Exploring Origins Part 1

Using DNA To Explore Our Origins, Part 1

The use of Y chromosome and mitochondrial DNA in genealogy is a technology that has helped many better understand their origins. There are specific deep ancestral groups that can identify a person as a member of a specific genetic and genealogical community. Because DNA is an immutable record, it can provide links where paper records cannot. We will cover the basic language used in DNA testing, we will cover its limitations, and applications, specifically for those who are not of Northern European origin. Your DNA has much to share with you, to help you determine your origins, as well as help you connect with others on a similar path.

A microbiology graduate, Diahan Southard worked before and after graduation for the Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation. Growing up with the budding genetic genealogy industry lead her to her current position as Your DNA Guide, where she provides personalized, interactive experiences to assist individuals and families in interpreting their genetic results in the context of their genealogical information.

Brick Walls

Attacking Brick Walls Using Technology and Traditional Methods

Inevitably there are brick walls in genealogy. These situations take extra time, effort, and money to solve, giving up isn’t the answer.  Unusual and little-known resources can make all the difference. We will use step-by-step processes using various substitutes and thinking out of the box to facilitate assistance in breaking through difficult brick walls.

Claire V. Brisson-Banks, BS, MLIS AGR is the Owner of Timeless Genealogies, a provider of ancestral and forensic research services. Her personal areas of expertise are Technology Advances, Social Media, US, Canadian, England, Scotland, Brick Walls, and Working with and Involving Youth in Family History and Genealogy. She is an experienced professional and leader in various facets of technology, education, leadership, marketing, genealogy, and an online professor.

Florida Agriculture and Our Florida Ancestors – Part 1

Before Europeans came to Florida, some native Indian tribes practiced agriculture. Thanks to writings left by French and Spanish explorers, we know crops were produced as early as 1513. The tribes involved in this were the Apalachee in northwest Florida, Timucua in central Florida, and the Potano who lived in the Alachua plain.
Overseas Genealogy

A Guide to Overseas Genealogy

Crossing the pond is easier than you think. We’ll present the history of immigrant travel into the US and how to find genealogical records in most European countries. A list of books and over 70 American and European websites for genealogical research and a guide for translating records will be provided. This presentation covers five areas of overseas genealogy: 1) emigration 2) voyage details 3) immigration, 4) naturalization and 5) websites both American and European.
Research Plan

Ready-Set-Plan! Developing a One-Step Research Plan

The probability of creating a successful research project is greatly enhanced when the project begins with a precise statement of research goals and reasoning for the process. A strong basis of collected information is required for a solid, research plan. It is essential that a researcher be familiar with the data or evidence gathered about the subject and location of the project. A researcher with experience and knowledge of this base will be more likely to develop a good plan. This lack of knowledge about the principal research subject is the most likely reason a genealogical research plan will stumble or fail. Learn a simple technique for breaking down difficult research problems into manageable segments. Learn to get more research done while remaining focused.

J. Mark Lowe, CG, FUGA is a full-time professional genealogist, author, and lecturer. While sharing personal experiences that help beginning and experienced researchers gain new skills and insights for research, he specializes in original records and manuscripts throughout the South. Mark lives in Robertson County, Tennessee, along the Kentucky border.

Courthouse Research

That First Trip to the Courthouse

If there is one home truth in genealogy research, it’s this: not everything is available online. Sooner or later, every genealogist has got to make that first trip to the courthouse to check out the original records available there. How to prepare for that trip, the rules of the road, what to expect, what to ask for, and how to be sure you’ll be welcomed back the next time are explored in this lecture. 

The Legal Genealogist Judy G. Russell is a genealogist with a law degree. She writes, teaches, and lectures on a wide variety of genealogical topics, ranging from using court records in family history to understanding DNA testing. A Colorado native with roots deep in the American south on her mother’s side and entirely in Germany on her father’s side, she is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, the National Genealogical Society and numerous state and regional genealogical societies. She has written for the National Genealogical Society Quarterly and National Genealogical Society Magazine, among other publications. On the faculty of the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy, the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research in Alabama, and the Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh, she is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Board for Certification of Genealogists, from which she holds credentials as a Certified Genealogist℠ and Certified Genealogical Lecturer℠. 

Latest Trends in Publishing for Genealogists

What is happening in the publishing industry in general that genealogists can take advantage of? Look at where technology is heading that may impact what you decide to do today (e.g., website, blog, Facebook, Flipboard, printed book, smartphone, tablet, eReader, ePaper, and more). See how the next generation of readers consume books and media in different ways than in the past and have different expectations of what makes compelling content. Become familiar with the new tools available and formats. Learn about the importance of interactivity in creating an engaging family history. See how to add interactivity to a printed book. See it through the eyes of today’s readers. Develop a new perspective on how you publish your family history. You can create a family treasure.