Ancestry Home Page

Ancestry Home Page 

• Valerie Bertinelli on WDYTYA? Wednesday, @8p.m. Central Time on TLC network)
•  New Records at Ancestry
• My Shoebox

 The above list  are "items of interest" that appeared on my homepage at Ancestry.com; today.    Occasionally, I'm in such a fever to search that I kind of rush past the news and announcements section. When I do take the take to review the page, however, I pick up information that is helpful and relevant to my ancestors.

For example, it is evident that some of the genealogy community enjoy and follow the series, Who Do You Think You Are?.  So, I appreciate the reminder that Wednesday is the night I want to tune in.  How does this help me in my genealogy?  For one thing, it reminds me that documentation is the by word of family history and that even for celebrities, there are some dark corners and closets that are uncovered, as well as records that record bravery and dedication.

 Are there newly acquired record collections at Ancestry that are especially relevant to my search objectives?  Is there a new feature that will become the tool I need to discover sources and data?  The Ancestry Home Page is the place to look for that.

My Shoebox: I love that Ancestry.com has provided a "file" for things I stumble on but can't immediately relate to an ancestor. My Shoebox is where I put stuff until connect the dotes, "cold cases" , if you will.  I need, on occasion, to review that file and see if I can bridge the gap between my discoveries and my family tree.

Genealogy in Northwest Florida: Societies

• Bay County, Florida GenGate: Getting Started.  

 This is the place to tap the amazing collection of databases gathered by the genealogy community in Bay County, Florida. 
If you want to know the news and events of the local genealogical society, link to this page .http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~flbcgs/programs.html.

•  Genealogical Society of Okaloosa County

 The program for August will feature George and M. Legge, the Family History Center directors for the Fort Walton Beach Family History Center.  Open the GSOC web link for more information and to preview the web site central to the Family History Center's purpose, travel on over to the FamilySearch site.

• West Florida Genealogical Society 

  Topic: FamilySearch.org: What’s New and How to Use It Speaker: Elder Balling and Elder Blair, from the LDS Church
Presentation will include new records and features of Family Search; how to search, create a pedigree fan chart, share photos, build a family tree, chat with a live person for help, and use Puzilla to “find our cousins.” WFGS member Mrs. Lee Scott will also be available to answer any in-depth general questions.

FamilySearch.org is a free website with many genealogy records to access, and WFGS library volunteers have recently been trained to assist visitors in using its resources.

Note: this is the program originally scheduled for June, which we had to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. Members and guests are welcome to attend. Refreshments will be available at 9:45. Meeting begins at 10:00 A.M. Point of contact is Charlotte Schipman, 850-477-7166, email cschipman@mac.com

• Genealogical Society of Santa Rosa County

This society has spent many hours in accumulating acquisitions for the Milton Library in the Genealogy Department.  They also hold their monthly meetings in the library on 3rd Saturdays at 10a.m.  For more information, contact one of the board members listed on page 2 of the PDF Document Link above..
 
 

Summer Explorations

• BillionGraves Q&A  I am not yet a part of the Billion Graves project; but I love what they are doing to ease my path in locating interments.  Due to the immense learning curve standing between me and GPS photograpy skills, I have been slow to get on board!  So what is BG and what are they doing that hasn't been done before?  This website offeres Frequently-Asked-Questions in the "Q and A" format so that we can all be in the know. 

What websites and resources do you use to find or locate your ancestor's graves?  Here are some of the ones I've utilized:

1. http://Interment.net
2. Family Search Catalog:  Microfilms, Books, locality resources, etc.
3. FamilySearch Search Your Ancestor!
4. Find-A-Grave
5. USGenWeb
6. Publications of genealogical societies which are housed in libraries: Check Library of Congress and WorldCat or the library catalogs of individual repositories.
7. Periodicals (See PERSI), available at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, as well as at some other locations (Your local library may have Heritage Quest online).  Read more about Heritage Quest at Dick Eastman's Encyclopedia.
8. Newspaper Obituaries:  Wherever you can find digitized or archived newspapers and obituaries, is where you must go.  I would recommend you look at Cyndislist because this is a comprehensive category that may pop up in a number of places.

Other ideas?  

Local Programs in the Northwest Florida Genealogical Community

JULY

Genealogical Society of Okaloosa County

 

Our speaker for the July 12 GSOC meeting will be Amy Raley. Raley, who is the historian associate at the Local History and Genealogy branch of the Mobile Public Library, will speak on early immigration routes in the "old Southwest", and "The Federal Road." 

Is this the "old Federal Road of Alabama"?  Come and Find Out!

 

The Genealogical Society meets on second Saturdays of the month at the Vapariso Heritage Museum at 10 AM. Join us for dutch treat lunch after the meeting! See you there!!!!

Local Programs in Northwest Florida Genealogy Community

AUGUST

West Florida Genealogical Society     

Meeting Date: August 2, 2014
Place: West Florida Genealogy Library. 5740 N. 9th Ave, Pensacola, FL
850-494-7373
Time: 10:00 AM
Topic: FamilySearch.org: What’s New and How to Use It
Speaker: Elder Balling and Elder Blair, from the LDS Church

Presentation will include new records and features of Family Search; how to search, create a pedigree fan chart, share photos, build a family tree, chat with a live person for help, and use Puzilla to “find our cousins.” WFGS member Mrs. Lee Scott will also be available to answer any in-depth general questions.

FamilySearch.org is a free website with many genealogy records to access, and WFGS library volunteers have recently been trained to assist visitors in using its resources.

Note: this is the program originally scheduled for June, which we had to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances.

Members and guests are welcome to attend. Refreshments will be available at 9:45. Meeting begins at 10:00.

Online Tutorial

beginninggenealogy

Found this through FamilySearch.  The free course was developed at Allen County Public Library, in the Genealogy Center.  I hope that you will take a look at it, (we all need reminders, from time to time), and I hope you will pass it along to a friend, a grandchlld, a companion.

