this time. This was approved by the membership.
Jesse Crisler, chair of the Nominating Committee, announced the nominees for vacant offices. This committee, consisting of Jesse, Camille Seeley Bell, and Marie Seelye, worked tirelessly to secure nominees. The slate included Lynda Simmons, President; Patricia Palmer, Secretary; and Margaret Petersen, Treasurer. All other elected and appointed officers have agreed to remain in position. With no other nominations from the floor, nominations were approved by the membership.
The Executive Board, having received four nominations for the 2017 reunion, recommended that Marietta, Ohio/Parkersburg, West Virginia be the site for the 2017 Reunion; after a presentation by Linda Crocker, members approved this recommendation. It sounds like a great place to meet! I hope you are planning to attend.
After the membership meeting, a group photo was taken on the steps of the Seelye Mansion. Paul Taylor uses a fun system to identify all the people in the photo, which is always good for a laugh, and the pictures are always great.
After the photo session, members enjoyed free time. Many chose to tour the Seelye Mansion, hang out at the Seelye Research Center and Hospitality Area, visit downtown Abilene with its many museums, antique shops, art galleries, soda fountain, or the farmer’s market, or take a walking tour of Abilene.
An SGS elected and appointed officers meeting, 2015-17, was held in the Seelye Research Center at 4:30. This meeting was conducted by Lynda Simmons, incoming President. A draft of the minutes of this meeting will be in the Reunion Souvenir Book.
On the final night of the Reunion, the group assembled in the Eisenhower Presidential Library courtyard for a lovely dinner and a special speaker. It was awesome for this group to be able to come together in this location, where Presidents of the United States and other world leaders have been entertained.
We were first greeted by the Sisters of Hope, who harmonized many of old favorites. They are a non-profit group, which donates all proceeds to charity.
Tim Rives, Deputy Director and Supervisory Archivist of the Eisenhower Library, spoke about the life and times of Dwight David Eisenhower. Born in Texas but brought to Abilene as a small boy, he grew up to become General of the Army and President of the United States.
At the conclusion of this very informative talk, Lou Ann Crisler with the help of Nick Taylor drew the winning names in the raffle. Bea Seeley and Camille Seeley Bell each won a beautiful Porcelain doll, and Sue Craven won the lovely handmade quilt, donated by Toots Brundage. The raffle yielded over $700.00 for the Society’s general operating fund. Thanks to Toots, Jesse, and Lou Ann for their contributions to a successful raffle. The Awards and Recognition Committee then presented a certificate of Honorable Mention for the Family Society Newsletter competition of the National Genealogical Society to SGS Newsletter editor Paul Taylor. It is indeed an award-winning Newsletter. Certificates of appreciation were then presented to three outgoing officers: Sally Seeley, Camille Seeley Bell, and Kathie Olsen. Marshall Seelye, a member of the Committee, gave a sincere tribute to the recipient of the 2015 Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award, Jim Seeley, who family received the award on his behalf.
The newly elected SGS Executive Board was installed by George Seeley, Parliamentarian. Lou Ann Crisler led the group in a last rendition of “Seeleys on the Range,” soloing on two new verses. As a final gesture, Kathie Olsen used the gavel to conclude the reunion/conference. She then presented the “Daniel Seelye Memorial Gavel” to the incoming President, Lynda Simmons.
