The Burke County Genealogical Society (BCGS) was formed in 1982 to encourage and aid in the accumulation and preservation of the historical and genealogical records of Burke County. Formed in 1777 from Rowan County, Burke is a pivotal county for the study of the settlement of and migration to western North Carolina.

The BCGS is very supportive and proud of the Burke County Public Library's newly renovated facility with its exceptional North Carolina Room. BCGS has donated numerous genealogical materials to the library, including the NC census on microfilm. They are also supportive of the Burke County Historical Society's project to publish a second volume of its Heritage series. Persons with Burke County roots are asked to submit biographical sketches of deceased persons, who were born and/or lived in Burke County. Interested persons should contact the Burke County Historical Society, P.O. Drawer 2847, Morganton, NC 28680-2847.

The BCGS publishes a quarterly journal. The May 2000 issue of the Journal of Burke County Genealogical Society is 32 pages long and includes transcriptions of Civil War letters, land entries, tax lists, the origins of the Wilde/Stevelie family, interesting reprints of articles form old newspapers and queries, as well as Society news, library news, and announcements. A name index is included in each journal. The journal editors are Bruce and Rita Sisk.

Current executive board members include Libby Causby, president; Robert Pruett, vice-president; corresponding secretary, Sandra West; recording secretary, Shirley Helms; treasurer, Sandra Allen Fender; and past president, Robert M. Donaldson. The BCGS meets quarterly wit speakers on the third Mondays of February, May, August and November. Memberships are on a calendar-year basis (1January-31 December) and dues are $15 for individuals; $18 for a family membership; and $25 for contributors. For more information contact the BCGS at P.O. Box 661, Morganton, NC 28680-0661 or visit the Web at http://www.rootsweb.com/~ncburke.