Birdie Monk Holsclaw was born in 1948 in Staunton, Virginia; she died in 2010 in Gunbarrel, Colorado. Her career spanned thirty-five years and left an enduring legacy.
She was a founding member of the Colorado Genealogical Society’s Computer Interest Group and GENTECH’s Lexicon Working Group and made significant contributions to the development of new methodologies. Her vision led to the creation of the Black Oak Mapper—a software program that maps land descriptions. She also lent her expertise to land records. Another focus of Holsclaw’s research was historical studies, particularly records concerning schools for the deaf and blind.
Holsclaw was a renowned educator. Over the course of her career, she taught at institutions such as the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (IGHR) and the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy (SLIG) and lectured at national conferences for NGS and the Federation of Genealogical Societies. She authored articles for prestigious genealogical journals including the NGS Quarterly and Professional Genealogy: A Manual for Researchers, Writers, Editors, Lecturers, and Librarians.
Perhaps her greatest and most lasting impact was on the careers of countless genealogists. As a mentor, she nurtured their careers, encouraging novices and professionals alike. Holsclaw deeply believed in the potential of others and generously offered them her knowledge, expertise, and support. Her impact on their careers was truly profound.