Kathie Olsen,
SGS President
* Denotes Elected Executive Board
The Seeley Genealogical Society held its fifteenth biennial meeting at the Hilton Airport Hotel in Grand Rapids, Michigan, August 8-11, 2013. The theme was “A Grand Time in Grand Rapids with Seeley Grandparents and Grandchildren.” There were sixty-three registrants from sixteen states. A hospitality room provided a place to visit and display documents and artifacts. In the final meeting of the 2011-2013 SGS Executive Board, officers gave reports, discussed important issues, and decided to recommend that the 2015 reunion be held in Abilene, Kansas. The reunion featured four tours: the Heritage Hill historic neighborhood and the Frank Lloyd Wright Meyer May home, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, the Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, and the Grand Rapids Public Library. Member presentations included discussions on using the Internet to find genealogical information, various attendees’ Seeley families who had settled in Michigan, firefighting in colonial times, and structures bearing the Seeley name. Guest speakers included Tim Gleisner, Grand Rapids Library History and Special Collections Supervisor, whose keynote address was titled “A Brief History of the Settlement of Michigan and Grand Rapids”; Carol Seeley Scott, author of The Eel Catcher’s Travels: Robert Seeley 1602 -1667, who discussed “Family History: Fact or Fiction”; and Jack Dempsey, author of Michigan and the Civil War: A Great and Bloody Sacrifice, who discussed Sarah Emma Edmonds Seelye who fought in the War. During the membership meeting officers gave presentations, the auditing committee reported that the treasurer’s books were in order, and the state of the Society and declining membership numbers were also discussed. Amendments to the SGS Constitution and Bylaws that provide for distributing funds should SGS ever dissolve, and a revision to the role of the Publications Editor, including wording on the periodic nature of the SGS Newsletter, were adopted. The nominating committee’s slate of officers was also approved.
A group photo was taken, followed by a picnic. Afterward, the 2013-2015 SGS Executive Board gathered for its first meeting and discussed the application process for non-profit status, preliminary arrangements for the 2015 SGS Reunion, the approach to printing publications, including the SGS Newsletter, membership challenges and strategies, prioritizing research goals, and developing a mission statement for the Seelye Research Center. That night plaques were presented to outgoing officers Marshall Seelye and Mary Palley, the National Genealogical Society honorable mention award was presented to Paul Taylor, Editor of the Newsletter, and the Outstanding SGS Volunteer Award for 2011-2013 was presented to Chris and Jerry Havnar for their many contributions to SGS. The newly elected SGS Executive Board was installed by James R. Seeley. Karen Hadley, an attendee and a yodeler, performed a marvelous birthday yodel for Carol Seeley Scott, who celebrated her ninety-second birthday. On Sunday morning the group met a final time for a late breakfast before parting ways until meeting again in Abilene in 2015.
Kathie Olsen,
SGS President
SGS convened for its 14th reunion at the Hilton Garden Inn Elmira/Corning in Horseheads, N.Y., on Thursday, July 14, 2011, through Sunday, July 17, 2011. The theme was “Settling Down and Migrating Through: The Seeley Family in the Twin Tier Area of Southern New York and Northern Pennsylvania.” There were 69 registrants with 90 people attending various events. A hospitality room was available for members to display documents and artifacts and to visit. Elected and appointed officers gave reports concerning their areas of responsibility, including SGS being named a beneficiary in the estate of Evelyn R. Johnson, wife of Robert Seeley Johnson. It was also decided to dedicate the conference and souvenir book to John Robert and Maurine Brevoort Seely whose far-reaching influence on SGS includes the establishment of the SGS Ancestor File. The opening session began Executive Board reports on the souvenir book, SGS publications for sale, CD sales, the possibility of a 2014 tour to England, and DNA testing. Kerry Lippincott, education coordinator of the Chemung County Historical Society gave the keynote address, “Overview of the History of the Area, Including Seeley Family Settlers.”
