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I Have a Civil War Ancestor... Now What? (Zoom)

with Brian Rhinehart from CivilWarRecords.com
2026-01-29 19:00:00 2026-01-29 20:00:00 America/Chicago I Have a Civil War Ancestor... Now What? (Zoom) Civil War soldiers often left a rich genealogical paper trail.  Learn what records are available for your ancestors and how to access them.  Ela Area Public Library -

Thursday, January 29
7:00pm - 8:00pm

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Civil War soldiers often left a rich genealogical paper trail.  Learn what records are available for your ancestors and how to access them. 

Many of these records are tucked away at the National Archives in Washington DC.  Learn what records are available for your ancestors only at the National Archives, what records are online already, and how to access all of them.  These records may unlock some of the family stories that have been forgotten over time, as well as break down a brick wall or two!   

AGE GROUP: | Older Adults | Adults |

EVENT TYPE: | Lectures and Performances |

TAGS: | genealogy |

Ela Area Public Library
Phone: 847-438-3433
Fax: 847-438-9290
Hours
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Mon, Jul 27 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Tue, Jul 28 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Wed, Jul 29 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Thu, Jul 30 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Fri, Jul 31 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Aug 01 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, Aug 02 12:00PM to 5:00PM
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Upcoming Events

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Space Lab (ages 3-6)
Mon, Jul 27, 10:00am - 11:00am
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A and B (R186-187)
Enjoy an out-of-this-world experience as... more
Enjoy an out-of-this-world experience as we blast off into space! We will share interactive activities, cosmic crafts, and more!
Stuffed Animal Space Camp (ages 3-10)
Mon, Jul 27, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A and B (R186-187)
Your stuffed animal friends will have... more
Your stuffed animal friends will have stellar adventures at our space camp! Drop off July 22-24 then pick up your camper at this open house and create a keepsake photo album of their experience.
Registration is now closed
Rotary Club of Lake Zurich - Rotary Club Meeting
Mon, Jul 27, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Thinking about joining the Rotary Club of... more
Thinking about joining the Rotary Club of Lake Zurich? Come to the meeting and get acquainted. Public is welcome.
Fantasy Map Making for RPGs
Mon, Jul 27, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Create your own fantasy world map with... more
Create your own fantasy world map with some fun materials and bring your RPG adventures to life.
Spuds with Buds - Spuds with Buds: End of Summer Party
Mon, Jul 27, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Celebrate the end of summer with a... more
Celebrate the end of summer with a spud-tacular Potato Party! Enjoy tasty potato snacks, get creative with crafts, and play fun games with your friends. Don’t miss this mash-up of laughs!
Registration is now closed
Todd Downing Concert - **TICKETED EVENT**
Tue, Jul 28, 10:30am - 11:30am
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Everyone loves a tall tale and Todd tells... more
Everyone loves a tall tale and Todd tells some real whoppers, weaving them into lively songs! Families will be moving, grooving, and giggling during this silly concert.
Excel Next Steps
Tue, Jul 28, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Adult Computer Lab (R202)
Comfortable entering data in Excel but... more
Comfortable entering data in Excel but not sure what to try next? This class helps “advanced beginners” build new skills for working with spreadsheets.
Genealogy One on One
Tue, Jul 28, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Study Room 9
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for... more
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for personalized genealogical research assistance.  
This event is full
Cancelled
Civic Roots Workshop (ages 9-13) - Taking Action in Our Community
Tue, Jul 28, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Ela Area Public Library
Civic Roots is a nonpartisan, nonprofit... more
Civic Roots is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that provides engaging, age-appropriate introductions to constitutional and civil rights—empowering a new generation of informed citizens.
Office Hours with Rep Syed - Meet your Representative
Tue, Jul 28, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Front Lobby (R104)
Stop by to discuss issues of concern with... more
Stop by to discuss issues of concern with Illinois House Rep. Syed
Preschool Yoga (ages 3-5)
Wed, Jul 29, 9:30am - 10:30am
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Little ones can learn fun and simple yoga... more
Little ones can learn fun and simple yoga poses. Tracey Kreiling from Mindful Movement yoga presents this engaging and relaxing class for preschoolers and their caregivers.
Kids Yoga (ages 6-12)
Wed, Jul 29, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Ela Area Public Library
Tracey Kreiling from Mindful Movement... more
Tracey Kreiling from Mindful Movement Yoga will guide kids through a fun and simple mindfulness and movement class. Enjoy moments of stillness and learn breathing techniques to relax.
