Town Hall Meetings as Far as the Eye Can See!

Well… for the next few months, at least! We’re delighted to share the topics and dates for the next three Parke Society Monthly Town Hall Meetings, and we hope they’ll spark your curiosity—and inspire you to join us. Go ahead and mark your calendar; you won’t want to miss a single one.

All Town Hall meetings are held on Zoom and are open to everyone, whether you’re a longtime Parke Society member or simply curious about your Park/e/s roots. Not a member yet? These meetings are a perfect way to see what the Society is all about and decide if membership is right for you. And if you are a member, invite family members to join us as well!

Here’s what’s coming up:

Sunday, December 14, 2025 · 3:00 pm Eastern

Notable Park/e/s Throughout History

Led by Parke Society President Susan Van Allen

Most of our Park/e/s ancestors were hardworking, “salt-of-the-earth” people whose lives and contributions mattered deeply within their families and communities. From time to time, however, a Park/e/s stepped into the broader spotlight—making a mark in politics, literature, music, the arts, science, invention, athletics, and more.

For instance, did you know there have been not one, but two Park men who became Mr. Universe? Join us as we explore a fascinating sampling of Park/e/s individuals who brought recognition—and sometimes fame and fortune—to the surname.

Sunday, January 4, 2026 · 3:00 pm Eastern

Looking Ahead: The Parke Society in 2026 and Beyond

Join members of the Parke Society staff and Board as we share what lies ahead in the coming year. From new projects to expanding initiatives, there’s a lot to be excited about—and plenty of ways for members to get involved. If you’ve ever wondered how the Society works or how you might play a part, this meeting is for you.

Sunday, February 1, 2026 · 3:00 pm Eastern

DNA in Action: A Deep Dive into a Park/e/s Genetic Group

February marks the first in a new series of Town Hall meetings that will focus on individual genetic groups within the Park/e/s DNA Surname Project. These sessions are designed not only for participants within a specific group, but for everyone interested in learning how to approach the “big picture” of genetic genealogy.

In this session, we’ll take a close look at Genetic Group 046, which currently includes 45 participants and continues to grow. The group contains at least thirteen different lineage keys, several tracing their origins to County Donegal, Ireland. Together, we’ll explore how traditional family tree research and targeted DNA testing can help connect these seemingly separate lineages into a more cohesive family story.

Even if Group 046 isn’t your group, you’ll come away with valuable insights and practical strategies you can apply to your own Park/e/s research. And who knows—your group could be next!

We hope you’ll join us for one—or all—of these engaging and informative Town Hall meetings. Whether you’re just starting your Park/e/s journey or have been researching for years, there’s something here for everyone.

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