Afterward, attendees sang the reunion theme song with lyrics by Jesse and Lou Ann Crisler tailored to SGS. Attendees discussed area Seeley families including James R. Seeley (William Seeley SGS#1692), Dianne Seeley (Charles Seelye SGS#2530), Eugene Seelye (Ebenezer Seelye SGS#299), Jesse Crisler (Justus [William] Seelye SGS#282), and Kathie Olsen (Justus Azel Seelye SGS#836). Members of the audience also shared their ancestors’ stories. That evening, J. Kelsey Jones, a prominent genealogy and history researcher in the area, discussed the settlement of Seeley Creek valley. Friday was spent touring local sites like the Corning Museum of Glass, Elmira with Mark Twain sites, the Chemung County Historical Society Museum and Library, an area winery, Chemung County, N.Y., including Tioga Point, Pa., Fitzsimmons Cemetery, and the Seeley Creek valley. Friday evening’s speaker was Joyce Tice, a local history and genealogy expert. The membership meeting kick off Saturday. Officers were elected and board members appointed. A constitutional change and new dues schedule were approved. An auditing committee reported that the treasurer’s books were in order. After discussion, the site of the 2013 reunion was selected: Grand Rapids, Mich. The group then moved to the Big Flats Town Park for a catered picnic. That afternoon, the new SGS Executive Board gathered for a meeting. Discussion items included the organization of the SGS Ancestor File. The membership chair was asked to prepare a yearly report of paid members, life members, and other categories to be published in the newsletter. Committees were appointed for awards and recognition and SGS history. The increasing cost of the newsletter was a point of discussion. No decision was made but further discussion is in order. The group decided to invest in research and voted to solicit input for topics from the membership.
That night following dinner and the installation of officers, members gave brief reports on organizing SGS trips to England New England, the history of SGS pubs, SGS queries, SGS Ancestor File, Seelye Research Center, SGS Website, the challenges of being an SGS president, the Seelye Mansion in Abilene, the DNA testing project, and the importance of volunteers. On Sunday morning the group met for breakfast, until meeting again in Grand Rapids, Mich., in 2013!
Kathie Olsen,
SGS President
The Seeley Genealogical Society convened for its biennial reunion at the Airport Quality Inn in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2009, through Sunday, Aug. 9, 2009. There were 90 registrants, and at least 99 people were in attendance at various events. The Executive Board met at 9:30 a.m. and heard reports from various committees. Later, the reunion opening session was called to order at 1:00 p.m. We then heard from Dallin Oaks, an Apostle of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a Seeley descendant. He spoke on the “Power of Family History.” Our after-dinner speaker was David Dilts from the Family History Library. His topic was “The History of Family History.” On Thursday morning, we met at the Family History Library for an introductory session. Then members were encouraged to use the resources of the library to answer questions in their own quests. One of the highlights of this reunion was the opportunity that Terry Tietjens had to play a short recital on the organ in the Mormon Tabernacle on Temple Square. Other activities of the day included a tour of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Humanitarian Center and a walking tour around the Temple Square area.
In the evening, some members attended the Tabernacle Choir practice in the LDS Conference Center. Friday morning, we loaded onto a bus for a tour of the Salt Lake City area. Various family members acted as tour guides telling us about the geology of the Salt Lake Valley, the commercial history of the Great Salt Lake, the history of the Kennecott Mine, the pioneer settlement of the Salt Lake Valley, the ski industry, the Pony Express, the experiences of the Seeley family as Mormon pioneers, the 2002 Olympics, historic South Temple Street, the Utah State Capitol, and Temple Square. We addressed some of the “brick walls” in Seeley research on Friday evening after dinner. Saturday began with the business/membership meeting. New officers were elected, and we adopted criteria for SGS funding of DNA tests. An exciting discussion ensued as we contemplated possible sites for the 2011 reunion. The tri-counties area of New York and Pennsylvania (Bradford County, and Tioga County, Pa., and Chemung County, N.Y.) was selected by the members present. In the afternoon on Saturday, SGS joined the Justus Azel Seelye Family Organization for a family picnic in Sherwood Park. Afterward, the new Executive Board met back at the hotel. The new officers were installed at a reception held in the hotel. On Sunday morning buses took us to the Conference Center for the weekly broadcast of “Music and the Spoken Word” by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. At the conclusion of the performance, we returned to the hotel for a farewell buffet brunch. This gave us one last opportunity to spend time with each other before going our separate ways.
