Good Genes Genealogy Services

Category: Ancestry, Black Genealogy

  • My ancestor: From Slavery to Freedom, Fortune and a Life of Stewardship

    My ancestor: From Slavery to Freedom, Fortune and a Life of Stewardship

    Isaac Harold Anderson, my ancestor
    He was a Mulatto slave who became a wealthy businessman, politician, college founder, co-founder of the CME church and much more. Isaac Harold Anderson (1835-1906)

     

    For more than ten years, I searched for an ancestor whose life’s detail perpetually eluded me. I knew that he lived in middle Georgia USA and was “famous” according to the tales of my family members.  I combed through census pages, examined geographical records of Ft. Valley, GA, and squinted at old newspaper clippings. Each clue felt like a puzzle piece, but somehow the picture never completely came together. If you’re like me, you may have chased family history, you know the mix of excitement and frustration that comes with a search like this.

    Then one day, while wandering through online resources, I stumbled across something called DBpedia. At first, the name sounded technical and far removed from genealogy. But curiosity won out, and I clicked in. To my surprise, there it was—the information I had been chasing for over a decade, neatly organized and connected in ways I hadn’t imagined.

    So what is DBpedia? In plain terms, it’s a online — Wikipedia-like styled — service that takes all the facts inside Wikipedia and arranges them in a way that curious researchers like us can easily search and connect. Instead of scrolling through long articles, the basic facts are laid out like entries in a digital family tree. Because of it linking information together, it shows connections across places, people, and time that I and others have obviously missed.

    Slave Ancestor Breakthrough!

    Drumroll please: I not only found I.H. Anderson (1835 – 1906) in a few historical newspapers, I located an abundance of proven documents. Author Alicia K. Jackson wrote a book about my ancestor — a  former slave, founder of Lane College, co-founder of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, pioneering politician, businessman, father, husband (3 times) and “more.” The “more” is significant as explained in the preview about the book, The Recovered Life of Isaac Anderson about my maternal fifth great-grandfather:

                                                           “Anderson was instrumental in helping freed people leave Georgia for the security of progressive safe havens with                                                                                              significantly large Black communities in northern Mississippi and Arkansas. Eventually under threat to his life,                                                                                                  Anderson made his own exodus to Arkansas, and then later still, to Holly Springs, Mississippi, where a vibrant                                                                                                  Black community thrived.” — The Recovered Life of Isaac Anderson | University Press of Mississippi

    Repeat Research Steps

    It was my mother’s recent comment about her aunt informing my Mom that “we have an ancestor who had something to do with the founding of Lane College” in Jackson, Tenn.  I’ve heard this claim since I formally began ancestry and genealogy research in 2009. About a decade ago, I believed it to be I.H. Anderson, yet Lane College’s references to him were brief and the Anderson name did not initially line up with my maternal family tree. Something inside of me kept the Anderson linkage alive. I discovered that he was married three times and that included his first wife, Edith, mother of Hattie Anderson Powers, who was the mother of Armentha Powell Owen, the mother of Eugene Owen, Jr., the father of my mother, Angeline Cecil Owen Wead. Whew!

    The key to unlocking the mystery was to establish that Hattie Anderson was the daughter of Edith and I.H. Anderson.

    Lesson learned

    My delay in linking Anderson to my family lineage stems from the cautious intent to prove our African Diasporan links. It is not an excuse, rather an explanation that highlights the meticulous and lengthy tasks of locating materials about our loved ones in buried treasurers. Once I confirmed that I.H. Anderson is in the family, the rest became easy. I used newspaper clippings, church records, historical books, government records, and photographs to confirm my findings.  Our family features light-skinned ancestors and living relatives. I. H. Anderson is the son of a white enslaver, William J. Anderson, and an unnamed “Negro” or mixed Negro/Native American woman. His fair skin color is therefore, totally understandable.

    More about the Amazing Ancestor Anderson

    The turbulent and victorious history of I.H. Anderson is so much more than this blog space. I commit to work on a lengthier piece about him and our family that will result in a book-length manuscript, video and audio content.

     

  • Welcome to my Sorors of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

    Welcome to my Sorors of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

    Since Fall 1977, I’ve been a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., with my initiation at Clark College (now Clark Atlanta University), Psi Chapter.  I am committed to the high ideals of Zeta Phi Beta, the only constitutionally bound sister organization of a fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.  In 1989, alongside my Soror Mother Angie Wead, and other wonderful ladies, I became a founder of a graduate extension of Zeta Phi Beta, Xi Xi Zeta Chapter, Lithonia, GA.

    I am also a proud member of the “Divine Nine” — the unique, excellent collection of Black-letter Greek organizations. What a bonus.

    Welcome to my specialized page, which is a labor of love. Enjoy the search and remember to always preserve the precious and proud stories of our families. Our ancestors appreciate our journeys.