Genealogy One on One
Wed, Jul 29, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Study Room 9
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for... more
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for personalized genealogical research assistance.  
This event is full
Teen Maker Lab
Wed, Jul 29, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Pick from several creative projects and... more
Pick from several creative projects and bring their ideas to life using Forge equipment like the laser cutter, embroidery machine and more! One session per patron.
This event is full
Teen Maker Lab
Wed, Jul 29, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Pick from several creative projects and... more
Pick from several creative projects and bring their ideas to life using Forge equipment like the laser cutter, embroidery machine and more! One session per patron.
This event is full
Bath Bomb Workshop (ages 8-11)
Wed, Jul 29, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A (R187)
Enjoy a hands-on adventure in this fun... more
Enjoy a hands-on adventure in this fun and fragrant workshop as we make alien bath bombs!
This event is full
Teen Maker Lab
Wed, Jul 29, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Pick from several creative projects and... more
Pick from several creative projects and bring their ideas to life using Forge equipment like the laser cutter, embroidery machine and more! One session per patron.
This event is full
Outdoor Concert: School of Rock Barrington House Band
Wed, Jul 29, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Back Lawn
This group of performers features some of... more
This group of performers features some of our most dedicated and hardworking student musicians.
Open Space Storytime
Thu, Jul 30, 9:30am - 10:15am
Ela Area Public Library
Join us out in the Children's Department... more
Join us out in the Children's Department play area for stories, songs, and silliness! All are welcome in this space.
Kids Book Club (ages 8-11) - Aku: Journey to Ibra
Thu, Jul 30, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A (R187)
Aku finds a mysterious astronaut helmet... more
Aku finds a mysterious astronaut helmet that can transport him to other planets and takes him on an action-packed adventure to the planet Ibra. We will create our own helmets as we discuss the book.
This event is full
An Evening with Artist Shawn Killackey
Thu, Jul 30, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Ela Area Public Library
Join us for an evening with local artist... more
Join us for an evening with local artist Shawn Killackey. Hear about his creative journey, personal growth, and the inspiration behind his work.
Parachute Play
Fri, Jul 31, 9:30am - 10:00am
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A and B (R186-187)
The sky's the limit during this active... more
The sky's the limit during this active playtime featuring colors, silly songs and games, and of course, the parachute! Adult participation is required.
This event is full
Parachute Play
Fri, Jul 31, 10:15am - 10:45am
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A and B (R186-187)
The sky's the limit during this active... more
The sky's the limit during this active playtime featuring colors, silly songs and games, and of course, the parachute! Adult participation is required.
This event is full
Drop-In Craft - alien spaceships
Fri, Jul 31, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A (R187)
Stop by the Children's Department to... more
Stop by the Children's Department to design a unique craft project with the materials provided.
Drop-In Craft - alien spaceships
Sat, Aug 01, 9:30am - 4:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A (R187)
Stop by the Children's Department to... more
Stop by the Children's Department to design a unique craft project with the materials provided.
Queer D&D
Sun, Aug 02, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Come gather for a queer-affirming... more
Come gather for a queer-affirming Dungeons & Dragons adventure where LGBTQ+ players and allies can roll dice, tell stories, and explore fantasy worlds together. This is a 3-hour campaign session.
This event is full
Senior Scrabble Club
Mon, Aug 03, 10:00am - 12:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
Senior adults of all skill levels are... more
Senior adults of all skill levels are welcome. Refreshments and supplies will be provided.
Pajama Family Storytime
Mon, Aug 03, 6:00pm - 6:45pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Gather the whole family for fun and cozy... more
Gather the whole family for fun and cozy stories, songs, and a collaborative craft. Pajamas are encouraged!
The Skies Above Great Lakes
Mon, Aug 03, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Join us for a closer look at the naval... more
Join us for a closer look at the naval aviation history at Naval Station Great Lakes.
Chaos & Creativity
Tue, Aug 04, 10:00am - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A (R187)
We're cleaning out our closets, and your... more
We're cleaning out our closets, and your imagination can turn the clutter into a masterpiece. Stop by this open house to put your own spin on a project with our leftover supplies.
Genealogy One on One
Tue, Aug 04, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Study Room 9
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for... more
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for personalized genealogical research assistance.  
This event is full
Garden Club of Lake Zurich
Tue, Aug 04, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Join us at our monthly meeting. Learn... more
