The Audrain County Area Genealogical Society (ACAGS), a nonprofit organization, is proud to announce the celebration of its 35th anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 19. The event will kick off at 9:30 a.m. on the lower level of the Mexico-Audrain County Library, located at 305 W. Jackson Street in Mexico, Missouri. Attendees will enjoy a special presentation by one of the Society’s Charter members, Tim Dollens.  The presentation will be held at 10:30 a.m. The public is invited to attend, explore the Genealogy Library, gather genealogical handouts, view storyboards, and share in refreshments.

Founded in 1987 by a group of dedicated amateur genealogists, ACAGS was established with a mission to promote the study of family history, genealogical research, and the preservation of historical records. The Society has played a crucial role in collecting and sharing genealogical information, with the Mexico-Audrain County Library generously providing a dedicated space on its lower level for meetings and the storage of valuable county records. This area, staffed by knowledgeable volunteers, is open to the public for research and assistance.  

The Genealogy Library offers several microfilm readers, allowing researchers to access a wealth of historical data. The collection features histories of Audrain County and surrounding areas, including family genealogies, cemetery records, court documents, and plat maps. Additionally, it offers histories from various regions of Missouri and other states.  The materials in the Genealogy Library are available for in-library use only and cannot be checked out.  Assisting with research and responding to public queries remain central to the Society’s mission.

Throughout the years, ACAGS has also conducted extensive surveys of Audrain County cemeteries, meticulously recording of the burials and photographing tombstones. These records, along with many others, are readily available for research at the Genealogy Library. The Society also offers approximately 35 books and index listings for sale, which, along with membership dues and occasional donations, form the primary sources of its funding. In 2014, ACAGS was granted Tax-Exempt Status, enabling the Society to apply for grants to further its archival efforts and support the acquisition of new microfilm reader-printers.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 posed challenges for ACAGS, leading to a decline in membership due to the inability to hold in-person meetings and the temporary closure of the Genealogy Library. This year, the Society is focused on revitalizing its membership through social media, word of mouth, and other outreach efforts to reengage the community with its vital mission. The Genealogy Library remains a treasure trove of county and family histories, among other resources, available for both members and the public to explore.

We invite everyone to join us in celebrating 35 years of preserving Audrain County's history and discovering all that the Audrain County Area Genealogical Society has to offer.