     

    Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated was founded on January 16, 1920, at Howard University, Washington, D.C. The Klan was active during this period, and the Harlem Renaissance was acknowledged as the first important movement of Black artists and writers in the U.S. This same year the Volstead Act became effective, heralding the start of Prohibition and Tennessee delivered the crucial 36th ratification for the final adoption of the 19th amendment giving women the right to vote. The worst and longest economic recession to hit the U.S. would define the end of the decade-The Great Depression.

  • Hillside Sankofa Virtual Genealogy Workshop December 2024 v

    Namaskar!

    We are mindful of the many activities that are taking place this glorious month. As such, please check out my in-person replacement: A short video to wrap up our year in ancestral research.

    Note that there is an approximate 2-minute pause in the video (8:55 – 11:15″) and that is your opportunity to plan your next genealogy goals for 2025.

    Expect a regular stream of Zoom and other virtual educational workshops.

    Thank you for support Good Genes Genealogy Services!

  • Discover Your Roots: Genealogy Workshop Postponed – Stay Tuned for New Date!

    Questions Answers Signage
    The December 8, 2024 in-person meeting postponed

    📅 IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: Genealogy Workshop Postponed to TBA!

    Due to exciting in-person programming at Hillside International Truth Center on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024, we are postponing our highly anticipated genealogy workshop.  We assure you that a Zoom link will be provided for a virtual meeting that will bring you an even more enriching and valuable experience.

    African Diasporan ancestry research is a beautiful pursuit that allows us to uncover our roots, connect with our ancestors, and gain a better understanding of our identity and heritage. It is a journey of discovery and self-discovery, made even more meaningful when shared with others. That is why we are thrilled to invite you to our upcoming genealogy workshop, where we will delve into the fascinating world of tracing your family history.

    We anticipate an exciting 2025 where virtual workshops and other gatherings will equip you with the necessary skills and tools to research your family history. We will cover everything from basic research techniques to advanced strategies for locating and analyzing records. Whether you are a beginner or have been on the genealogy journey for some time, our workshops will cater to all levels of experience and knowledge. 🔍

    Here’s what you can expect:  Hands-on activities and exercises to help put your newfound knowledge into practice; Practical tips for conducting effective and fast genealogical research; In-depth genealogy basics; Q&A sessions with our Hillside family members and other expert speakers on the subject of our genealogy and ancestry topics; and more.

    Be sure to follow up on Facebook and YouTube.

    Thank you for a marvelous year of ancestral research and realized journeys!

  • “Unlock Your Family’s Past: Top Questions to ask your African American family members

    “Unlock Your Family’s Past: Top Questions to ask your African American family members

    Questions Answers SignageLet’s begin in the beginning

    It’s difficult to gather information about our complex histories involving African Diaspora families. Besides the scattered data that we collect from government and private records, asking questions of our relatives — especially the elderly ones — has been proven to be useful in legacy recording.

    Here are my top “ice breaker” recommended questions for family genealogists:

    • What is your best childhood memory(ies?)
    • What do you recall about your parents or grandparents?
    • What family traditions did you have growing up?
    • What do you about our family veterans, particularly those in segregated units?
    • What do you remember about church, spiritual practices, and how we kept the faith in our family?
    • Do you know any stories about how our ancestors came to this country or even the region you grew up in?
    • What do you remember about family gatherings or reunions?
    • Please share actual family heirlooms, keepsakes, and any photos with stories we may not have seen before now. 

     

  • Discovering Your Family’s Roots: Mastering the Art of Interviewing Relatives for Family Ancestry Stories

    Discovering Your Family’s Roots: Mastering the Art of Interviewing Relatives for Family Ancestry Stories

    Uncle Ernest Wilks
    Army Vet and Maternal Great Uncle Ernest Wilks (second right) and his band in Hawaii

    Gotta love the family stories!

    I’ve interviewed CEOs, community activists, a future U.S. Supreme Court justice, and lots of individuals who were skeptical of media members. It’s an art and a science to prepare for such sessions with individuals who are new acquaintances willing to share parts of their life stories to public audiences.

    Yet, no academic and OJT prepared me for asking personal questions of relatives to learn more about our family.

    “How did you and grandpa meet?” “What was it like to grow up in the Delta of Arkansas and witness the bloody riots in the early 1900s?” “Who are you named for?” “Did you really beat up a woman who knew your husband?” “Why didn’t you ever learn to drive?” “How did you celebrate Christmas when you were a child?”

    Maternal great-grandmother Edna Wilks Robinson
    Maternal great-grandmother Edna Robinson

    Those are just a small sample of questions that I posed to my various family members. Their answers helped to connect the dots for me as I sought to uncover my family’s history. Like other African American families, our stories are mostly spotty and tough to easily put together. That’s why getting as much information from your relatives is imperative to completing your legacy findings.

    The art of the interviews

    The holidays and other special days are great times to listen to the conversations among family members. That’s the first tip: listen to what is being said and not said among your family member.

