Watauga Historical Association

Watauga Historical Association: Preserving the Past to Inspire the Future

The Watauga Historical Association, located in Elizabethton, Tennessee, has dedicated over 50 years to preserving the rich history and heritage of Northeast Tennessee. This museum not only aims to safeguard invaluable historical artifacts but also strives to inspire future generations through educational initiatives and community involvement.

A Beacon for Genealogy Enthusiasts

The Watauga Historical Association has a special focus on genealogy, reflected in the formation of the Watauga Association of Genealogists (WAGS) in 1971. Since its inception, WAGS has provided a platform for family historians and genealogists. The association published its first Bulletin in May 1972, capturing original source data related to Northeast Tennessee and its neighboring areas.

The Bulletin has become an essential resource for genealogical research, providing semi-annual publications in April and October. In 2016, WAGS transitioned to an all-digital format, allowing members to access the Bulletin online, ensuring that this wealth of information is readily available.

Valuable Genealogy Resources

A great tip for genealogy enthusiasts is to utilize free online genealogy books. These out-of-copyright digitized books are often overlooked by researchers but provide significant insights. Notable resources include:

• Internet Archive
• Google Books
• Family Search Digital Library
• Project Gutenberg
• Universal Digital Library, Carnegie-Mellon
• Just Free Books

Upcoming Events and Membership Opportunities

The Watauga Association of Genealogists will resume its monthly meetings in March 2025. These meetings will take place both in-person at the Johnson City Public Library and online via Zoom to accommodate all members. Visitors are always welcome to attend and participate in the discussions.

Membership is open to anyone interested in genealogy or history, with annual dues set at $18. New members receive two issues of the Bulletin during their first year. All members enjoy the opportunity to submit one free query per Bulletin issue.

For those interested in joining or learning more about WAGS, please reach out via email at wagsnetn1971@gmail.com. Join this vibrant community dedicated to exploring and preserving the rich history of Northeast Tennessee!