The Santa Barbara County Genealogical Society (SBCGS) invites the community to its annual Family History Month Open House on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Sahyun Genealogical Library at 316 Castillo Street, Santa Barbara. Admission is free, and all are welcome.
This year’s Open House will feature the debut of a special exhibit: Santa Barbara Hispanic Family Histories, 1850–1970, highlighting the stories, photographs, and legacies of local families whose histories are woven into the cultural fabric of Santa Barbara. Guests can also receive special assistance with Hispanic genealogy research, offering practical help to start or expand their own family history journey.
In addition to the exhibit, the Open House will feature a wide range of activities:
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FamilySearch “Discovery Experiences” – Discover famous relatives, explore your family in the 1950 census, record family memories, and take home a personalized family tree fan chart (free FamilySearch account required).
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Library Tours & Research Help – Explore the Sahyun Library’s extensive collections with guidance from experienced volunteers and special interest groups.
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Community Organizations & Lineage Groups – Connect with local partners dedicated to preserving history and heritage.
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Free Computer & Database Access – Use library computers and subscription genealogy websites at no cost during the event.
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Light Refreshments & Networking – Enjoy refreshments while connecting with fellow genealogy enthusiasts.
“Our Open House is about more than research – it’s about connection,” said Holly Snyder, SBCGS Outreach Chair. “Every family has a story worth preserving, and this event offers the tools, resources, and inspiration to help uncover and share those stories.”
Whether you are just beginning your family history journey or have years of research experience, the Family History Month Open House is a welcoming opportunity to discover, connect, and celebrate both local heritage and global family stories.
Event Details:
Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Sahyun Genealogical Library, 316 Castillo Street, Santa Barbara
Admission: Free
About the Santa Barbara County Genealogical Society
The SBCGS helps people discover, document, share, and preserve their family histories. Through programs, resources, and community outreach, the Society supports genealogists of all levels and fosters a deeper connection to the past.
This project was made possible with support from California Humanities, a non-profit partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Visit
CalHum.org.