    Next, build upon the unanswered questions and ask questions. You may not get the answers you are seeking, yet you will get information, great stories, and usually surprises. Be as prepared as you able to be to receive unexpected surprise information. It helps if you can capture an audio recording. Some relatives, especially the older ones, are not as adverse to taped recordings as I once believed. They are actually the best ones to interview about family stories. Remember that great interviews are complimented by photographs. Take a lot of pictures that feature faces.

    Remember to be patient and expect to complete interviews over a span of time. It could be two days or even two years to gather the information you are seeking from family members.

    Pro tips

    • Prepare Thoughtful Questions
      Try to avoid the obvious awkward questions for starters.  Prepare open-ended questions to encourage storytelling. Ask about childhood memories, family traditions, and historical events they witnessed.
    • Find a Comfortable Setting
      Family stories often flow best in a relaxed environment.
    • You have to be a Great, Active Listener
      While you may have specific topics you want to cover, allow the conversation to naturally flow. Try to avoid interrupting unless necessary.
    • How to Handle Sensitive Topics
      Be mindful of how difficult, even painful that family experiences could be for your loved one. Acknowledge their feelings, respect their boundaries, and take a break.

    Preserving cultural and emotional history

    No matter what happens as you gather family stories, remember that you are recording precious history that perhaps no one will gather. You are preserving and documenting these stories, and thereby help your future generations.

    Contact me before or after you interview your relatives. Between my lived experiences and pro tips, I am here to help @weadwriteawayandgenealogy@gmail.com.

     

     

  • “Unlocking Your Roots: Mastering Ancestry and Genealogy Searches for a Strong Sense of Belonging”

    I belong to several ancestry and genealogy research groups, chats, organizations, and regularly participate in training sessions. This aids in my development as a genealogist specializing in African Diasporan family searches.

    One of my favorite organizations is the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc., especially the metro Atlanta chapter. Here’s a sample of the great connections you are provided by AAHGS when you join the organization:

     

     

    21 JUL 2024(pictorial generated by AI)

     

    These events are provided as a courtesy to our AAHGS Metro Atlanta members but are not the responsibility of our chapter.

     

    Timelines for Genealogy, Dottie Baugh

    Mon Jul 22nd

    Presented by Charlotte County Genealogical Society
    10:30am ET

    All classes are free and open to the public. For a Zoom link, send an email to President@ccgsi.org

    For details see www.ccgsi.org

     

    The Homestead Act, with Ranger, Amber Kirkendall, Homestead National Historic Park

    Mon Jul 22nd

    Presented by Heritage Seekers Genealogy Club
    7:30pm ET

    Ranger, Amber Kirkendall, Homestead National Historic Park

    This is a Zoom virtual meeting. To get a link to attend, you must:
    – be a paid member, or
    – subscribe to our email list at https://heritageseekersar.com/subscribe/ or
    – follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/heritageseekersar.club

    Zoom link available closer to the event – See the website!

    For details see heritageseekersar.com/

     

    Pins & Needles: Adding Social Media to Your Genealogy Repertoire

    Mon Jul 22nd

    Presented by Plainfield Area Public Library
    8:00pm ET

    Many of us have used Facebook to find distant cousins and former high school friends. Join us for a fun session on using sites like Pinterest, Flickr, Instagram and more to locate, identify and share ancestors.

    This is a virtual program. Login information will be sent when you register for the program

    For details see plainfieldpubliclibrary.librarymarket.com/event/virtual-pins-needles-adding-social-media-your-genealogy-repertoire-65597

     

    Researching LGBTQ Genealogy, with Stewart Traiman

    Mon Jul 22nd

    Presented by Denver Public Library
    8:00pm ET

    Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Queer folk have always been a part of our history and family stories. Our trees’ confirmed bachelor or spinster aunt may not have been single. Perhaps they did have partners but there is no legal documentation or family acknowledgment. This class will explore census, newspapers, obituaries, military records, photographs, phone books, and archives for clues on our ancestor’s sexuality. We will also explore LGBTQ History and many individual stories giving context to the available records. Discovering our LGBTQ ancestors’ stories and inviting them back into our trees will enrich our entire family history.

    For details see www.denverlibrary.org/event/researching-lgbtq-genealogy

     

    Beginning Ancestry by Scott Jones

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by Los Angeles FamilySearch Center
    2:00pm ET

    What and where?

    For details see churchofjesuschrist.zoom.us/j/95462341725?pwd=dmxZaWNGR1hpWVlCM1lYaHBENERLdz09#successlBSaWtyS0pwSDJxdz09%23success

     

    Using the FamilySearch Catalog by Clark Jenkins

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by Los Angeles FamilySearch Center
    5:00pm ET

    Learn how to search the entire FamilySearch database using the Catalog. This will include searching indexed and unindexed records, book titles and authors, and keyword searches. Learn how to navigate through unindexed record collections to find digitized original records.

    For details see churchofjesuschrist.zoom.us/j/95462341725?pwd=dmxZaWNGR1hpWVlCM1lYaHBENERLdz09#successlBSaWtyS0pwSDJxdz09%23success

     

    What’s the Tea in Your Family Tree?

