The Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society (OBCGS) has long stood as a cornerstone for those seeking to uncover their ancestry in the mountains of western North Carolina. Located in the historically rich city of Asheville, this society has served generations of researchers, historians, and curious individuals hoping to trace family roots, understand their heritage, and piece together the lives of those who came before them. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned genealogist, the society offers access to unique records, dedicated volunteers, and a deeply rooted community committed to preserving the past.
History and Mission of the Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society
The Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society was founded in 1977 with the primary mission of collecting, preserving, and sharing genealogical and historical materials related to Buncombe County and the surrounding western North Carolina region. As one of the oldest genealogical societies in the state, it has cultivated an extensive archive of local records, family files, cemetery surveys, and regional histories.
Its name honors the original expanse of Buncombe County, which, at the time of its creation in 1791, included many of the counties that now make up western North Carolina. As counties split off over the decades, the name Old Buncombe came to symbolize the broader region that shares historical ties, making the society’s work relevant beyond just modern Buncombe County boundaries.
Genealogical Resources and Services
One of the society’s most significant contributions is its genealogical library. The OBCGS Library houses an impressive collection of resources that includes:
- Family histories and genealogical manuscripts
- Early church records and registers
- Military service records and pension applications
- Wills, deeds, and land grant abstracts
- Cemetery surveys and tombstone inscriptions
- Transcribed census data and tax records
- Vertical files and surname files with newspaper clippings, correspondence, and notes
The society also provides a research service for those unable to visit in person. For a modest fee, volunteers will conduct research requests using the materials available in the library. This is particularly helpful for distant descendants looking for family connections in western North Carolina.
Publication and Preservation Efforts
In addition to its library services, the Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society publishes a quarterly journal titledA Lot of Bunkum, filled with member-contributed family research, local history topics, and updates on the society’s activities. This publication serves as a vital tool for sharing newly uncovered information and encouraging collaboration among genealogists.
The society also engages in preservation activities, including digitizing fragile documents and photographs, recording oral histories, and maintaining cemetery surveys. These efforts help ensure that even as time progresses, the memory and documentation of past generations are not lost.
Events, Workshops, and Community Outreach
Throughout the year, the OBCGS hosts educational workshops, presentations, and speaker series focused on various topics relevant to genealogy and local history. Events often feature guest lecturers who provide expertise on tracing African American ancestry, using DNA in genealogy, understanding migration patterns, and reading historic handwriting in old documents.
The society participates in community events, historical fairs, and partnerships with schools and local heritage organizations. Through these collaborations, OBCGS nurtures an appreciation for family history and encourages younger generations to take an interest in their roots.
Volunteer Opportunities and Membership
The society is a volunteer-run organization, and much of its success stems from the dedication of its members. Volunteers assist in cataloging collections, indexing records, and guiding researchers who visit the library. Becoming a member of the Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society provides several benefits, including access to exclusive content, discounts on publications, and opportunities to engage with others who share a passion for genealogy.
Membership is open to anyone, regardless of whether they have ancestral ties to Buncombe County. Many people join because of their general interest in family research or in supporting the society’s preservation mission. Members also receive the quarterly journal and can contribute topics or family stories for publication.
The Importance of Buncombe County in Genealogy
Buncombe County holds a unique place in American genealogical research. With a history dating back to the 18th century, the region saw waves of settlers move through the Appalachian Mountains some staying permanently, while others moved westward, leaving traces of their presence in marriage records, land deeds, and burial grounds. For many families, this county served as a point of migration and transition.
Because Buncombe County once encompassed a much larger area, records kept there may pertain to modern counties such as Henderson, Madison, Haywood, and others. For this reason, the Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society’s archive is a critical resource for those researching not only Buncombe ancestry but also the genealogical landscape of western North Carolina as a whole.
Digital Advancements and Online Access
As genealogical research has shifted toward digital platforms, the society has adapted by offering some resources and indexes online. Though many of the most in-depth records remain accessible only through in-person visits, the society continues to expand its digital offerings. Researchers can access some indexes to surnames, publications for sale, and announcements regarding upcoming events via the society’s online presence.
In a world where travel may not always be possible, this movement toward online accessibility helps bridge the gap for researchers across the country and even internationally. Many people with Appalachian heritage or ancestral ties to North Carolina rely on the Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society to fill in gaps in their family tree.
Looking Toward the Future
The future of the Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society rests in its commitment to preserving history and embracing change. As interest in genealogy continues to grow, especially through the popularity of DNA testing and family tree platforms, more individuals are seeking out societies like OBCGS for detailed, local knowledge that broad databases cannot provide.
Through continued volunteer support, community engagement, and archival preservation, the society remains a vital link to the past. It invites the public not just to study history, but to participate in its living preservation. Every document saved, every family story shared, and every name uncovered helps strengthen the connections between past and present.
The Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society stands as a beacon for those seeking to understand the people, places, and stories that shaped the heart of western North Carolina. With its rich archives, educational initiatives, and commitment to historical preservation, it empowers individuals to discover their heritage and pass that knowledge to future generations. In the ever-evolving world of genealogy, the society remains grounded in its purpose honoring the past to illuminate the present.