Poolside Chats

Genealogical Proof for the Everyday Genealogist – November 21, 2024

Webinar Abstract: How do we know if the facts we’ve uncovered about our ancestors are correct? How do we avoid attaching somebody else’s ancestors to our family tree? The Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) is our guide to producing reliable research…

Researching in Federal Land Records

Over the history of the United States, almost 2 billion acres of land have been in Federal ownership at one time or another. Federal public land came into private ownership in a variety of ways, from cash sales to preemption to homesteading. Federal land was also granted to railroads and states, who then sold it to private individuals. We will look at how our ancestors acquired federal land and how to find the records of these transfers.

Finding and Using Digitized Manuscript Collections for Genealogical Research

Webinar Abstract: Manuscript collections can contain genealogical gems. Letters, diaries, photographs, histories, and many more information-packed wonders reside in repositories around the world. Many repositories are digitizing parts of their collections and making them available online, so we don’t have to visit the repository to access the information we’re looking for, but finding these collections can still be a challenge. Learn how to search for online collections, use finding aids to determine their usefulness for our research, and locate amazing records.
Probate Records

Probate Records: Wills and a Whole Lot More

Probate records can be some of the richest genealogical resources. Yes, they can contain wills, but often the best information comes from the other records in the packets—and our ancestors didn’t even have to die to make an appearance in a probate action. Learn about how to find probate records online and mine them for genealogical gems.
How Research Plans Can Up Your Genealogical Game

How Research Plans Can Up Your Genealogical Game

Research is more effective and productive if we make a plan before we dive in. Without planning, we run the risk of overlooking or misunderstanding important records. Learn the steps and techniques of research planning that will save time and frustration and can even help break down brick walls.
What Did You Do in the War, Granny? Women in the Army in World War II

What Did You Do in the War, Granny? Women in the Army in World War II

Over 150,000 women served in or with the Army in four organizations during World War II: the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC), the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), the Army Nurse Corps (ANC), and the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). They performed critical functions, endured hardship, and many lost their lives in the service of their country. Women’s military service in this time period helped change expectations and perceptions about women’s role outside the home. Learn about the pioneering wartime service of these remarkable women and how to find records for those in your family who served.

Annette Burke Lyttle owns Heritage Detective, LLC, providing professional genealogical services in research, education, and writing. She speaks on a variety of genealogical topics at the national, state, and local levels and loves helping people uncover and share their family stories. Annette is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists and the Genealogical Speakers Guild.

A Path to Your Next Research Steps: Using Timelines to Organize, Analyze and Evaluate Evidence

A Path to Your Next Research Steps: Using Timelines to Organize, Analyze and Evaluate Evidence

So you’ve done all this research – now what? How do you figure out what you have and what to look for next? Learn how timelines enable you to organize your information, evaluate your evidence, analyze research results for accuracy, and identify next research steps.

Annette Burke Lyttle owns Heritage Detective, LLC, providing professional genealogical services in research, education, and writing. She speaks on a variety of genealogical topics at the national, state, and local levels and loves helping people uncover and share their family stories.

Find Your Family Stories in Free Online Newspapers

Find Your Family Stories in Free Online Newspapers

Beyond birth, death and marriage notices, historic newspapers can provide information that brings your ancestors and their world to life. Many of these newspapers are available on line at no cost. Learn how to find and use these valuable resources in your family history research.

Annette Burke Lyttle owns Heritage Detective, LLC, providing professional genealogical services in research, education, and writing. She speaks on a number of genealogical topics at the national, state, and local levels and loves helping people uncover and share their family stories. Annette is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists and the Genealogical Speakers Guild, as well as a number of national, state, and local societies.