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by Charlotte Mecklenburg Library / West Boulevard Library
    6:00pm ET

    Unearth secrets, reveal truths, and explore the colorful stories hidden within your ancestral lineage.

    This is a HYBRID program, so you can attend in-person at West Boulevard Library or online via Zoom.

    *Registration Required* Registration begins the first day of the month.

    For details see cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/664e02e3e3e1ee30003fe2c7

     

    Genealogy for Beginners: Census records and obituaries

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by Cincinnati Public Library / Pleasant Ridge
    6:30pm ET

    Census records and obituaries are the most popular and easiest to find genealogical records. Learn how to search for and use these records when digging into your family history.

    This event will be in person at the Pleasant Ridge Branch and also live streamed over Zoom. The Zoom link will be shared a few hours before the program starts.

    Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.

    For details see cincinnatilibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/65d74df01e57af280037c162

     

    Finding and Using City Directories for Genealogy – Fourth Tuesday Genealogy Series

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by The Erie Society for Genealogical Research
    7:00pm ET

    Fourth Tuesday Genealogy Series: Session is repeated via Zoom at 7 p.m. For handouts and to register for the session go to: events.erielibrary.org/ and search for genealogy.

    23 Jul 2024: Finding and Using City Directories for Genealogy: Information which might be found in city and county directories. What you might be missing in these resources. Locating city directories. Hints for using city directories. Abbreviations. Other historical directories.

    For details see www.genealogyerie.org/p/Calendar/event/Finding-and-Using-City-Directories-for-Genealogy-387

     

    The Genealogist’s Google Search Methodology

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by Louisville Genealogical Society
    1:00pm ET

    Presented by Lisa Louise Cooke

    It’s a new decade, so if you think you know how to Google, think again! Technology changes rapidly and keeping our search skills updated and sharp is key to search success. Come learn the latest Google Search Methodology for Genealogy. You’ll hear about the latest and best search innovations and learn the process that will dramatically improve your genealogical search results. These skills can be used with all associated Google tools.

    Free but REGISTRATION REQUIRED at www.kylgs.org

     

    Genealogy Quick Start TV – LIVE with Andre Kearns

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by Genealogy Quick Start TV
    8:00pm ET

    Fact or Fiction: Which assumptions are you making about your family history? In “Getting Past Your Assumptions” provide a method for understanding the truth of family-lore. Then our special guest Andre Kearns will dive deeply into the assumptions we make with 1870 census in “Emancipating the Stories of Blended Families in the 1870 Census”

    JOIN Live from our YouTube Channel or Facebook Page, LIVE every other Tuesday @ 8:00 PM ET
    www.youtube.com/@GenealogyQuickStart/streams

    This is an interactive genealogy TV show, not a genealogy webinar. We invite you to chat, comment, and ask questions.

    For details see www.facebook.com/events/1011977810605274/

     

    Introduction to Genealogy

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by Plano Public Library / Haggard Library
    8:00pm ET

    Learn the basics of common genealogical research tools and techniques.

    For details see plano-cep.bc.sirsidynix.net/event/introduction-to-genealogy-2/

     

    Latest Updates to the MyHeritage Mobile App, with Gilad Katz

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by Legacy Family Tree Webinars
    2:00pm ET

    More and more, people are preferring to use their mobile devices to access their favorite software and services — and genealogists shouldn’t be left behind. MyHeritage continues to improve the genealogy-on-the-go experience from the MyHeritage mobile app, making it easier than ever to manage your family tree and conduct research from the palm of your hand. In this session, Gilad Katz, Senior Product Manager at MyHeritage, will show you the latest developments in the mobile app.

    For details see familytreewebinars.com/webinar/latest-updates-to-the-myheritage-mobile-app/

     

    Stories Behind the Stars – World War II Heroes

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by the Cobb County Genealogical Society
    7:00pm ET

    CCGS Board member Loren Plisco volunteers with Stories Behind the Stars, a nonprofit organization dedicated to researching and writing the stories of over 421,000 Americans who sacrificed their lives in World War II. The stories will reside in memorials on Fold3 and will be linked to memorials on FindAGrave. This project is supported by Ancestry, Newspapers.com, Fold3, Together We Served, and other organizations. To date, hundreds of volunteers have written approximately 40,000 stories, with the ambitious goal to complete all of the stories by the end of 2025, which marks the anniversary of the end of World War II.

    Register online here: us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0sduygrTMtE9a-Tw82s-BdPUeWY60wWyiO#/registration

    For details see cobbgagensoc.org/

     

    TOTS – Tech on Tuesdays You Can Never Have Too Many Backups — Backups, Data Preservation and Back Blaze

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by The Colorado Genealogy Society
    9:00pm ET

    For details see us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwsf–urjotH9Hp3pmcJZvhz6Vh5Yvs2rKt

     

    Working with DNA Matches: Beginning to Sort Your Matches

    Tue Jul 23rd

    Presented by The Genealogy Center at Allen County Public Library
    2:30pm ET

    In this introductory session, we will learn to work with your genetic cousin matches from an autosomal DNA test. We will learn how to determine your familial relationship to your DNA matches (beginning with known relatives) and begin to sort your matches into groups based on the connecting ancestors that you share. Presented by Sara Allen.

