ANNISTON, AL — The AlaBenton Genealogical Society will continue its yearlong 50th anniversary celebration by hosting its annual Summer Workshop on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, at the Anniston Public Library.
The event will feature guest speaker Larry E. Caver Jr., an Alabama historian, genealogical author specializing in Alabama research, and a founding member of the Old Autauga County Historical Society. In May 2026, Caver received the DAR America 250 Commendation Medal in recognition of his efforts to preserve Alabama’s historical heritage during the nation’s America 250 commemoration.
The workshop will take place in the Ayers Room at the Anniston Public Library. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., and admission is $20 per person. Attendees may register in advance by mailing payment to the Alabama Room or register at the door on the day of the event.
Caver will present two educational sessions focusing on Alabama genealogy research. The first will cover Civil War research, including Alabama Muster Rolls, military records, and foundational research tools. The second session will explore early church history in Alabama and provide guidance on locating and researching church records.
According to the AlaBenton Genealogical Society, the annual workshop serves as its primary fundraiser. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Alabama Room at the Anniston Public Library, helping provide modern genealogy research tools, internet-based research subscriptions, and expanded historical collections for the community.
Organizers said they are honored to welcome Caver as part of the society’s milestone anniversary celebration while continuing their mission of preserving Alabama’s history and supporting genealogical research resources for future generations.
The workshop will be held Saturday, Aug. 1, in the Ayers Room of the Anniston Public Library. Registration opens at 11:30 a.m., and admission is $20.
