The Old Edgefield District Genealogical Society (OEDGS) recognizes that the interest in African American family history has greatly increased over the past several years. The OEDGS also realizes that this form of genealogy is unique and requires special attention. With this in mind, the OEDGS has formed a society that is dedicated to meeting the needs of this particular type of research.

This new society falls under the auspices of the OEDGS, but has a separate board of directors to oversee its operation and management and a separate newsletter dedicated to African American history and genealogy. The name for this organization is the Old Edgefield District African American Genealogical Society (OEDAAGS) and will focus primarily on the Old Edgefield District, which includes parts of Aiken, Greenwood, Saluda and McCormick Counties. The organization is not limited to only research in the Old Edgefield District, but will encompass the entire state of South Carolina. Furthermore, this society is open to all persons who are interested in exploring African American history and heritage.

Membership dues are $40.00 a year. These dues will not only provide an individual with membership in the OEDAAGS, but will also give him or her membership in the OEDGS and the SCGS (South Carolina Genealogical Society). Therefore, an individual will receive the newsletters of all three societies--Homeplace (OEDAAGS newsletter), Quill (OEDGS newsletter), and The Carolina Herald (SCGS newsletter).   He or she will also have free access to the Tompkins Library and its bountiful genealogical and historical resources. Individuals who are already members of the OEDGS will only have to pay the extra  $15.00 to join the OEDAAGS.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Tonya Browder at (803) 637-4010.