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Whether you’re a seasoned historian or a first-time genealogist, you’ll find support, inspiration, and resources for your journey. While our specialty is Bell County history, we also help trace family roots beyond county borders.
Events & Meetings
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Email us at TxBCGS@gmail.com
At our meetings, we share stories, learn new research techniques, explore, and build friendships while diving into the fascinating world of genealogy. Join us to uncover the stories of your ancestors, connect with your heritage, and preserve family legacies for generations to come.
March 26, 2026 - How to Transcribe German Church Records
and Intro to Salado Museum & College Park
Join us for our upcoming Bell County Genealogical Society meeting featuring a special guest presentation by Theresa Berns, professional translator and founder of TB Translations. https://www.tb-translations.com/
Many genealogists encounter German church records when researching immigrant ancestors, but the language, handwriting, and terminology can make these records difficult to interpret. In this presentation, Theresa will introduce practical strategies for transcribing German church records, including how to recognize common words, understand old script styles, and work through baptism, marriage, and burial entries. Whether you are just beginning German research or have already encountered these records in your family history, this session will provide useful tools to help you read and interpret them more confidently.
We will also hear a brief introduction to the Salado Museum and College Park, a local historical resource preserving the history of Salado and the historic Salado College campus.
This program is open to anyone interested in family history, local history, and learning new research skills. Guests are always welcome.
We offer free genealogy guidance.
Members of the Bell County Genealogical Society will help you with researching your family tree.
Temple Public Library
100 W. Adams Ave. Temple, Texas 76501
Hours: 4th Saturday - 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Every Tuesday - 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Killeen Main Library
205 E. Church Ave. Killeen, Texas 76541
Hours: 4th Saturday 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
What We Do
We are a Registered Educational Nonprofit (EIN: 30-0089312) serving the public through genealogy, local history preservation, and community programs.
Our Purpose
- To locate, collect, preserve, and publish genealogical and historical materials related to the United States, Central Texas, and Bell County.
- To assist individuals researching their family heritage and educate members in genealogical research and publication.
- To promote high genealogical standards and emphasize accuracy through careful documentation.
- To collaborate with local, regional, state, and national organizations focused on genealogy and local history.
- To share knowledge with the public through meetings, classes, lectures, and community events.
About Bell County, Texas
Bell County is situated in Central Texas, nestled between Waco and Austin, and bisected by Interstate 35. The county features the Blackland Prairie to the east, primarily known for farming, and the Edwards Plateau to the west, which is largely used for ranching.
Established on January 22, 1850, Bell County was named after Peter Hansborough Bell, the newly elected governor at the time. The county seat, Belton, originally known as Nolanville, adopted its current name on April 22, 1852.
The settlement and development of Bell County were part of the Mexican land grant to the Moses Austin Colony. Early settlers traveled up the Brazos River from the coast, following the Little River and Leon River into the area. Bell County is home to several towns, including Temple, Belton, Killeen, Salado, Rogers, Troy, Little River-Academy, and Holland.
About Us
President -
Angel Swalve
First Vice President -
Vacant
Second Vice President -
Jeannie Williford
Recording Secretary -
Vacant
Treasurer -
Eric VanPragg
Corresponding Secretary -
Mary Duke
Historian -
Vacant
Immediate Past President
Judy Tyler