Polish Genealogical Society of New York State

The Polish Genealogical Society of New York State (PGSNYS) is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) membership organization based in Cheektowaga, NY, dedicated to preserving and advancing Polish genealogical research. Since its establishment in 1988, PGSNYS has served individuals and families seeking to trace their Polish heritage, with a primary focus on families with New York State connections and the broader Western New York and Southern Ontario regions.

PGSNYS provides comprehensive genealogical research support through multiple specialized services. The organization maintains and regularly updates extensive databases featuring digitized church records, newspaper archives, and historical collections that members can search to build their family trees. The Society's unique indexes to historical materials offer researchers direct access to primary source documents that are difficult to find elsewhere. Additionally, PGSNYS offers educational programs and publications designed to foster effective genealogical research skills, helping both beginners and experienced researchers overcome obstacles in their family history investigations.

Beyond research support, PGSNYS actively promotes Polish history and culture through educational initiatives and community collaboration. The organization hosts regular monthly meetings featuring presentations by genealogy experts covering topics such as Polish census records, Lithuanian research, cluster research techniques, and breaking through brick wall challenges. Members benefit from research nights, access to specialized databases, and assistance from knowledgeable volunteers. PGSNYS also collaborates with other Polish community organizations to strengthen interest in genealogical research and cultural preservation, making it an essential resource for anyone researching Polish family history in the Cheektowaga, NY area and beyond.