    For details see acpl.libnet.info/event/11055953

     

    Imaging by Clark Jenkins

    Wed Jul 24th

    Presented by Los Angeles FamilySearch Center
    5:00pm ET

    How to look up images in FamilySearch?

    For details see churchofjesuschrist.zoom.us/j/95462341725?pwd=dmxZaWNGR1hpWVlCM1lYaHBENERLdz09#successlBSaWtyS0pwSDJxdz09%23success

     

    Writing Family Stories Within FamilySearch by Holly Jones

    Wed Jul 24th

    Presented by Los Angeles FamilySearch Center
    2:00pm ET

    Writing your personal and family stories.

    For details see churchofjesuschrist.zoom.us/j/95462341725?pwd=dmxZaWNGR1hpWVlCM1lYaHBENERLdz09#successlBSaWtyS0pwSDJxdz09%23success

     

    Getting Around the Missing 1890 Census, Part 1, with Sara Cochran

    Wed Jul 24th

    Presented by Fountaindale Public Library
    12:00pm ET

    Sara Cochran, the Skeleton Whisperer, will help you strategize and gather tips for success in locating your family in other records between the 1880 and 1900 Federal censuses.

    The loss of the 1890 Federal census is a source of great frustration for American Genealogists, but all hope is not lost! Sara Cochran, the Skeleton Whisperer, will help you strategize and gather tips for success in locating your family in other records between the 1880 and 1900 Federal censuses. This is part one of a two-session series.

    This program is available in a Zoom webinar format. A link and handout will be sent a day before the event. A reminder will be sent an hour before the event.

    For details see communico.fountaindale.org/event/9545900

     

    Periodicals for Genealogy

    Wed Jul 24th

    Presented by Midwest Genealogy Center at Mid-Continent Public Library
    7:30pm ET

    Learn how to search for and use periodicals at the Midwest Genealogy Center and other libraries, as another resource in your genealogy research. This is a beginner-level class. This class will be held in person as well as virtually via Zoom simultaneously. Registration is required and closes one hour before the start of the program. Please indicate whether you will be attending in person or virtually when registering. An email address is required when registering to attend on Zoom. All start times are Central Standard Time.

    For details see www.mymcpl.org/events/98202/periodicals-genealogy-hybrid

     

    From the Grassroots Roundtable: Preserving Places and Stories in the East Tennessee Black Community

    Presented by East Tennessee History Center
    12:00pm ET

    Please join our esteemed panelists as they consider their contributions to the preservation of spaces and stories in their home communities, whether through ensuring the Black community’s history and family connections are shared and/or buildings themselves are saved and reused. They will also share their dreams of next steps and share insights on conducting community projects.

    Pre-registration is required, both for in-person or for Zoom.

    For details see www.easttnhistory.org/event/advanced-genealogy/

     

    Preserving Family Memories: Audio Recordings

    Wed Jul 24th

    Presented by Dallas Public Library
    3:00pm ET

    The sound of a loved one’s voice = irreplaceable family memories. Learn how to digitize and preserve your audio recordings stored on cassette tapes, microcassette tapes and LPs. Hear from one of Dallas Public Library’s A/V librarians on how to edit your audio, and share your precious family memories using the Heritage Lab located on the 8th floor of the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library.

    This Genealogy & History program is available both in-person at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, 8th floor AND online via Zoom.

    Please register in advance.

    For details see dallaslibrary.librarymarket.com/event/preserving-family-memories-audio-recordings-366192

     

    African American Research Workshop

    Wed Jul 24th

    Presented by Oakland Family History Library
    9:00 PM Eastern

    This is an ongoing, free, hands-on research workshop comprised of African Americans, also referred to as Black or Afro-American, or those who harmonize with Sub-Saharan Africa, with ancestry, citizenship, or residency in the United States. The workshop is an interactive exchange of research tools, methods and systems, and discussions necessary for progress at individual levels of family histories and genealogies impacted by the 16th Century removal of Africans to America as slaves.
    For a Zoom link to the virtual workshop, churchofjesuschrist.zoom.us/j/98525123399?pwd=WFptb0RWSDk5UjdHVGhtNXl3NkZadz09#success

    For additional information E-Mail: pat4gene@gmail.com
    or go to
    www.familysearch.org/en/wiki/Oakland_California_FamilySearch_Library/Learning_Center_Descriptions#African_American_Research_Workshop

     

    Preserving Family History

    Thu Jul 25th

    Presented by Lake County Public Library
    2:30pm ET

    Have you ever wondered how to take care of those old photographs, scrapbooks, and stories passed down from generation to generation? This session has got you covered. Join Jeremy Pekarek, Archivist at Indiana University Northwest, to learn more about best practices involving proper housing techniques, documentation, and digital materials.

