Our History

In 1990, Alfred M. Silberfeld invited three friends to join him in forming the Delray Jewish Genealogical Society. Their first meetings were held around Al’s kitchen table.

The following year, genealogist Mona Morris, a recent arrival from New Jersey, met with Al and suggested that they join forces and become the Jewish Genealogical Society of Palm Beach County, Inc.

Under the energetic leadership of co-founders Silberfeld and Morris, the ten member society expanded rapidly.

JGSPBCI Today

The Jewish Genealogical Society of Palm Beach County, Inc. (JGSPBCI), now celebrating its eighteenth "chai" year, is a dynamic organization which has received national and international awards in recognition of its outstanding achievements in the advancement of genealogy. Membership is open to everyone regardless of religion.

JGSPBCI meets the second Wednesday of each month, September-May, 12:30PM at the South County Civic Center, Delray Beach. Brick Wall Sessions begin at 12:30 PM. Special Interest Groups (SIGS) meet at 11:30 am.

Today, our award-winning society, with an active membership close to 300, is the fifth largest Jewish Genealogical Society in the United States.

In 2001, the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies presented us with the Outstanding Programming Award; and, in 2003, we were awarded the Best Publication Award for our Beginners and Intermediate Genealogical Workbook, which is now available at several resource centers in the Palm Beach County Area. Copies of our workbooks are available at all branches of the Palm Beach County Library system.

What we offer:

• Monthly programs with exceptional lecturers
• Instruction in modern research techniques
• Miniconference
• Annual Gala Luncheon
• Brick wall sessions at each meeting
• Mentoring program for new members
• Special interest groups (SIGS)
• Scattered Seeds, a quarterly newsletter
• Extensive research library

Printable membership application