This case study illustrates how four simple words in a newspaper notice and DNA evidence became the key to unlocking Great Granny’s Irish roots. The research journey began with the cryptic phrase “Toowoomba papers please copy” in an 1886 death notice. This small clue directed the research to the Hanlon family in another location hundreds of kilometres away, with DNA evidence crucial to confirm the connection back to Kilkenny, Ireland. The presentation highlights the importance of scrutinising every detail in historical documents, no matter how small, and explores techniques for following unexpected leads across disparate locations, combining traditional research with DNA analysis.

This talk gives an overview of the investigative genetic genealogy process: what it is, where it is used and the basics of how it is undertaken. Nathan briefly discusses some real-life key cases that have used IGG and then moves on to his own fictional writing, focussing on the Venator Cold Case series, which uses this methodology to catch serial killers. He explains his meticulous research process, the experts that he consults and his process of writing.

A prevalent misconception in genealogy is the belief that African Americans cannot trace their ancestry beyond the 1870 Federal Population Census. This myth, known as the “1870 Brick Wall,” suggests that records of African American ancestors, especially those who were enslaved, are virtually non-existent before this key year. This presentation will debunk this myth by exploring the wealth of resources available for tracing African American lineage before 1870. Attendees will learn about various records, strategies, and techniques that can help uncover the rich histories of African American ancestors, challenging the notion that their genealogical journey must start in 1870.

Quilts with inked or embroidered names are referred to as signature quilts or friendship quilts. These quilts were used as gifts and fundraisers. Today these quilts are being used to tell stories of families and communities. In this presentation we will explore the history of signature quilts, how to research them, and repositories that collect them. Quilts are more than a bed covering, they also can be a genealogical source.

Did you know that the Google Translate tool you rely on as a genealogist also comes in a convenient browser extension? With this extension, you can instantly translate text right on the page you’re viewing, without the hassle of switching tabs or opening a new window. It’s a seamless way to break down language barriers while staying focused on your research!

MyHeritage DNA offers a key feature missing from its main competitors: a chromosome browser. That tool lets you view the DNA segments that you share with your matches. Export your matching segment data to DNA Painter and you can determine exactly what DNA you inherited from the ancestors you share with your DNA match. MyHeritage DNA even accepts DNA results from other DNA testing companies, so you can import that information into MyHeritage DNA and get matching segment data to use with DNA Painter. In this webinar, you’ll get step-by-step instructions.

Writing about your genealogy research can be challenging. Assembling genealogical conclusions requires time, persistence, and dedication. Learn how generative AI tools can help – whether you’re writing a biography, research report, or proof argument. Tools like ChatGPT and Claude can turn research logs into reports and timelines into narrative. Providing text to the AI tools help increase accuracy and limit errors. Generative AI tools can increase your writing efficiency, but your personal style may be lost. Learn how to maintain your unique voice while increasing productivity. We will also discuss when to disclose writing assistance from AI tools and how to cite them.

From overbearing privacy laws to poor funding to archives, genealogists’ access to the historical records we need are always under threat. Learn why genealogists need to take an active role in fighting for records access, what genealogists have already been doing, and what we can do going forward!

Did you mark your wish list in the Sears Christmas catalog as a child? FamilySearch Catalog lists everything available in the FamilySearch Library. Many of these items are also available online, at FamilySearch Centers and Affiliated Libraries. Items include books, online materials, microfilm, microfiche, and publications. This session will go through the steps on how to search by location, surname, title, author, subject, or keywords, and combinations of these. Learn to find where the items are located and what type of media they are stored in. Search online in film images, and adjust their image or zoom in and out. When you find records for your research, mark each to view later in a to-do list of items which may be printed to the library when you got in person. See how the FamilySearch Wiki will help find records for an area anywhere. Just like the Christmas Catalog had something for every member of the family, this catalog has something for everyone, no matter where you are researching.