    For details see www.lcplin.org/event/9176704

     

    25+ Free Genealogy Sites

    Thu Jul 25th

    Presented by St. Louis County Library
    7:30pm ET

    Explore how to access and use several free websites for your family history research.

    Registration opens June1, 2024. Registration required. Participants will receive Zoom information immediately after registering.

    For details see slcl.events.mylibrary.digital/event?id=96470

     

    Ancestry.com, a Premier Website, Online Class: Great tips for finding your families, and editing photos, and using Storymaker Studio

    Thu Jul 25th

    Presented by Riverton Utah FamilySearch Center
    9:00pm ET

    Presented by R. Ray

    Ancestry.com, the Premier Family History Website. Ancestry.com has partnered with FamilySearch to easily share family tree records and information. Over 60 billion records (~6 times as many as FamilySearch has) makes it easier to find your families. Over 10 billion of those records come from FamilySearch so, you will see those records too.

    To attend the online classes, you will need to register. It is recommended that you review the class handouts before attending the class by viewing them online or by printing them. Handouts available at www.familysearch.org/en/wiki/Riverton_Utah_FamilySearch_Center/Online_Classes

    Register at churchofjesuschrist.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAkd-muqDgpHdbGtkUcRX5VLxKL2IzeMAJK

    For details see www.familysearch.org/en/wiki/Riverton_Utah_FamilySearch_Center/Online_Classes

     

    Facebook Workshop for Genealogists

    Thu Jul 25th

    Presented by Mount Vernon Genealogical Society
    1:00pm ET

    Instructor: Jo Pearson

    Unlock the power of Facebook for your genealogy research! Learn how to create and manage a genealogy-focused Facebook page or group, best practices for posting and sharing, and how to use Facebook events to organize virtual meetups or collaborative research sessions.

    TO REGISTER: Please send an email with your name and phone number, the class date and title, to Amy Breedlove at albreedlove@comcast.net
    Thank you.

    Once you’ve registered, a reminder email will be sent to you a few days ahead of the class with the zoom link and any handouts, etc.

    For details see www.mvgenealogy.org/

     

    How to Use Newspapers for Genealogy

    Thu Jul 25th

    Presented by Cuyahoga County Public Library
    7:00pm ET

    Tips and tricks on using newspapers in your genealogy research.

    A meeting link will be emailed to registered participants approximately one hour prior to the start of the program. Staff will be available for help with connecting to Zoom and technical issues beginning 15 minutes prior to the program. You will need a device with audio and/or video and an internet connection to join.

    For details see attend.cuyahogalibrary.org/event/10366070

     

    The Why, Where, When, What and How of Lineage and Hereditary Societies, with Christine Cohen

    Thu Jul 25th

    Presented by Marin County Genealogical Society
    10:00pm ET

    Why should you join a lineage society? How do you join a lineage society? What activities do they perform? What member benefits are available? Are DNA test results a membership option?

    The Genealogical Society General meetings are open to the public, with no admission fee. Feel free to drop in! Bring your friends as everyone is welcome. Come early and ask your burning genealogical questions of other members before the meeting.

    The public is welcome to attend all of our virtual meetings. Contact info@maringensoc.org for more information.

    Please register in advance.

    For details see www.maringensoc.org/event-5756426

     

    Genealogy in Teaching

    Fri Jul 26th

    Presented by CALS Central Arkansas Library System
    1:00pm ET

    Learn how to use genealogy databases and other resources to teach language arts, science, and math as well as social studies.

    This is a hybrid event; the in-person class will take place in Meeting Room B at the Fletcher Library. Virtual attendees will access the class via Zoom.

    If you wish to attend virtually, you must register to receive the Zoom link to join the class.

    Please email at digital@cals.org or call 1.501.320.5724 if you have any questions.

    For details see events.cals.org/event/10666775

     

     Military Records at TSLAC

    Fri Jul 26th

    Presented by Texas State Library and Archives Commission
    9:00am ET Find out how to locate Texas military service records at TSLAC.

    The Archives and Information Services Division offers a suite of research webinar recordings on-demand throughout the year. The start date listed here is the date the webinar will be first available.

    For details see www.tsl.texas.gov/arc/workshops

     

    8 Tips for Using AI as Your Genealogy Assistant

    Fri Jul 26th

    Presented by Bay Area Genealogical Society
    8:00pm ET

    Speaker: Dana Leeds. AI can help you complete many tasks faster than you can on your own. This makes it an incredible time-saver. It can also help you get more out of the records you find. But where do you start? And what can it help you with?

    This presentation will highlight eight areas where AI can be a patient and knowledgeable assistant, supporting you in both your genealogy research and daily tasks. In your genealogy work, AI can help you summarize information, extract and visualize data, write engaging family history narratives, convert handwritten documents into searchable text, and illustrate your family story. Additionally, AI can assist you with daily tasks such as tech troubleshooting, saving you valuable time. Join us and discover the various ways AI can help you be more efficient and effective in your pursuits!