How Do I Begin To Document and File Family History? An Introduction

How Do I Begin To Document and File Family History?  An Introduction

If this is an introduction, then it is quite comprehensive.  It is a site rich in thought content.  No pretty pictures, no design candy, but chock full of theory, principle, and links.

Take some time to read (yes, I said R-E-A-D) and digest the information.  Perhaps, you could write your own thesis, using what you have learned in your genealogy experience as a basis for a discussion and sharing.

And do not get overwhelmed.  This is a lifelong pursuit you have begun.  You will move from one step to the next, progressing in your knowledge and skill, growing progressively, up the ladder of realization and accomplishment.

Flickr Search: family reunions | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Flickr Search: family reunions | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Yahoo account?  Take a look at the search box--it can be your key to the power of photography.  I chose as my search phrase, "Family Reunion"; it was wonderful to look through these smiling faces, loving families, and who knows, if you search your family names, you might find  your own family reunion photo!

MAP OF THE WEEK: Native American Nations | This Land Press

MAP OF THE WEEK: Native American Nations | This Land Press

I love this map stuff and this link showed up on my twitter page!  I'm not surprised.  After all, I follow genealogists, I follow genealogy organizations, and I search for genealogy everything.  What have you got in your twitter "box", lately?

Person Details for Lucinda Harper in household of David Harper, “United States Census, 1850″ — FamilySearch.org | GenQuestDiary

Person Details for Lucinda Harper in household of David Harper, “United States Census, 1850″ — FamilySearch.org | GenQuestDiary

The chore of the genealogist/Family Historian is to find a document, read the document, evaluate the document, and pull out information that seems to agree with other information gathered previously.  Or, perhaps this is the first historical document on which you will see your family.  In that case, you will want to investigate other sources such as other census info, death and marriage information, land records, etc.  You won't really know the value of the first piece of evidence until you have compared it with other pieces.

The reason that a census page cannot be primary source in and of itself:

• We don't know who was home the day that the enumerator came round.  It may have been an older child or an old aunt who was visiting.  Even if mom or dad was there, they may have been illiterate--as many people were back in the day--literacy took a back seat to survival!  I know that "illiteracy" doesn't equal stupidity, but if you are illiterate you may not have paid quite as much attention to exact dates, exact spellings, etc.  Comments, anyone?  Agree?  Disagree?
• The enumerator was a human being and made very human errors.  He may have had terrible penmanship or the best possible handwriting.  He may have been hot, tired, and hungry and in a hurry.  He may have been hard of hearing?  The list of maybe's is a long one.
• Family members may have become separated, married off, or deceased, so don't expect it to show the perfect record on the census.  Families were very much on the move in rural American and their lives weren't static models.

A Lot of Nonsense | Florida State University Special Collections and Archives

A Lot of Nonsense | Florida State University Special Collections and Archives

Are you in touch (via twitter, facebook, etc) with your university's digital collection?  Search at Twitter and/or Facebook for "state name" + university library + digital collection.

Genealogy's Star: Why must you prove your genealogical case?

Genealogy's Star: Why must you prove your genealogical case?

 Genealogists have only quite recently recognized the need for a systematic methodology for establishing genealogical facts. Until the early to mid-1900s, ideas concerning the need for sources and a proof standard did not exist. The current standards owe their origin to genealogists such as Donald Lines Jacobus, who began to establish a more scientific method of research based on primary source documentation.

My reaction to the article:  Bravo!  The world has become, with every passing year, a complexity of statements, opinions, articulations, and data.  Fabrication and fictionalization pose as truth in supposed publications of infallible reputation.

But, don't take it personally.  Wanting to be accurate and prove the truth of a matter, whether it's your own genealogy or from a database online has a great deal to do with our soaring admiration for our history. 

A familial affection for our ancestors as we uncover the forensics of who they were, where they were, and why they were is the product of our love for things as they are, not things as we would like them to be or as others think they are.  Most of my ancestors were farmers, but it was never that simple.  They moved, relocated, and commuted to work, in search of a job, in search of a life that would be better for them and their families. 

Maybe I pontificate too much.  All I'm really trying to say is that searching for humanity is a search for dignity and something worth memorializing.  Though I doubt that I will ever have the whole story of my ancestors, every fragment makes them more real to me, more dear to me.  Why would I not want to document them?  It's a step toward knowing who they were and a big step toward knowing who I am.

FamilySearch Adds More Than 5.4 Million Images to Collections from England, New Zealand, Philippines, Portugal, Russia, Spain, and the United States | FamilySearch.org

FamilySearch Adds More Than 5.4 Million Images to Collections from England, New Zealand, Philippines, Portugal, Russia, Spain, and the United States | FamilySearch.org

This is some great news, friends!  I strongly encourage each of you to look at the FamilySearch Indexing project...without this vital ingredient,  these images and others like these will not be searchable and easily  accessed.

You can become an indexer and  spend a few minutes each week volunteering your energies to a project that will forever afterward make the records available online, to all and FOR FREE.  It is so easy to do a little that will mean a lot.  I even know of children who are helping to index!

Especially needed are folks with foreign language skills.  Oh, and the service pool includes many, many folks who come from all backgrounds and ethnicities, from various cultures and religions.  Whoever you are, wherever you are, if you can read and work a computer, you can join the ranks!

The Genealogical Society of Okaloosa County meets Saturday, May 10, 2014, at 10 a.m. at the [Valparaiso] Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida. 

Bruce Rova, past president of the West Florida Genealogical Society, (Pensacola), will be the featured speaker.  Watch a YouTube video interview with Bruce Rova  that showcases the West Florida Society.

The topic upon which Bruce will focus on Saturday will be "Who's That Lady?".

This program will address a problem that genealogical researchers often encounter: identifying maiden surnames, parents, and other information for women in family trees when we only know a married surname.

Mr. Rova will discuss strategies and resources that can help in this process and will share practical examples of a myriad of means he has used successfully in his research: reviewing how to find direct sources and, especially, gathering and using clues from indirect sources to reveal new information and resolve such problems.

The meetings of the GSOC are open to the public and there is no charge for the regular monthly meetings.  So if you're interested in genealogy or family history, please join us.

