About Us
The OGSH was established in 1993 by a group of Okinawans and now has more than 100 members. Affiliated to the Hawaii United Okinawa Association, the society offers free genealogy services, delivers educational lectures to promote the rich Okinawan history and culture.
Free Services Include:
- Genealogical research
- Non-commercial translation
- Assistance in preparing a family registration request
Resources Include:
- Books
- Newspapers
- Periodicals
- Published “short stories” books of oral histories
- Research Guides
Our History
The Okinawan Genealogical Society of Hawaii emerged from a genealogy workshop conducted by Dr. Bernice Hirai and the Hawaii Hiroshima Heritage Study Group. On March 20, 1993, a month after the workshop, Warren Higa, then HUOA president, called a meeting to inquire about forming a club. Thirty-four individuals signed up to become the first members of the Okinawan Heritage Club. On Oct. 18, 1997, the Club signed by-laws, added a genealogy component and changed its name to the Okinawan Genealogical Society of Hawaii.
Officers for 2025
President
Jackie Toma
Vice President
Open
2nd Vice President
Open
Treasurer
Virginia Tully
Assistant Treasurer
Lynn Bourgeois
Corresponding Secretary
Anne Oshiro
Recording Secretary
Susan Ramelb
Advisors
Donna Nakamura & Rodney Kohagura
OGSH Membership
With only a $10 membership fee, you can be a member of OGSH.