Kathie Olsen,
SGS President
Seeley descendants returned to Wethersfield, the site of the 1992 (fifth) SGS Reunion. The registration desk was set up for early arrivals on Wednesday afternoon in the hotel lobby. The busy area around the registration desk was often a place for greeting old friends and storytelling. The first official function of the reunion was a meeting of the 2005-2007 SGS Executive Board on Thursday morning, all of whom were present. The meeting was an open one, so several other members were present as well. The hospitality room was a large room adjacent to the meeting room. It was used for board meetings, meetings of small groups, displaying articles and documents of interest to the Seeley family, and just visiting with cousins we had not seen for a long time. The opening session was Thursday afternoon. Breakfast and lunch were on our own each day. Dinners were prepaid. The Sunday farewell buffet brunch was in the beautiful Garden Room overlooking the indoor pool. That gave us a chance to say our farewells to each other in a relaxed, beautiful setting. Friday was tour day with a bus tour of Old Wethersfield in the morning and a walking tour of Old Wethersfield Burying Ground in the afternoon. The main attraction on the bus tour was the stone memorial on the Village Green of Old Wethersfield listing the “Ten Adventurers” who founded Wethersfield in 1634. Among them (second from the top on the left side) is the name of Robert Seeley. We also visited the site where Robert Seeley lived just a short distance away.
Saturday morning was the business meeting. Veronica Seeley Newell was chairwoman of the nominating committee. She reported the committee’s nominations for the nine-member 2007-2009 SGS Executive Board. There were no further nominations from the floor and the new board was elected unanimously. The Executive Board recommended, and the membership approved Salt Lake City, Utah for the thirteenth SGS Reunion. The board also recommended the timeframe for the reunion be sometime during July or August 2009 to accommodate families who would like to bring their children. President James R. Seeley said he believed the volunteerism of one SGS member exceeded all others: SGS Query Editor Linda Crocker. To recognize Linda’s contributions to the society, he presented her a certificate and letter of commendation.
He then adjourned the meeting and turned the Dan Seelye Memorial Gavel over to Kathie Olsen.
James R. Seeley,
SGS President
* Denotes Elected Executive Board
The 2005 SGS Reunion was in Abilene, Kan., Sept. 14-18, 2005. It kicked off with the SGS Executive Board hosting a welcoming picnic on the beautiful Seelye Mansion grounds attended by about 70 people. Sixty-five people registered for the reunion. At the opening session, the membership was welcomed by Abilene Mayor Diane Miller. It was announced that the theme of the reunion was “The Seeley Family as Pioneers.” Members were also reminded that 2005 was the 40th anniversary of the founding of SGS, the 100th anniversary of the construction of the Seelye Mansion, and the 375th anniversary of Seeleys in North America. Presentations were given on the SRC Filing System, use of the Personal Ancestor File (PAF) genealogy application, use of a Family History Library, latest changes to the three SGS generation books, and planning for a future tour of New England to visit sites where immigrants Robert and Obadiah Seeley lived. The after-dinner speaker was Terry Tietjens who talked about the history of the Seelye Mansion. The reunion also included a “skit” titled “Robert & Mary Seeley’s Courageous Journey to the New World” and put on by Montell Seely, his wife, Kathryn, and daughter LeAnne. Other discussions included an update on the Seeley DNA Lineage Project and an update on Obadiah Seeley and his possible sister, Sarah Seeley Bruen.