Interest in genealogy on the rise

Interest in genealogy on the rise

The article link above correctly points to how the development of technology has changed the face of genealogy in this century.  

Genealogy Quips (Genealogy Humor)

Genealogy Quips

Genealogy's Star: The State of the States: Digitization Projects by State

Genealogy's Star: The State of the States: Digitization Projects by State

I'm always excited to hear of digitization projects, especially if it is happening in a state in which I have research interests.  So, whether it's newspapers or vital event records, I'm always happy to hear of it.  Check the article out and do an Internet search to see if your "location of interest" is in the news!

History of Alabama and dictionary of Alabama biography : Owen, Thomas McAdory, 1866-1920 : Free Download & Streaming : Internet Archive

History of Alabama and dictionary of Alabama biography : Owen, Thomas McAdory, 1866-1920 : Free Download & Streaming : Internet Archive

It's just amazing that you can search this archive from the recliner or your desk at home!  You can search and download materials and it costs nothing.  NOTHING.

Information is power.  Power at your fingertips with this web site.  In 21st
Century, genealogy is family history and all about drawing from the well of knowledge so that you can see how it was, "back then".

GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY OF OKALOOSA COUNTY

GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY OF OKALOOSA COUNTY 

supports and shouts out to Saturday in the Park.  What is that?!  Preserve Heritage!  Show Heritage!  Come visit with us in the Vale of Paradise (Valparaiso).  Saturday, 26 April, 2014. 

In an article from the Deseret News published Wednesday, April 2, 2014, this morning, there is a confirmation that while progress is being made whereby members of the LDS church will obtain free access to certain certain databases later the is year, it is reiterated that

"Free access to two of the commercial family history websites is already available to the general public at more than 4,700 FamilySearch-owned family history centers and libraries worldwide. Ancestry and FindMyPast currently offer free access to all patrons at the centers. MyHeritage will begin granting free access later this year...".

This article came to my attention when I was getting my morning dose of Dick Eastman and his online genealogical newsletter. 

While we all dream of being able to do everything genealogy-wise from the recliner in the living room, occasionally, much good can result in getting up and out the door and going down to the local Family History Center.  

I enjoy, very much, the opportunities I have to do just that, probably because the opportunities are few and far between.  I enjoy being able to use "for-profit" databases (like Fold3 and FindMyPast), for free.  I am inspired to see others at the Family History Center who are dedicated to finding their ancestors.  I am enlightened by the staff members and their combined pool of genealogy "how-to".  The staff is eager to help and the resources at FamilySearch.org are growing every day.

As in any "breaking news", take the time to read the article, ...all of it.  

Finding Family History Through Social Networks - NYTimes.com

Finding Family History Through Social Networks - NYTimes.com

Look for information on the Internet about:

Social Networking [for genealogy].  

Social Networking for Genealogists - Family Social Networks & Online Family Trees

Social Networking for Genealogists - Family Social Networks & Online Family Trees

I appreciate this article and wonder how up-to-date it is.  Nevertheless, I am a little overwhelmed in preparing for my presentation coming up on Saturday, April 12th, at the Genealogical Society and any web site that mentions Social Networking is going into my "arsenal"---wish I could think of a better word---I'm certainly not planning an attack!

Originally, I was thinking that "Social Networking for Genealogy" had more to do with Facebook, Twitter, and Piinterest; now I realize that there are many web sites that have been created for the purpose of genealogy networking, specifically.

Actually, we've had "social" networking for genealogy since the days of Bulletin Boards and "soc genealogy".  Okay, I'm totally still getting my ducks in a row, (is this a hunting reference?), and whittling down the material to 45 minutes will be a challenge!  What do you get out of social networking for genealogy?  Have you located collaborators, family members. or distant cousins?  Let me hear your stories. 

Genealogy How-To Resources

Where do I turn for Genealogy “How-To's”?

Part I

You can approach genealogy in one of several ways:

• Just Jump In!
• Start by asking your older relatives for information.
• Look under the bed for shoeboxes of photos or in attics for dusty old trunks.
• Record in a notebook or on a word processor what you find.
• Visit your local library and talk to the librarian.
• Ask A Friend
• Ask a friend if they know anything about genealogy, or...do they know someone who is into genealogy.
• Find out if there is a local Family History Center at the local LDS church. (Phone book or look online)
• Local genealogy societies often advertise their meetings in the newspaper.
• Go Online. The information highway is full of information!
• Wikipedia.com
• Google.com
• About.com
• Various other websites will lead you by the hand...there is information at the FamilySearch.org/wiki. There is help at Ancestry.com, Genealogy.com and so forth and so on.

Here are some of my favorite web sites to go, no only for genealogy news, but for genealogy guidance.

• I love genealogy “blogs”. Real people talking about stuff they know. Although even large corporations have blogs, now, you can still get educational and technical instruction at a blog. Remember the “two heads is better than one” axiom? I frequently get inspiration from a blog on new ideas to try with my research. New tools are often introduced, new resources, and new technology are discussed, as well.
• Genealogical Societies, educational institutions, newspapers online---there is literally no end to what you can find, online, to help you get started or help you break down those brick walls.

Be sure and read past blogs of mine for more information and Part 2 of this discussion will reference specific online websites.

The Ancestry Insider: RootsMapper: Another FamilySearch Family Tree Extension

The Ancestry Insider: RootsMapper: Another FamilySearch Family Tree Extension

Rootsmapper is a free web site that can connect to your Family Tree at Familysearch; it shows on a map where your ancestors were from--all this, of course, according to what you've put in the program already.  Found out about this from "The Ancestry Insider" (see link above).

Here a screenshot of my first four generations:

Fox News - Breaking News Updates | Latest News Headlines | Photos & News Videos

Fox News - Breaking News Updates | Latest News Headlines | Photos & News Videos

No, I haven't gone nuts.  Showering you with a gift about "breaking news updates" and a link for "Latest News Headlines" isn't my idea of a great genealogy find.

