The Shamrock Genealogist: Genealogy On The Road #4 - Finding A Piece of Lincoln in Folsom

Folsom Public Library

I recently returned from a work trip to Folsom, California. It was a hot one! Over 100 degrees each day. At least no humidity but a bit too hot to stop by a local cemetery.

Due to my work and flight schedule, I had only a short amount of time for my next #genealogyontheroad excursion. I visited the Folsom Public Library one afternoon after work. It's a small library and had only two small shelves held the genealogy books (seen below).

I love uncovering local history at the public library. You always find some kind of treasure and this trip didn't disappoint. I wandered into one of the reading rooms (which was really beautiful and relaxing). On the wall there were several frames that had a marked up document with lots of edits. I peered closer and noticed a framed note that said "The original copy of President Abraham Lincoln's first Inaugural Speech was presented to the City of Folsom, California on June 7, 2010 in honor of the 150th Anniversary of the Pony Express". It goes on to say that on March 4, 1861 President Lincoln delivered his first speech and it was dispatched by Pony Express to Folsom, CA. It was then later transmitted by telegraph to Sacramento and across the state of California.

I have some local library tips to make the best out of your trip:

1. Obtain a guest pass to use the computers. Folsom Public Library had theirs in a bowl by Reference - it's free to use. Then peruse the library's databases to see if you can uncover anything that may help your research - newspapers, local history, etc.

2. Wander the genealogy section. You may uncover a book that few libraries have access to.

3. Check out the local history section, in particular if you had ancestors in the area. Check to see if there is an index of relevant surnames and locations

4. Ask the reference librarian if they have any genealogy resources. Unfortunately, Folsom didn't have a genealogy club or regular events but they did direct me to Sacramento, which I previously blogged about.

What local history treasures have you found in a public library (either near you or on the road)? Any genealogy connections?