Join us at our monthly meeting. Learn about gardening and meet other local gardeners who want to share tips and gardening accomplishments. All are welcome.
Alzheimer's Support Group
Tue, Aug 04, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
This monthly drop-in event provides... more
This monthly drop-in event provides information and support to those in a caregiving role. For further information please contact Lisa Gaggiano at Ela Township 55+ (847) 438-9160.
Lotería de Plantas/ Plant Lotería
Wed, Aug 05, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Ven a jugar el tradicional juego mexicano... more
Ven a jugar el tradicional juego mexicano para tener la oportunidad de ganar plantas como premios, seleccionadas por Mis Plantitas de Wauconda, y grabar tu propia estaca de jardín personalizada.
This event is full
Cartooning with Mark Anderson (ages 6-12) - My Silly Summer
Thu, Aug 06, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A and B (R186-187)
Join Mark for a lively, interactive... more
Join Mark for a lively, interactive cartooning class. The library will provide your supplies.
Registration opens Saturday, August 1 2026 at 9:00am
Chair Yoga (Zoom)
Thu, Aug 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ela Area Public Library
Yoga is for every body! Join instructor... more
Yoga is for every body! Join instructor Isabel Raci in a gentle seated yoga and meditation session, perfect for seniors and those with limited mobility. Attend any or all sessions.
Queer Book Club - The three lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan
Thu, Aug 06, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
A welcoming and safe space to explore,... more
A welcoming and safe space to explore, read and discuss LGBTQIA+ themed books, while making a themed craft. Let’s celebrate diversity, creativity and the power of storytelling together!
Morning Makers
Fri, Aug 07, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Spend your morning making something fun... more
Spend your morning making something fun in the Forge.
Senior Book Discussion (Zoom and In-Person) - "The Briar Club" by Kate Quinn
Mon, Aug 10, 10:00am - 11:30am
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Books are available in large print,... more
Books are available in large print, audio, and regular print formats.
Ela Township Social Worker in the Library
Mon, Aug 10, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Designated table outside Forge.
Stop by to chat or find wellness,... more
Stop by to chat or find wellness, medical, or emergency resources for a family member or yourself.
Back-to-School Friendship Bracelets (ages 5 and up)
Mon, Aug 10, 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A (R187)
Just in time for the start of the school... more
Just in time for the start of the school year, make friendship bracelets with special messages to trade with friends new and old! At this open house we supply alphabet beads and colorful pony beads.
Rotary Club of Lake Zurich - Rotary Club Meeting
Mon, Aug 10, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Thinking about joining the Rotary Club of... more
Thinking about joining the Rotary Club of Lake Zurich? Come to the meeting and get acquainted. Public is welcome.
Sewing Basics
Mon, Aug 10, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library
Learn to use a sewing machine and create... more
Learn to use a sewing machine and create a simple project. All materials and equipment provided. Due to high interest, registration is limited to one class per person per season. For ages 14+
This event is full
Joyous Japan
Mon, Aug 10, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Japan is the only country among over 60... more
Japan is the only country among over 60 explored that left world traveler Brian Michalski heartbroken to leave.
Back-to-School Friendship Bracelets (ages 5 and up)
Tue, Aug 11, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A (R187)
Just in time for the start of the school... more
Just in time for the start of the school year, make friendship bracelets with special messages to trade with friends new and old! At this open house we supply alphabet beads and colorful pony beads.
Genealogy Interest Group - Webinar Watch Party
Tue, Aug 11, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Adult Computer Lab (R202)
Join us the 2nd Tuesday of each month for... more
Join us the 2nd Tuesday of each month for a timely topic followed by personal research time. Bring your questions and share research strategies. Newcomers welcome!
Mah-Jongg 101 - A 4-Week Series
Tue, Aug 11, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room B (R117B)
Now is your chance to learn this fun game... more
Now is your chance to learn this fun game of skill and strategy from an experienced Mah Jongg instructor! Beginners MUST attend all four sessions. No exceptions.
This event is full
Descubre y Crea en el Forge en Familia
Tue, Aug 11, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Descubre el Forge creando proyectos con... more
Descubre el Forge creando proyectos con la cortadora láser, bordadora, máquina de coser y más. Este programa será en español.
Books & Brews
Tue, Aug 11, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Buffalo Creek Brewing
Join us for Books & Brews. We will meet... more
Join us for Books & Brews. We will meet in-person at Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove. Contact readers@eapl.org with questions.
This event is full
Descubre y Crea en el Forge en Familia
