Imperial Polk Genealogical Society 

History

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We are a 501©(3) nonprofit organization that fosters genealogical research. The Imperial Polk Genealogical Society (IPGS) convened its inaugural meeting at the residence of its first president, Alvie Davison, on 30 September 1981.  Fifteen attendees ere recognized as charter members, and the initial roster listed 43 members. Open to all with an interest in genealogical research, the society welcomed both annual and lifetime memberships.

 

Officially chartered in January 1983, IPGS then reported membership of 71. Under strong leadership and a clear mission, the group flourished into a structured nonprofit entity. Regular monthly meetings featured business sessions, educational programs with renowned speakers, research support, and community project involvement. Members organized annual seminars with notable speakers, drawing attendees from across Florida.

 

The Society’s members had amassed a resource library housed at Contractor’s Way in Lakeland.  Following the sale of the building in 2011, the collection was gifted to the Quintilla Greer Burton Archives Center, managed by the East Hillsborough Historical Society in Plant City, 15 miles west of Lakeland.

 

Over time, IPGS membership has spanned across Polk County, encompassing Auburndale, Bartow, Bradley Junction, Davenport, Ft. Meade, Frostproof, Highland city, Kathleen, Lakeland, Lake Alfred, Lake Wales, Mulberry, Polk City, and Winter Haven.

 

Our reach also extended to nearby regions, including Bradley and brandon in Hillsborough County, Dade City, Land O’ Lakes, Lithia, Plant City, and Valrico. Members also hailed from North Carolina and Texas.

 

Members’ research interests have been diverse covering surnames and locales across the United States and beyond, fostering collaborative efforts internationally.