    For details see www.txbayareagen.org/?page_id=5

     

    Genealogical Research & Writing: Are You a Saint, Sinner, or Bumfuzzled Soul?, with Elizabeth Shown Mills, CG, CGL (members only)

    Fri Jul 26th

    Presented by Legacy Family Tree Webinars
    (members only) (VIRTUAL)
    2:00pm ET

    As researchers, family historians, compilers, bloggers, or writers of other ilk, genealogists face legal and ethical perils they often do not anticipate. This crash course offers practical guidance to enhance your skills and keep you safe as you explore history, reconstruct lives, and “write up” your findings. While the issues are serious—from the legal issue of copyright to the ethical issue of plagiarism—the lessons are taught with a light heart and humor.

    For details see familytreewebinars.com/webinar/genealogical-research-writing-are-you-a-saint-sinner-or-bumfuzzled-soul/

     

    Reeling ‘Em in with Cousin Bait: 10 Ways to Connect with Family, with Cheri Hudson Passey

    Sat Jul 27th

    Presented by Polk County Genealogy Speaker Series
    10:00am ET

    Want to connect with those who may have information about your family? Learn 10 strategies to help you connect and collaborate with family members, including creating “Cousin Bait.”

    This is a hybrid virtual program. The presenter will appear virtually, but guests are invited to join us at the History Center to participate in the Zoom. For Zoom details, contact the Polk County History Center at (863) 534-4386 or ShannonGraham@polk-county.net.

    For details see www.polk-county.net/events/reeling-em-in-with-cousin-bait-10-ways-to-connect-with-family-genealogy-speaker-series/

     

    Discovering Your Ancestors – Series 1 with Janet Camarata

    Sat Jul 27th

    Presented by Puget Sound Genealogical Society
    1:30pm ET

    Genealogy is an enriching and rewarding way to discover our own families through their written records, photographs and artifacts. Tracing our ancestral roots expands our understanding of history and how they lived in earlier generations. The individual pieces of the family jigsaw puzzle consists of vital records, censuses, land records, immigration, naturalization, military records, church histories, taxes, court and courthouse records, DNA and much more. The tools and techniques used by genealogists today are extensive and include the Internet, specific genealogy programs and websites, i.e. Ancestry and FamilySearch. Learn in a computer environment the resources available online and off-line to investigate the various jigsaw puzzle pieces that document your ancestors’ lives.
    This class will focus on Strategic Searching, Sources & Citations, Cemetery Research.
    This will be a hybrid class with in person at the Sylvan Way Library and on Zoom. The Zoom link will be posted on our website an our Facebook page on July 26.

    For details see www.psgsociety.org

     

    How to Read Old Handwriting, with Lisa Lisson

    Sat Jul 27th

    Presented by Capital District Genealogical Society
    1:00pm ET

    Struggling to read those old historical documents? Gain invaluable insights and practical strategies for deciphering your ancestors’ records, allowing you to uncover hidden stories and connect with your heritage in ways you never thought possible. From understanding the evolution of handwriting styles to employing innovative techniques for enhancing legibility, this talk promises to equip you with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the rich tapestry of your family’s history. Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your genealogical prowess and forge deeper connections with your roots!

    Non-members may register starting on the 16th of the month (space permitting). Non-Members must create a free CDGS account before they can register. You only need to create an account once, as you can login to that account to register for future presentations.

    For details see www.capitaldistrictgenealogicalsociety.org/

     

    FamilySearch Overview – Everything You Don’t Know But Should

    Sat Jul 27th

    Presented by San Mateo County Genealogical Society
    1:30pm ET

    FamilySearch has done a lot of improvements and changes over the past few years. Did you know you can get free consultations from them now? Do you know where to look for the latest catalog information? Have checked out the maps of what cemeteries your relatives are in? Come listen to an overview of what FamilySearch has changed lately and how you can use it to make sure you get the most out of FamilySearch. You can learn about the community groups and guided research all now available on FamilySearch. Join Pamela Brigham for this presentation on FamilySearch.

    Please register in advance

    For details see www.smcgs.org/

     

    Join the International Genealogical Community with Year-Round RootsTech, with James Tanner

    Sun Jul 28th

    Presented by BYU Library / Family History Sunday Classes
    5:30pm ET

    The BYU Family History Library presents virtual Sunday classes for anyone interested in family history! Classes are free and everyone is welcome.

    No registration required. Click the link “Join Live Class” at the URL below, where you’ll also find the upcoming class calendar, as well as their library of previously recorded virtual classes. All free!

    The Zoom link for Sunday Classes at the scheduled time is
    https://byu.zoom.us/j/97185943513?pwd=IgbedZiLURYMxnPxlkWolxQNK6iEGd.1

    For details see https://familyhistory.lib.byu.edu/learning/webinars

     

    —

    “Discovering Our Ancestors, Our History and Ourselves-TOGETHER”

     

    Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc.
    Metro- Atlanta Chapter

    www.aahgsatl.org

  • Family genealogy check up and checklist

    Family genealogy check up and checklist

    The beginning of 2023 is a great time to utilize the free genealogy resources from the National Archives. It is the family group sheet and ancestral chart.