James R. Seeley,
SGS President
The 2003 SGS Reunion was held in Williamsburg, Va., and more than 70 people attended. A hospitality room was open each day where SGS provided soft drinks, juice, cookies, a computer, and a copier. There were many interesting items on display, including an updated copy of the ancestor file index, items from the Seelye Research Center, and items from individuals. Abilene, Kan. was voted as the site for the next SGS International Reunion, scheduled for the week following Labor Day. Salt Lake City, Utah, and Connecticut were approved for consideration as future sites. The Federation of Genealogical Societies inducted John R. Seely into its Living Volunteer Hall of Honor. SGS President James R. Seeley presented John with the letter nominating him for the honor and presented a certificate and letter from FGS. James also presented William Thresher with a certificate and letter commending him for his eleven years of outstanding service as SGS treasurer. George R. Seeley was also commended for six years of outstanding service as the SGS membership chairman. James also noted the assistance provided by George’s wife, Sally. After dinner speakers discussed 18th- and 19th-century handwriting, how newspapers may provide useful genealogical research opportunities, and Virginia headrights.
James R. Seeley,
SGS President
The business meeting of the Tacoma, Wash., SGS Reunion began on Sept. 7, 2001. Topics of discussion included presentation of minutes, treasurer’s report, establishment of area coordinators, and membership totals (384). A draft tri-fold brochure was presented to the membership as an option for attracting new members, and Kathie Olsen reported that the Seventh-Generation book was almost sold out, and recommended a second run (which was approved). Kathie also discussed the importance of documentation guidelines for amending SGS publications. Terry Tietjens provided a report on the Seelye Research Center and requested some organizational assistance. Lectures included a workshop on beginning genealogy, a discussion of genealogical resources available in the Tacoma area, and hardware and software needs for genealogy. Marshall Seelye presented a plaque to Dan Seelye as a token of appreciation for his outstanding efforts. Dan presented the Society a gavel to be passed along for use by future SGS Presidents.
James R. Seeley,
SGS President
The 1999 Reunion of the Seeley Genealogical Society was held in Abilene, Kan., Sept. 8-11, 1999. Registrations totaled approximately 105 members and included members from Canada and Argentina. The opening session of the reunion included welcoming remarks from Lynn Peterson, former Mayor of Abilene; Lynda Lowry, Executive Director of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce; and Wayne Miller, President of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce. Dennis Medina, Curator of the Eisenhower Museum; Nancy Scholl, Tour Coordinator of the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau; and Jeff Sheets, Director of the Dickinson County Historical Society discussed their respective areas for serving reunion attendees during their visit to Abilene. Terry Tietjens, Seelye Research Center Director, identified opportunities for research available at the research center and offered tours of the Seelye Mansion, a National Historic Landmark, for all reunion attendees.
An allocation of $1000 was made from the general fund to the research fund to complete the Fred Hart research and to fund continued research. The following training sessions were conducted for the benefit of the membership: “Beginning Genealogy” by Katherine Olsen; “The Seeley Database” by John R. Seely; “Ancestral Files and PAF Program of the LDS” by Valerie Wilson of Salina; and “GEDCOM Files, E-mail, and Web Pages” by Daniel P. Seelye. In addition, the facilities of the Seelye Research Center were open and available to all members who wanted to do research and to explore the computer capabilities of the center.
Ramon Hall,
SGS Newsletter Editor
The 1997 SGS Reunion was held in Saint John, New Brunswick, co-hosted by the Seeleys of New Brunswick, under the leadership of Harold Fanjoy. Elsie Wayne, Member of Parliament, provided a warm welcoming address to the general assembly. The membership chairman reported that membership had grown to 457. Maurine Seely presented the results of her SGS-funded research on the relationship of Robert and Obadiah Seeley. Terry Tietjens reported on his progress in establishing a Seeley Archives Center in proximity to the Seelye Mansion in Abilene. The reunion also featured classes and seminars on beginning genealogy, computers in genealogical research, genealogical uses for the Internet, Seelys from Canada, and use of records at the University of New Brunswick, Warren County, N.Y., Family Court Judge John Austin discussed “Genealogy: Serious Fun,” and CBC Radio Genealogy Commentator Terrence Punch discussed the fun of genealogical research.
