The Genealogy Society of Southern Illinois (GSSI) was organized in Carterville, Illinois in March 1973, for the purpose of encouraging the science of genealogy; helping others gather genealogical information; and preserving, protecting, and publishing information of importance to Southern Illinois genealogy. Our Constitution and a list of current Officers are posted on this website.

GSSI includes in its geographic area the twenty-eight counties of Illinois south of interstate 70: Alexander, Clay, Clinton, Edwards, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Lawrence, Marion, Massac, Monroe, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Randolph, Richland, Saline, St. Clair, Union, Wabash, Washington, Wayne, White, and Williamson.

The GSSI Genealogy Collection at the John A. Logan College Library consists of more than 1000 books and several hundred reels of microfilm.  The collection does not circulate, but it is catalogued and may be searched through the JALC Library. Once at the Library site, click on "Library Catalog" to search for GSSI Books. Before planning to visit the Library, always consult the College Library Home Page for current opening and closing hours.

The Society issues a monthly E-Newsletter, and publishes a quarterly journal, The Saga of Southern Illinois, both of which are distributed to all members of the society.  GSSI also has an extensive list of both book and on-line publications.