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 The presentation highlights the importance of scrutinising every detail in historical documents, no matter how small, and explores techniques for following unexpected leads across disparate locations, combining traditional research with DNA analysis.
In this enlightening genealogy webinar, “Finding Great-Granny’s Family: Four Words and DNA,” Cathie Sherwood delivers an engaging case study that showcases the power of persistence, pattern recognition, and DNA analysis in family history research. With over 40 years of experience tracing Irish, English, and Scottish roots, Sherwood walks participants through her investigation into the mysterious origins of her great-grandmother, Annie Hanlon. What begins as a seemingly insignificant four-word phrase in an 1886 death notice evolves into a richly detailed exploration combining traditional records and genetic genealogy to build a compelling, evidence-based family narrative. This webinar is especially relevant for genealogists grappling with Irish ancestry, missing documentation, or long-standing research obstacles.
Key Takeaways:
Ready to uncover your own elusive ancestors?
Watch the full webinar to follow Sherwood’s thoughtful, step-by-step approach. Her clear explanations of tools and methods offer valuable insights applicable to a wide range of genealogical challenges—especially those involving Irish heritage or missing parental data. Whether you’re new to DNA analysis or seeking advanced techniques to solve a brick wall, this case study offers practical inspiration and strategic guidance.
Don’t forget to explore the full syllabus accompanying this session. It includes additional research tips, record examples, and resource links to help deepen your own investigations. The webinar and supporting materials are available through the Legacy Family Tree Webinars membership library, where thousands of expert-led classes await. Dive in, and take your family history further—one clue at a time.
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Syllabus
Great presentation and case study, very clear and easy to follow. I loved that it followed the actual research process, rather than presenting the finished research as you would get in a report.
I also loved that the discoveries were based on paying attention to such a small detail and working the FAN club.
This was a great help to me since I am trying to find elusive people in relation to my paternal great grandmother. I am also a Hanlon on maternal grandfather’s side!
This webinar was very easy to understand and very clearly described by the presenter. Love the late night access which I’m accessing from Central time so it’s not during my work day. Thank you so much!!
A very informative program and search method procedures.
Very informative! I appreciated the process of working through the clues and checking for commonalities. Thank you!
Excellent, easy to follow and understand.
Really detailed and I liked that it was step by step.
Great lesson!