Mission / Purpose

The purpose of this organization shall be:
  • To promote interest and study of the immigration of the “Palatines” and other German-speaking  peoples to North America,
  • To exchange information relating to the life and times of that immigration,
  • To provide information which may help members locate the origins of their German-speaking  ancestors,
  • To encourage fellowship and learning among the members by publishing a newsletter and conducting  educational programs.
The Pennsylvania Chapter is a non-profit genealogical society founded in 1977, one of six state chapters within the Palatines to America (PalAm) German Genealogy Society. “Palatine” is just another term (derogatory in the early days) for German-speaking immigrants to North America and elsewhere. 
 
Our Chapter seeks to facilitate discoveries related to Germanic immigrants who settled in or passed through Pennsylvania, document their stories, share relevant information, and encourage fellowship and learning among members. We have members across the country and around the world. 


Operating Year: October 2024 - September 2025


Officers
President: Janet E Rupert
Vice President: Kenneth L Shuck
Treasurer: Lloyd Shenberger
Secretary: Caroline Tassey
 
Board Members
Membership Registrar: Lucia Hansen
Penn Pal Editor: Kerry Knodle
Programming: Joanne Rumpler
Member-at-Large: Michael Barger
Member-at-Large: Virginia Herte
Member-at-Large: Roberta M Newcomer
Member-at-Large: Richard Wade
Member-at-Large: Vacant
 
Committees
Programming: Joanne Rumpler