However, genealogy and family history are in the news all the time; have you noticed that newspapers carry stories relative to the topic at hand?  And if I subscribed to all the newsletters about genealogy, and read them thoughtfully, I wouldn't have time to teach a class.

So, I am going to tell you that, (guess what?!!), there are entities on the Internet, perhaps even the NSA (National Snoops Association), who are interested in what you're interested in.  Actually, I think that governmental agencies will have to take a back seat to business, mercantile, and shopping corporations, who are driven by their need/desire to know what you're interested in.  They want your money and they are very clever about finding ways to entice you to spend it. 

This being said, should we all drop out of the system, the connected generation, the mighty and wondrous super highway of information?  Should we encrypt our e-mails, quit clicking, and go to bed? 

"Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.”
― Marie Curie

Make yourself knowledgeable about the facts of Internet Security, trust your own instincts, and know that you are not a fool for trying to locate your ancestry on the World Wide Web.  I've spoken about Dick Eastman and his online genealogy newsletter.  He is wise and learned, not just about family history, but also about technology.  Read his newsletters.  When you have an opportunity to get hold of a computer magazine at the doctor's office (Wired is an excellent example), choose to read it instead of other more familiar magazines and become more savvy about computers, web sites, and security.  

Follow bloggers in the genealogy community who also know something about how to search safely without worrying about  "Big Brother"; you don't have to spend a lot of time worrying about this or even becoming educated.  It's something we need to be aware of and be moderately cautious about, but take a lesson from those who mine the Internet for nefarious reasons: Teach yourself or gain knowledge from others on how to mine the Internet for Family History.  That will be one of the things we want to discuss on Friday at the last class at the Center for LIfelong Learning--for this session--and for the class I teach, Beyond Basic Genealogy.

War of 1812 Pension Application Files - Fold3

War of 1812 Pension Application Files - Fold3

FamilySearch just donated $250 K to this project; these files are some of the most requested in our country.  As the files are digitized, they will appear on this site.

Google Redesigns News Archive, Makes Searching Through Newspapers Easy

Google Redesigns News Archive, Makes Searching Through Newspapers Easy

A tip that just might help genealogists is worth looking into.  [Recommended by "Susan"  aka "Sunny" Taylor-Colby at LinkedIn Group, Genealogical and Historical Research].  Thank you, Sunny and thank you Google!

Baldwin County Genealogical Society getting started guide

Baldwin County Genealogical Society getting started guide

I like short lines at the grocery store (and other places) and I like simple straightforward instructions when learning something new.

That is why I needed to post this "Getting Started" Guide.  It is simple and sweet, straightforward and SHORT!

My third great grandfather, Samuel William Settles | GenQuestDiary

My third great grandfather, Samuel William Settles | GenQuestDiary

Here's another one of my blogs; sometimes I use a blog to try and work things out on paper; rewriting your research as a narrative gives you a great setting for doing just that.  Of course, some software programs will do that for you, but you usually can save that as a document and edit it.

Ancestry.com will also "write your story for you", in the sense that they take all of the information you have put in, including facts generated by the documentation you've added in the process of utilizing the web site.

But, I promise you, whichever method you use to accomplish this, telling a story about your ancestor isn't just a tool for reviewing the research you've done, it's the end result of what we want to accomplish.  All the charts and research and relationships have to come together on a stage, on the stage of life.  I can look now at my blog about Samuel W. Settles and see, already, that I am not there, yet.  It lacks a lot!  So, back to the drawing board, folks.  I'm hoping I can pull out a rabbit or two and get a better grip on who great great great grandpa was.

West Florida Genealogical Society March Meeting

West Florida Genealogical Society

"Understanding Your Y-DNA" will be presented by Bert Outlaw, President of the West Florida [Pensacola] Society.  The program will cover:

• Short Tandem Repeats
• Most Recent Common Ancestor
• Y-markers
• What is a match?
• Time to Most Recent Common Ancestor
• Using Ancestry.com and/or FamilyTreeDna.com and comparing results from different companies.

 Regular Meetings are open to the public and free of charge.  Meetings are held on the first Saturday of the month (except July) at 10a.m. at the West Florida Genealogy Library, 5740 N. 9th Ave., Pensacola, Florida.

RootsWeb's WorldConnect Project: RootsWeb's WorldConnect Project Global Search

RootsWeb's WorldConnect Project: RootsWeb's WorldConnect Project Global Search

Look for your surname here.

Old Ships A

Old Ships A

Guess which of these ships is the one that my mother's uncle served on in the War (World War II)?!  Because I was able to access a document at FamilySearch that gave the ship's name and had my relative as serving on that ship, my daughter was able to locate this site, which indeed does have the ship's image.

Census Online - Okaloosa Co., Florida Census Records - 7 Links

Census Online - Okaloosa Co., Florida Census Records - 7 Links

I found the information for my ancestor in the 1935 Florida State Census at FamilySearch, then clicked on "About this Collection" in the box where the image should have been.  

That took me to the FamilySearch Wiki, then at the bottom of that article was "related websites"--okay, it wasn't all the way to the bottom of the page.  It actually followed the "Known Issues with this Collection"  I clicked on the link and voila!  Up popped the Census Online page.  Cool, huh?

Actually, the link didn't provide the images for the 1935 Census for Okaloosa County; I went back to FamilySearch Wiki and accessed a link close to the top of the article on the topic. The link was right under the little inset box with the FamilySearch Logo; it said "Access the Records" and then there is a little link, 1935 Florida State Census.  This leads to a form at FamilySearch's "Search the 1935 Florida State Census", where you can search for anyone and everyone that should be in that census.  However, I was looking for an image of the actual page.  Unfortunately, or fortunately with limitations, I found---again at the bottom of that page, the information I was seeking:

View Images in this Collection Browse through 36,019 image

Source Information

"Florida, State Census, 1935." Index and images. FamilySearch. https://familysearch.org : accessed 2014.

Call it luck or serendipity, when someone stumbles across a genealogical treasure, he is at the right place at the right time!