Tue, Aug 11, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Descubre el Forge creando proyectos con... more
Descubre el Forge creando proyectos con la cortadora láser, bordadora, máquina de coser y más. Este programa será en español.
Neurodiverse Meetup Group
Wed, Aug 12, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Amy, a librarian who identifies as AuDHD... more
Amy, a librarian who identifies as AuDHD runs a Neurodiverse Meetup Group. Open to adults 18+ with Autism level 1 diagnosis, ADHD, or otherwise identify as neurodiverse.
Storytime in the Park
Thu, Aug 13, 10:00am - 10:45am
Paulus Park
Grab your blanket and sunscreen and meet... more
Grab your blanket and sunscreen and meet the librarians at Paulus Park for a fun outdoor storytime! Location may change depending on weather. Check the library website for updates.
Warm Up Lake Zurich Yarn Group (In-Person)
Thu, Aug 13, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
Join us for our monthly Yarn crafting... more
Join us for our monthly Yarn crafting meetings, have fun & socialize as we knit & crochet & discuss everything yarn. All levels welcome. (R)
Ela Library Quilt Talks (In Person)
Thu, Aug 13, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
Join us in our Quilt talks meeting to... more
Join us in our Quilt talks meeting to discuss and learn about fabrics and quilt making. All skill levels are welcome, "Show and tell" is always a fun feature! (R)
Coloring club - with TikToker Janine Lana
Sat, Aug 15, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Would you like to meet people who love... more
Would you like to meet people who love coloring? TikTok influencer Janine Lana will be available to share some tips and tricks while you color with others who love coloring as much as you!
Miniature Painting
Mon, Aug 17, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Learn how to paint miniature figures and... more
Learn how to paint miniature figures and paint one of your own. 
This event is full
Memory Cafe
Tue, Aug 18, 10:00am - 11:30am
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
People experiencing memory loss due to... more
People experiencing memory loss due to Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive issues are invited to attend with care partners. For questions call BACOA at 847 381-5030.
Mah-Jongg 101 - A 4-Week Series
Tue, Aug 18, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room B (R117B)
Now is your chance to learn this fun game... more
Now is your chance to learn this fun game of skill and strategy from an experienced Mah Jongg instructor! Beginners MUST attend all four sessions. No exceptions.
This event is full
Blood Drive
Thu, Aug 20, 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Front Lawn
Every donation has the power to save... more
Every donation has the power to save lives. Join us in giving the gift of life and helping ensure hospitals have blood available when it’s needed most.
Register
Crochet Basics - A Beginner Workshop
Thu, Aug 20, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Discover the fundamentals of crochet and... more
Discover the fundamentals of crochet and begin your fiber arts journey.
This event is full
Ela Library Foundation Annual Meeting
Fri, Aug 21, 10:00am - 11:30am
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Annual meeting of the Ela Library Foundation
Rotary Club of Lake Zurich - Rotary Club Meeting
Mon, Aug 24, 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Thinking about joining the Rotary Club of... more
Thinking about joining the Rotary Club of Lake Zurich? Come to the meeting and get acquainted. Public is welcome.
Children's Chess with Knights of the Future (grades K-3)
Mon, Aug 24, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A and B (R186-187)
Through hands-on instruction and exciting... more
Through hands-on instruction and exciting activities, high school volunteers meet kids where they're at, whether it's solid knowledge or no experience at all. Register once for this 5-week session.
Registration opens Saturday, August 1 2026 at 9:00am
Outdoor Concert -- Denny Diamond - A Neil Diamond Story
Mon, Aug 24, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Back Lawn
Celebrate the tunes of the legendary Neil... more
Celebrate the tunes of the legendary Neil Diamond with performer Denny Diamond.
Mah-Jongg 101 - A 4-Week Series
Tue, Aug 25, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room B (R117B)
Now is your chance to learn this fun game... more
Now is your chance to learn this fun game of skill and strategy from an experienced Mah Jongg instructor! Beginners MUST attend all four sessions. No exceptions.
This event is full
Chapter One: Creative Writing Workshop
Tue, Aug 25, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Join us for an introduction to creative... more
Join us for an introduction to creative writing! This beginner-friendly workshop is designed for adults looking to explore the fundamentals of creative writing. No experience necessary!
Small Business Tips & Tactics
Wed, Aug 26, 9:00am - 10:00am
ZOOM - Your Home
Jennifer Barnes of JB Organizing invites... more
Jennifer Barnes of JB Organizing invites participants to go from business idea to actual business plan. From brainstorming to plan development to ways to scale, Jennifer will cover it all.
LEGO Club (ages 6-12)
Wed, Aug 26, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A and B (R186-187)
If you enjoy building with LEGO bricks,... more
If you enjoy building with LEGO bricks, this program is for you! Create and construct using your own ideas or try one of our challenges.
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