    Photo by August de Richelieu on Pexels.com

  • The forgotten stories of “Black Magnolias” from Oakland Cemetery

    First in a series

    Jihan Hurse, guide, Atlanta, GA.’s Oakland Cemetery’s “Black Magnolias” tour

    Atlanta, GA — On a chilly Saturday winter morning, Oakland Cemetery’s “Black Magnolias” Tour Guide and Author Jihan Hurse, excitedly gives highlights of the Black women who lie among its 70,000 “residents” in the city’s historic cemetery.

    The hour allotted for the tour was not enough time for all of the stories about accomplished Black women who are buried in Oakland Cemetery. Yet, the Black Magnolias tour was a refreshing collection of insight into the lives of Black women who were quiet and major influencers in the Atlanta region, Georgia and nationwide. Along the multiple paths laden mostly with bricks from days gone by, there were periodic stops at the chosen grave sites of many women who were doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, mothers, wives, educators and skilled technicians.

    The Black Magnolias story at Oakland Center is grounded in the fortitude of laundry or washerwomen whose citywide protest resulted in violence, arrests, intimidation and ultimately, a major victory for the Black women who refused to return to work unless their financial and work life demands were met. Their well-organized strike involved some 3,000 Black laundresses and it nearly imperiled the 1881 World’s Fair in Atlanta.

    Former slaves strike for better pay and work conditions in 1881.

    While praising the domestic workers’ brave and labor market altering stance, Hurse strategically showcased other Black women whose legacies are integral to the success of the Atlanta area, Georgia and the nation. Despite the achievements that stretch beyond racial and geographical boundaries, most of the 12,000 African Americans — including approximately 1,800 slaves — are buried at Oakland in segregated sections known as the African American, Slave and Potters sections.

    There are also exceptions to the burial rules of segregating whites, Blacks and Jewish deceased persons from one another. When whites sought permissions to move the burial area initially designated for Black slaves, the graves were moved to the back of the cemetery. Some natural markers such as stones and sticks were not preserved. When that relocation was completed, some families such as the Boylstons asked for an additional set of permissions and that was to bury their “domestic worker,” Catherine Holmes, alongside their family members, according to Hurse. Elise Boylston had a special fondness for “Caty” and the young Boylston lady authored work that included her slave. By the 1960s, Blacks were not segregated to one area or two areas of the cemetery

    The grave marker for “Caty” Holmes, a “domestic worker” in the Boylston household, is left. This is a partial view of the extensive Boylston plot in the former Slave section of Oakland Cemetery.

    A dozen other Black Magnolias were pointed out by Hurse as significant based on a range of qualities such as the first Black lady buried in Oakland Cemetery, to the sisters who established the first hospital with 15 beds that was available to Black patients.

    Below is the grave site of Estella Henderson was an attorney, an author of books on race relations and was recognized by U.S. President William Howard Taft. Her sister, Dr. Blanche Beatrice Bowman Thompson, was a doctor whose practice pioneered specialty work for Black medical professionals in Georgia.

    Future blogs will highlight the historical women of Oakland Cemetery. For those interested in the many stories of the Black men and women buried in Oakland Cemetery, the virtual tour is found through this service:

    Good Genes Genealogy Services encourages readers of this blog to investigate similar historical stories in cemeteries that bear great stories such as those found at the Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta.

    The 48-acre cemetery that is also considered a city park. The Oakland Cemetery Foundation conducts several tours each year, including a handful devoted to honoring Black history and women’s history.

  • Check out this wonderful Black genealogy program

    Black Homesteaders of the South with Bernice A. Bennett

    On Saturday, February 4, 2023, 12 – 1:30 PM, the African American History and Culture Museum will host its African American History and Culture Event.

    It will be held on the Concourse, Oprah Winfrey Theater + streaming

    It’s free. It’s also recommended that you get tickets or register at www.etix.com.

    Join genealogist Bernice A. Bennett who will uncover the stories of African American families who became landowners through the Homestead Act of 1862 from her latest book Black Homesteaders of the South. Bennett’s work is a modern story of black genealogists who networked through a Facebook page to trace the footsteps of their ancestors in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana & Mississippi. Find out how these families navigated the application process through the federal government, and what this legacy means for their descendants today.
    Bernice Alexander Bennett is an award-winning author, genealogist and host of Research at the National Archives & Beyond BlogTalkRadio program. Her genealogical interests focus on Southeast Louisiana and Edgefield and Greenwood Counties, South Carolina. Bennett is an author and contributor to 2 award winning genealogy books including Our Ancestors, Our Stories and Tracing Their Steps: A Memoir. A New Orleans native, Bennett is a volunteer with the Homestead National Historical Park Service identifying descendants of Black homesteaders to share their stories.
    Black Homesteaders of the South with Bernice A. Bennett