Fred made a trip to the local Family History Center.  Through the special FamilySearch Portal, which offers access to a number of premium resources, he was able to bring up an "old" genealogy magazine which is now out of print.  The Genealogical Helper was an essential tool in the years before the development of the Internet, a place to post queries and sometimes, find other family members or potential collaborators.

In this resource, Fred found a reference to a a surname that was in his family files, a line which had become a "brick wall" in his research.  Amazingly, the person who posted the "ad" was still living, as Fred discovered via the Internet.  He has written this individual at the same address that he posted in the Genealogical Helper and will let me know if or when he gets a response.  There is a good chance that the man is his second cousin!

And now, Fred, for you, the lyrics of a song from the Sound of Music; I know it's a kind of love song, but I just feel like you must have been living good to receive this opportunity to link to your kinfolk.  At the very least, you had a genealogy angel watching over you!  It could also be argued that, occasionally, when you reach out for help, your investment of time and effort is rewarded in a big way!

Maria:
Perhaps I had a wicked childhood
Perhaps I had a miserable youth
But somewhere in my wicked, miserable past
There must have been a moment of truth

For here you are, standing there, loving me
Whether or not you should
So somewhere in my youth or childhood
I must have done something good

Nothing comes from nothing
Nothing ever could
So somewhere in my youth or childhood
I must have done something good

Captain:
For here you are, standing there, loving me
Whether or not you should

Maria:
So somewhere in my youth or childhood
I must have done something good

Maria and the Captain:
Nothing comes from nothing
Nothing ever could

Maria:
So somewhere in my youth
Captain:
Or childhood
Maria:
I must have done something . . .
Maria and the Captain:
Something good

Read more: The Sound Of Music - Something Good (Maria And The Captain) Lyrics | MetroLyrics

Use case studies to become a better family history and genealogy researcher - Springfield genealogy | Examiner.com

Use case studies to become a better family history and genealogy researcher - Springfield genealogy | Examiner.com

How can using case studies help you to become a better family historian and genealogist?  Class activity and discussion will center on this topic on Friday, the 21st.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Family Tree - A Genealogy Case Study

Laura Ingalls Wilder Family Tree - A Genealogy Case Study

There are many case studies available that take a particular person and show you how to step-by-step research their genealogy, using a variety of methods.  See how this plays out with Laura Ingalls Wilder and the people in her life (she is a real historical person, but her life didn't necessarily follow the character in the book all the time).

Start with what you know or can find out online at wikipedia, for example.  Then using this information, go out and find some kind of evidence for the facts.

There are case studies that have been done the "wrong way" as well as the "right way"; what kind of story can you reconstruct about your ancestros, using family tradition, the census, the clues?

John Philip Colletta: Genealogist

John Philip Colletta: Genealogist

He wrote "They Came in Ships" .  If he'd never done anything else, that would put him in my heart!  I've heard him speak and if you ever have the opportunity to do that, you'll love him just like I do!

 

Check out his website!  

Ethan Stiefel Makes a New Zealand Ballet Troupe His Own - NYTimes.com

Ethan Stiefel Makes a New Zealand Ballet Troupe His Own - NYTimes.com  

Who, in your family, sacrificed comfort and close proximity to family members, for a higher calling?  How generous Mr. Stiefel is to share his vision with the NZ Ballet Troupe!  I'll just bet he has accumulated a lot of sky miles, going back and forth to the U.S. of A.

I think of our military serving, sometimes, thousands of miles from home.  Not only is it their sacrifice that must be noted, but those of their families, as well!

Back to the Ballet:  Maybe there is little about the art of dancing on your toes to compare with what the men and women in uniform do, but I do believe that there are occasions when the easy choice is not always the right or best choice.  I've found that the dreams that you pay for with sacrifice are dreams that bless your family and posterity and perhaps the fight for world peace.

My son lives in New Zealand.  He chose to be there where he could make a living in the field in which he received formal training.  He chose New Zealand, also, because he liked it.  Do we miss him and wish he was closer to "home"?  All the time.  However, he is broadening his horizons in several areas, starting a new family, and making a contribution. 

Our ancestors didn't stay, (some of them), in the same place all their lives.  There was always that one that chose a different life, a less traveled path.   Hopefully, they enriched their lives, the lives of their family, and the lives of those around them.  Hopefully, we can document the footprints of their "beyond the blue horizon" walk and bring them back, at least on paper, to back to the memories of those who stayed behind, or rather, to their descendants.

Kaylee, born a year ago in Auckland, New Zealand.  My son, living and working there, married a lovely girl from the Republic of China, and voila!  I am the grandmother of a sweet new branch on our tree.

A Grave Interest: Cemetery Statues of Hope

A Grave Interest: Cemetery Statues of Hope

Learning more about graves and cemeteries extends our understanding of the culture of the past.

Scientists find 800,000-year-old footprints in England | Fox News

Scientists find 800,000-year-old footprints in England | Fox News

If you are a genealogist and get back this far, I'll give you this blog!

Sunset Bayou Cemetery records, Eglin Field, Okaloosa County, Florida (Microform, 1956) [WorldCat.org]

Sunset Bayou Cemetery records, Eglin Field, Okaloosa County, Florida (Microform, 1956) [WorldCat.org]

We learned in our class at the Center for Lifelong Learning, "Beyond Basic Genealogy", how to utilize WorldCat for locating genealogically interesting records.

A Work in Progress

What is a "Blog"?  One of the things it isn't: It isn't static.  In fact, you might consider it as a body of work that is in progress. 

EOGN (Eastman Online Genealogy Newsletter) has several facets to it.  One such facet is an encyclopedia of genealogical terms and information.  I love that this particular addition to the Encyclopedia is information about a Texas genealogical society.  So, have you explored this resource to find a society that is in the area where you're researching?

If you're wondering how Dick Eastman can accumulate so much information for his blog, it's really no secret that he accepts submissions for the Encyclopeida of Genealogy.  Has your historical or genealogical society submitted their information?

Follow the Global RootsTech Conference Online

Ten thousand people will be in Salt Lake City, Utah, this week, for the annual RootsTECH Conference.

