Current Reading

Root Cellar's Journal
Image of PRESERVES
Spring 2026
Available only to members, who
must log in for access.
Root Cellar's Monthly Newsletter
Geni Gram image
July 2026
Available to the Public.
 


Special Program

An evening with Stephanie Carter, Executive Producer of the hit PBS series Secrets of the Dead.

Wednesday, July 22  •  6:30 PM - 8 PM

The event will be held in the Mary Stuart Rogers Foundation Studio at PBS KVIE, 2030 W. El Camino Avenue, Sacramento

Go behind the scenes of Secrets of the Dead and discover how some of history's greatest mysteries are investigated and brought to life on screen. Learn about the research, storytelling, and production process that transforms archaeological discoveries and historical evidence into compelling television with Executive Producer Stephanie Carter.

Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in an audience Q&A, meet Stephanie Carter, and explore local Sacramento-area organizations dedicated to preserving history through archival collections, research, and historical resources. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a documentary fan, or simply curious about how the series is made, this special event offers a fascinating look inside one of public media's most acclaimed programs.

Tickets are free, but seating is limited. RESERVE NOW!

 More information here: https://tinyurl.com/5n8zzwj4


 

Volunteers Needed

As an all-volunteer organization, we offer various opportunities for those willing to help. You can serve at the Orangevale Library once a month, scan donated materials at your convenience, or assist in organizing volunteers. We're also looking for participants in a project at the Center for Sacramento History. If you're interested in meeting new people, contact us at: info@rootcellar.org.

Visit the Root Cellar Library

Where? Fourth floor, California State Archives, 1020 O Street, Sacramento
When? Monday through Friday, 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM (Closed on holidays)
What's there? Over 6,200 books covering all 50 states and several foreigh countries, and a special section of family histories
 
And there’s more…The library has a special sharing program called “50/50”. Let’s say there is a book you would like to use in your research. You have checked our online catalog and we do not have the book. You can purchase the book, do your research, and then donate the book to the Root Cellar Library. In turn, the library reimburses you 50% of your purchase cost. Just think, you accomplish your research goal and in return for donating the book you receive money back! Great deal for you and your library. Just donate the book and show proof of purchase with a receipt and receive a check from the library. It is a WIN-WIN for all! Need more information? Contact Carolee Jones at library@rootcellar.org.


Publications for Sale

If you are researching history of the Sacramento area, consider purchasing titles produced by the dedicated volunteers of Root Cellar. Over several years our members have extracted and/or indexed vital records from the archives of the City and the County of Sacramento. These publications are also available for use in our library.
Check out the updated list of ROOT CELLAR Publications for sale. 
Click HERE to go to the Publication List.

Special Interest Groups and Workshops

Are you new to genealogy?
Are you a "seasoned" genealogist plagued by pesky "brick walls"?
 
Our workshops and special interest groups ("SIGS") may be just what you need to further your research efforts.  Consider participating with one or more of the following:
  • Root Cellar Genealogy Workshop - 2nd Wednesday from 1:00PM - 3:00PM
  • Family Tree Maker SIG - 3rd  & 4th Thursdays from 11:30AM - 1:30PM
  • TextExpander for Genealogy - 1st Mondays from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Check out the GeniGram on the upper right of this page for the current information and locations of these groups. Or click on the "Meetings" link of the "Home" menu option at left, or scroll down the list of meetings at right.

BOD Meetings

Our monthly Board of Directors meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10am to 12pm. Any member of our Society is welcome to attend. To receive a meeting invitation, please email our President at info@rootcellar.org at least three days before the meeting. 

Join Our Fabulous Society

Join online with a credit/debit card 
   
Join by printing a form and mailing it with a check
 
If you think you may have been a member before, no matter how long ago, please renew so we don't end up with two records for you. If you don't remember your username and/or password we can help, just email the Membership Chair (membership@rootcellar.org).

Renew Your Membership

Join us for another outstanding year of great programs.
If you have already renewed, thank you for your continued support. 
 
Click button to renew quickly and easily. After logging in, select "Your Profile" to complete your renewal.
Fill out the membership form and mail it with your check.



 

Thursday, Aug. 13th
The Importance of Creating and Using a Research Plan
A genealogical research plan does not need to be overly complicated. It is your guide! Learn how to create and utilize an effective research plan. This tool can increase the likelihood of solving brick-walls and other genealogical problems.   Stephanie K. West is an educator and researcher with a focus ...
Thursday, Sep. 10th
Shakin' Out the Smiths
Thursday, Oct. 8th
Weaving the Strands of Your Family Tapestry
There is an art to the process of telling your family’s history. There are so many details to research: names, dates, places, circumstances. Like crafting a tapestry, we insert the plain facts of our ancestors’ existence while taking care to blend in the color and texture that can only ...
Wednesday, Oct. 14th
First of Four weekly classes.. topic to be announced
This class, open to all, will kick off our annual fall series of free classes for Root Cellar members.  The remaining classes, Oct 21, Oct. 28, Nov. 4, will be open to members only, and will be done by Zoom. More information will be forthcoming....      
Thursday, Dec. 10th
Christmas Party Luncheon
Mark your calendar. More details will follow soon.