Lecture Topics

Mapping Your Ancestor's Footsteps
Have you ever wanted to walk a mile or ten in your ancestor’s footsteps? Atlases, maps and gazetteers are useful to the family historian because they help us visualize the places our ancestors lived. By having a visual aid of those places, it is easier to see how they moved from place to place, where they might have travelled to gain employment or find a spouse. An overview of different types of maps will be discussed. Techniques for incorporating maps into your family history will be shared.

Points of Entry: Border Crossing Records, Immigration and Ship Passenger Lists
You know your ancestors came to North America from the Old Country but you can't find any records. Learn strategies for searching the available immigration, border crossing and passenger list web sites on the internet.

21st Century Genealogy - How to Use Social Media in Your Family History Research
One of the most important things you can do to further your family history research is to network. Learn how to use social media such as blogs, Facebook®, Twitter® and collaborative family trees in getting the word out about your family history project and connecting with others.

Loyalist or Patriot - Whose Side Was He On?
Discover the records which will help you determine if your ancestor was a Patriot or a Loyalist during the American Revolutionary War. Information about The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (NSSAR), The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) and the United Empire Loyalists’ Association of Canada (UELAC) will be discussed.

Digging Your Canadian Roots
Learn the techniques and tips for  successfully researching your Canadian roots. An overview of the best Canadian genealogical resource web sites, including Library and Archives Canada, will be discussed.

How to Get Started Researching US & Canadian Census Records
This presentation will focus on US & Canadian census records available on the Internet. Participants will learn which pay-for sites offer the best value for their money, as well as which free sites are available. Strategies in navigating census name indexes will be taught as well.

How to Make the Most of Canadian Census Records
Through an in-depth examination of Canadian census records, 1842 - 1911, learn how to get the most out of these records in order to gain a better understanding of your Canadian ancestors.

How To Use Online English & Welsh Census Indexes
The purpose of the census search is to find the person you want and add information about them to your family history. Learn what information can be gained from these records, and what pitfalls to watch for. Strategies for locating the records on the Internet, navigating census indices, and recording methodology will be shared.