Would you like to join them?  Well, in a sense, you can!  Several sessions will be shared online, and you're invited to attend.  Follow the conference online, at no cost or inconvenience.

Look at the list of topics and tell me which ones you don't want to miss!

Megan Smolenyak: What Race Is Bruno Mars?

Megan Smolenyak: What Race Is Bruno Mars?

When talking about race isn't rascist: When ethnicity and heritage and race is indicative of family history.

Rescuing and Digitally Preserving the Cultural Heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains | The Signal: Digital Preservation

Rescuing and Digitally Preserving the Cultural Heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains | The Signal: Digital Preservation

This Library of Congress Post reminds us that each and everyone of us can preserve our own family's cultural heritage.  Learn the art of scanning photos, heirlooms and practice "journaled" scrapbooking.  Write your memoirs and encourage your family to do likewise.

In a day when what others do seems to be more important (celebrity watching, poring over the latest "Pins" at Pinterest, etc., let us not to forget that each of us has something unique to share.  But to share it we have to create our own personal history, first.  Maybe not a comprehensive project, but steadily in a family newsletter or whatever.

Imagine a World Without Cyndi's List, FindAGrave & NEHGS » Mocavo Blog - News, Announcements & More from the World's Largest Free Genealogy Search Engine

Imagine a World Without Cyndi's List, FindAGrave & NEHGS » Mocavo Blog - News, Announcements & More from the World's Largest Free Genealogy Search Engine

Please!  Read this article and the CNN article as well.  Rise up genealogists and other interested people.

Good Idea: Listening to Genealogy and History Podcasts

Here's a good idea from another Genealogy Blog.

I used to listen to genealogy and family history podcasts; I don't have a long commute to anywhere, but perhaps there are quiet places I could go and eat lunch and listen.  I am so glad that this blogger gave me a gentle reminder.

February News and Events in Northwest Florida and Thereabouts

• Genealogical Society of Okaloosa County:
  

Come hear about "Murder, Mayhem and Many Mrs.'s" and learn what can be accomplished with online resources in family history research.
Using genealogy, history and online resources, Elizabeth Crowe will paint a lively picture of Colonel Guy Wyman, the founder of Navarre, at the Genealogy Society of Okaloosa County meeting, 10 a.m. February 8 at the Northwest Florida Heritage Museum in Valparaiso. 
There’s never a dull moment in the story of Wyman and his family:It’s a story of murder, mayhem, madness and four wives.  The man was about the same age as Albert Einstein and Pancho Villa; he served in Pershing's calvary unit; and lived to see the space age!

Libbi Crowe, a Navarre resident, is the author of Genealogy Online, and is now writing the 10th edition. Crowe’s father really was a rocket scientist and she has been involved with computers since the early days. Her family got involved in genealogy after discovering an old Bible with family records going back to 1812.

• Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida

Victorian Valentine's Day Tea,
Saturday, February 15th, 2:00-3:30p.m.;
Celebrate Valentine's Day in a unique and fun way this year. 
 Men, women and children will enjoy a variety of teas and light refreshments while learning fun Valentine's Day facts, Victorian traditions and tea etiquette.
Cost:  $15 or $12 for Museum Members
Space is limited!  Reservations are required.
Call:  (850) 678-2615    

Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida
115 Westview Ave., Valparaiso, FL  32580

• West Florida Genealogical Society:

Saturday, February 1, 2014
Place: West Florida Genealogy Library. 5740 N. 9th Ave, Pensacola, FL
850-494-7373
Time: 10:00 AM
Speaker: Jerry Merritt
Topic: Let’s Find Your Roots!

Saturday, February 1, 2014 is the West Florida Genealogical Society’s Annual African-American Help Day. Jerry Merritt’s program will show techniques for beginning as well as experienced researchers, with an emphasis on locating hard-to-find information about African-American genealogy.

Mr. Merritt has been a popular presenter with WFGS members. His programs provide practical and easily understood methods for all genealogists.

Following the program, the West Florida Genealogy Library will be open and volunteers will provide research assistance using library computers and other resources. Since computer access is limited, attendees are encouraged to reserve a space by calling 478-6168. Personal laptops and tablets may be used; no reservation is required for them.

Basic Forms - Family Tree Magazine

Basic Forms - Family Tree Magazine

Do these people want you to subscribe to their magazine?  You bet.  And it's a great subscription to get.  What you might not think about it that even some subscription web sites (like Ancestry.com, etc.) have free stuff.  Here, at Family Tree Magazine, you can print out free charts.

To find other sites where you can print out charts or learn what forms might be helpful, check Cyndi's List  or the FamilySearch Wiki.  

Famous Family Trees - Celebrity Trees & Famous Folk

Famous Family Trees - Celebrity Trees; Famous Folk

Advantages of being related to a celebrity or famous person:

• Their genealogy has already been researched.
• They might have the financial resources to travel to the homeland (and send you pictures)!
• It might get your children finally interested in genealogy.

If your relative has been a United States President, he may have his own library.  Can you think of other reasons you might relish the thought of being kin to a famous person?

The Ancestry Insider seeks to clear up confusion...

The Ancestry Insider 

This is a blog that I read frequently for a better understanding of two primary genealogy websites that I depend on: Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org.

I gather from this that some folks are concerned about alliances that have occurred, several very recently between these two organizations.  I think that the message I'm getting from the blog is that this:

• Good things happen when the big guys partner with each other on preservation projects, especially digitization of records.  More records accessible to more people is good, right?
• FamilySearch doesn't show any sign of closing free access of the historical records featured on the site.  Is that assumption on my part correct?
• If I could afford it, I would take advantage of the best that each genealogy website has to offer; since I do have budget, I continue to search for record sites that offer free or low cost access.  I use FamilySearch both at home and at the Family History Center, so that I can utilize the premium web sites that are offered at that location.  I depend greatly on Ancestry.com's United States collection (also available at the Family History Censter) and occasionally, I activate my "at home" subscription to Ancestry, also.
• I have more than enough to do with the sources available just between those two sites and hope for state and local governments to continue to try and make their collections more available through digitization projects, on the Internet,

What's Happening in NWFL and thereabouts...Updated

Happy New Year!

 Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida: Did you know that the museum is a member of Panhandle Historic Preservation Alliance?  
Check out the historic alliances in Okaloosa County, and/or other Panhandle counties.  Road trip, anyone?  In addition, the calendar of activities and events for the Alliance is posted at THIS PAGE.

The Heritage Museum's Valparaiso archives are available to research by appointment.   And one last word about this amazing institution: it is the building where the Genealogical Society of Okaloosa County gathers the second Saturday of every month!

Want to know what is happeninng in the rest of Florida?  Check out the Florida State Genealogical Society site; I'm excited because their annual conference will be held in Gainesville, FL, this year! 
The three-day conference will be held at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center in Gainesville, Florida on 28 - 30 March 2014.

I can't contain my excitement about another event that is just a little bit further afield than Gainesville:    The NGS 2014 Family History Conference will be held at the Greater Richmond Convention Center in Richmond, Virginia. Mark your calendars for 7–10 May 2014.

The Salt Palace Convention Center

Feb. 6-8th, 2014:  If you really want to get out of Dodge (no one gets this phrase, anymore, unless they are "older"), there is the RootsTech event in Salt Lake City.  I know at least two people from our local area who are attending this year--I'm impressed!  A serious 21st Century family historian aspires to events like this one.  Many of the lectures, presentations, etc.  will be available to the general public at some point.   

West Florida Genealogical Society January Program:  This will happen on January 4, 2014!  The program will feature Charlene Grafton; her topic is "What's In Your Genes?"--"Human Disease Traits.

Charlene is a survivor of Stevens Johnson Syndrome caused by a severe reaction to Septra DS in 2009; she is also the author of What's In Your Genes: Human Threads Linking Genetics and Genealogy.  She is a participant in the Personal Genome Project with Dr. George Church at Harvard. 

Bay County Genealogical Society sponsors Dick Eastman at their Spring Seminar!  This will be an event you won't want to miss.  Richard "Dick" Eastman is an internationally known lecturer and author of Eastman's Online Genealogy Newsletter.  Did you know that the BCGS received an award in 2012 recognizing their efforts at preservation of local records?  It's a well deserved award, too! (March 22nd, 2014).

The Genealogical Society of Okaloosa County January Program: The January 11, 2014 meeting will feature a presentation by Hank Klein entitled Publishing and Enjoying Your Genealogy Work. Mr. Klein has completed three books on his and his wife's ancestors, and is working on the fourth. Several of his articles have been published in the GSOC Newsletter and his interesting presentations to the Society are highly regarded.

January 10th, 2014 Registration Date for Center for Lifelong Learning, 
Fort Walton Beach: I have LINKED TO the registration schedule here for you, so that you can mark your calendars, now, for the Winter/Spring Session which begins shortly.  You will need to look, also, at the Course Listings of all the classes that are offered, this session.  There are three genealogy related classes and other classes that might be of interest to a family historian, heritage lover, or anyone!  My friends, Hilma and Tom teach the ABC's of Genealogy; my friend, Marc teaches the FamilySearch Family Tree, and I will do Beyond Basic Genealogy. *

*More about Beyond Basic Genealogy in my next blog!

Gloria Ex Amore Patriae

Gloria Ex Amore Patriae

Do you have Danish royalty in your ancestry?  What type of traditional clothing/costumes did your fore fathers and mothers wear?

In Virginia, protests arise as a forlorn cemetery is dug up to make way for high school football - The Washington Post

In Virginia, protests arise as a forlorn cemetery is dug up to make way for high school football - The Washington Post

I've heard that football is King in the South; is this story an example of that?  Dick Eastman's Blog caught my interest this morning and so I went on to read the original story.  Why was my interest piqued?

Not long ago,  I uncovered in my ancestral search, many surnames that go back to Virginia roots.  I had thought that all the graves in all the cemteries were mostly mapped, located, and identified.  I think that I don't think; I'm living in a type of genealogy Disney World, in the magic kingdom, but I don't have to stay there.

Read, people, read.  Learn, discover, explores, and question.  We have (I have) to learn to use my 'noggin; in family history, in life!

Site Map for FamilySearch — FamilySearch.org

Site Map for FamilySearch — FamilySearch.org

Bravo, Ancestry Insider, for keeping me in the know!

Finally, at the bottom of every page (in tiny print, but nevertheless "there"), a way to find what you need and what you want at FamilySearch, in terms of navigating the site.  I had previously been using Google Search and been very happy with the results from there in getting to where I wanted to go in FamilySearch!  Is the site map complete?  Does it have everything in it you need to know?  I suggest saying "thank you", "good job", and then if you have suggestions, use the FeedBack "knob" or otherwise contact FamilySearch!

Heredis 2014 for Windows | Heredis

Heredis 2014 for Windows | Heredis

I can't recommend this new software for genealogy, primarily because I just learned of it, today.  However, there is a trial version and therefore, you and I both can look it over and decide if it's something we could make use of.

I am happy with my current software program (RootsMagic) and I know a lot of folks use FamilyTree Maker.  But even a simple, dated program like Personal Ancestral File* has options and gadgets that I never took the time to learn.  Heredis 2014 looks as though it was created to complement the online genealogist in a big way.  

Time doesn't allow for a full discussion today of all the various programs/software that are available as tools for the family historian, but I'm looking forward to the future when I can add some of those discussions.

*Read this about Personal Ancestral File being discontinued.  As long as you don't need product updates or offical support, you can continue to use PAF on your computer.  It is a great basic program without a lot of bells and whistles.  For people who want bells and whistles, Internet interaction with their software, look elsewhere.  Or for those wanting to access the FamilySearch Family Tree, RootsMagic is the way to go, (my opinion).  Now, according to Dick Eastman, PAF is no longer available for download from FamilySearch, but I noticed on a Google Search I did that there are a couple of places you can download the program.  As always, practice caution when downloading from an unknown source. 