Ramon Hall,
SGS Newsletter Editor
“Great!” “Wonderful!” “Best Yet!” Those were some of the assessments of our reunion at Salt Lake City from some of the 113 attending. The Sixth Generation books were available for sale and 69 were sold! A correction committee of Kathie Olsen, Dick Chroninger, and John Seely was established to work on our first five generations book and ancestral file at the Family History Library. Bylaws were amended to call for a reunion every two years. The 1997 reunion will be held in St. John, New Brunswick. A Donald Eff Memorial Fund for research was established with an initial $1,000 transferred from our general fund.
Marshall Seelye,
SGS President
My elation over the fifth triennial reunion of the Seeley Genealogical Society is tempered only by the wish that everyone could have been there. Three wonderful days and evenings full of camaraderie, research classes, and after dinner speakers. It was great meeting cousins from all parts of the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand, and renewing acquaintances with others. I was personally gratified that there were 90 in attendance, 23 more than previously. Much was accomplished and the most significant result is the immediate start on the compilation of the Generation Six book. Lois R. Gilmore generously donated a copy of her John Weltz Seeley History to the society, and Harold Fanjoy and Hap Ward presented SGS with a copy of their 900-page book, The Seeleys of New Brunswick.
Marshall Seelye,
SGS President
Evelyn and I certainly enjoyed getting together again with so many Seeley cousins at Fort Wayne. I am honored to have been chosen to be the President of the Seeley Genealogical Society for the next three years and am looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead. The fourth SGS Reunion was called to order on Thursday, Aug. 24, in the ballroom of the Airport Hilton at Fort Wayne, Ind. The room and the reunion were filled with Seeley descendants from all over the U.S. John Seely gave a report on his computer printouts, and Montell Seely gave a talk on his large family book and its special cover design. The hospitality room was laid out with displays, charts, books, copying material, and room for visiting. Steve Meyers of the Allen County Library presented a slide tour, followed by a program on “Video Taping Your Genealogy.” Maurine Seely conducted a class in genealogy, while John Seely headed a discussion on computers and family printouts. Clyde Chamberlin gave a slide show titled “Tombstone Art.”
Marshall Seelye,
SGS President
Cousins came from every direction for a three-day SGS Reunion; strangers upon arrival, most of them experienced that vibrating thrill of the first meeting. It was an event to be remembered. The program speakers were inspirational, educational, and informative. Dorothy Lowers’s talk on researching at the Allen County Library resulted in a number of the members taking advantage of its genealogical records. The genealogy class was full; Connie Ayers’s talk on researching in Washington D.C., was enlightening; Betty Allen’s talk on writing your family history was full; and Alan Phipps’s keynote speech on Seeley research and researching in England was most impressive. The discussion on the use of computers in genealogy pointed up some real possibilities.
Robert Cox,
SGS President
I flew to Denver to attend the Seeley Reunion and meet some cousins. I got caught in the draft of a fast train and emerged as your president. The reunion was well planned and great. I enjoyed it all. I was proud to meet so many of the Seeley cousins at the reunion. One thing that impressed me was the map with colored pins showing the residences of those attending. You can be sure there are a lot of Seeleys from a lot of places! The map further showed the need to gather and disseminate Seeley information, knowledge, and understanding of the Seeley name. It is one of our vital goals as a society!
Robert Cox,
SGS President
A warm welcome to all Seeleys, no matter how you spell your name! Aug. 16, 1980, a Seeley Reunion was held in Lyons Colo., the first such event of what is planned as a regular feature to take place every third year. Thanks to Sherrie Moss and Esther Houtz, it was a well-planned, enjoyable gathering attended by some 83 Seeley descendants from 18 states ranging from Connecticut and Massachusetts in the northeast to Minnesota in the north and from Florida and Arkansas in the south, westward to California and Washington. For some reason, the previous president, DeLoss Seeley, failed to receive his notice and invitation and so was not present to conduct the business session. Esther Houtz chaired the floor in his absence.
Don Eff,
SGS President