Happiness Thanksgiving

What makes you happy? 

I was writing down what I was thankful for and it occurred to me that some of the things that I am grateful for are not what you'd think. 

For many years, I was glad to be the one working in the kitchen, preparing the turkey and dressing with all the trimmings.  It made me feel close to my mother and I have to admit that I was a little proud to have learned the skills that allowed me to feed my family good food.  I didn't feel stuck; when and if the kids started to drop in, I knew they'd come in and help out one way or the other.  But still, it was work; it took a special effort.  Sometimes, I find that work is therapeutic for what ails 'ya.

I don't have the large house these days; most of my children live elsewhere--as in another hemisphere.  I spend a lot of time online, playing word games and doing genealogy.  This is my second Thanksgiving without my husband.  The turkey is smaller and I don't know if I will have all the trimmings.  But I know one thing: I couldn't cook in my small kitchen until the floor was clean. 

So, I left my recliner and swept and mopped as well as I could with a bad back.  Afterwards, I felt happy.  I was happy that I could do something to help myself and if it was done somewhat imperfectly, it gives me something to work on, tomorrow.

Genealogy Charts

Genealogy Charts

Misbach is a favorite source of mine for Charts. Why, in this digital age do I even care about Charts and Forms?

• I like to use them as worksheets.
• If my software program doesn't provide blank forms or a particular form I'm looking for, then I have options with downloads and printables online.
• They make nice gifts for members of our family at Christmas and Birthdays or for kinfolks who aren't computer literate, yet.

Someone asked me recently about a bowtie chart.  At this site, I finally got the clearest understanding of what a Bowtie Chart is! 

Bowtie Chart 

This is very similar to the Fan chart, but each side is spread out for visual effect. It clearly separates maternal and paternal ancestral lines. There are fields that allow you to link from one chart to another. Size is 8.5" x 11".

It is November, and I 
am thankful for
being able to learn
new stuff!

Genealogy's Star: Update on Who Owns the Genealogy Companies

Genealogy's Star: Update on Who Owns the Genealogy Companies

I think this article interesting, but does it really matter who owns what?  I suppose it is interesting and even justifiable if you have a deeply embedded business sense when it comes to corporations.  What does matter is intent, content, and reliability. 

I have other blogs...

Want to chill in an easy chair and explore some of the different types of blogs that I have created?  Sure you do!

Beehive Buzz is an all-purpose, any topic, kind of web site, a place to go when I just feel the urge to vent or share.

Gathering the Givens: I try to post at this blog, anything and everything I come across for my Grandpa Givens' ancestry.  We are planning a reunion for 2014 and since it's been ten years since the last one, I'm looking forward to touching bases with everyone.

Ancestry of Wiley Benjamin Hill, Jr. is devoted to my adoptive father's line; I know the most about this family, I think as my dad mentored my entry into the genealogy world when he turned fifty years old or so-----that's when he became interested in following the footsteps of his mom and his sister, Aunt Bea, who had already gathered lots of relative info.  [Pun intended]!

I also have a WordPress blog, "GenQuest Diary", where I can post genealogy journeys and discoveries.  Since WordPress is different than "Blogger", a Google generated brand, it's interesting to play around with it and stretch my brain by trying different things.

I encourage beginning genealogists to create family newsletters with the help of tools like online blogs.  Your kin can keep up with your research results and share their present day family history in the making.  For more information about creating a blog, I recommend this comprehensive article at FamilySearch.

Steve Robinson - Ancestry Author: Featured in Family Tree magazine

Steve Robinson - Ancestry Author: Featured in Family Tree magazine

I've read these books and was engaged and entertained.  Maybe you would like to try one--the protagonist is, of course, a genealogist!  

Advice on How to Research Family History, Part 1 - NYTimes.com

Advice on How to Research Family History, Part 1 - NYTimes.com

Questions and Answers: Read it now.  A commonsensical approach to ancestor hunting by a highly respected historical writer and genealogy researcher (see column at Eastman's Blog), Elizabeth Shown Mills makes you feel like you can afford to take your time and do this thing right.  In fact, her answers inspire bravery and confidence.  It's simply a matter of applying tried and true principles.

GeneaWebinars

GeneaWebinars

Ever wondered where to find good webinars for family history?  This site was recommended to me and now, I'm able to check the calendar for webinars scheduled when I'm available!

If you're clueless (everyone is at some point), check the nav bar for "How it Works".  Be sure to check out the "Blog Archive" to the left of the main article, too.    

Free GenealogyBank Ebook Download - Family Tree Magazine

Free GenealogyBank Ebook Download - Family Tree Magazine

Found this offer on Facebook this morning!

How Other Countries Arrange Name Order Video

How Other Countries Arrange Name Order Video

This little video from about.com gives a little insight into how names are arranged in other countries.  I love the genealogist's use of the whiteboard in demonstrating what he is talking about.  

Even if you don't want to subscribe right now to Ancestry.com, or you've been there, done that and want to try something else, certain databases at Ancestry are available for free any time all the time.

Not least of the free benefits at Ancestry is the opportunity you have to work on your family tree--or get started with a family tree.  You can add photos and stories, correct or make additions, etc.  Check this page out and sign up for the "Getting Started with Ancestry" Guide--It's free!

Genealogy Roots Blog: Online Indexes for Cemeteries, Obituaries and Death Records - Latest Additions

Genealogy Roots Blog: Online Indexes for Cemeteries, Obituaries and Death Records - Latest Additions

Lesson: Don't become so infatuated with the gigantic database sites that you forget to check out the latest updates to Online Indexes.  Joe Beine is adept at providing this information.  It's a Treat for Genealogists at Halloween!

List of Counties | TNGenWeb Project, Inc.

List of Counties | TNGenWeb Project, Inc.

I haven't discussed the USGenWeb web site this session at CLL, but there are some excellent resources, there.  Because each and state county varies as to who submits what and which volunteer "sponsors" or manages the site, you get a varying amount and quality of information.  This particular feature at USGenWeb is an excellent source for county information in Tennessee.