Showing posts with label NARA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NARA. Show all posts

Saturday, October 24, 2020

VGS News & Events: October 25 through October 31, 2020

Learn more about the seminar here...

For the foreseeable future, The Villages Genealogical Society will continue to conduct virtual monthly general meetings using our GoToWebinar facilities and they will be recorded. Many SIG's have access to Zoom Video Communications for their meetings.  The most accurate list of up coming meetings can be found on our website under "Coming Events."

Zoom access information will not be posted on our website for security reasons. Contact the SIG coordinator directly for Zoom meeting access information.

Coming Events:

Tuesday, October 27
Midwest SIG Meeting
2:00 pm
Online Zoom Meeting
Dona Black & Laurie Sarauer, coordinators
Topic:  "Waterways to the Midwest” with Annette Burke Lyttle

Wednesday, October 28
VGS General Monthly Meeting
10:00 am to 11:15 am
Live Virtual Meeting
Guest Speaker: Luana Darby, AG
Topic: “The Librarian Knows Where It’s At—Using State Archives and Local Libraries Resources Online” 

Wednesday, October 28
VGS General Monthly Meeting
11:30 am to 12:45 pm
Bonus Live Virtual Meeting
Guest Speaker: Luana Darby, AG
Topic: “Finding Hidden Gems: Strategic Searches on the Internet”

Gen News and Announcements:

Library of Congress Acquires Archives of the National Woman’s Party:

New York Times
"The donation, timed to the centennial of the 19th Amendment, doubles the library’s holdings relating to the party, which fought for women’s suffrage and the Equal Rights Amendment. ”

New Free Historical Records on FamilySearch: Week of 12 October 2020

FamilySearch
"Explore 1.5M new historical Ohio Voter Records (1893–1960), and over 600K New York, Index to Passenger Lists (1897–1902) and New York, Southern District Naturalization Records (1824–1946), at  FamilySearch this week. Additional records were added to the United States collections (CA, DC, HI, IA, KS, MS, MI, NJ, NY, OK, SC, TX, VA, and WA), Mexico, Aguascalientes Catholic Church Records (1601-1962), Bolivia Catholic Church Records (1566–1996), Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Great Britain, Guatemala, Norway, Nova Scotia, Peru, Puerto Rico, and South Africa. ”

New Free Historical Records on FamilySearch: Week of 19 October 2020

FamilySearch
"FamilySearch adds 100K Costa Rica Civil Registrations (1823–1975), a new collection of German Catholic and Lutheran Church Records (1537–1981), and expands available records for Argentina, Brazil, Canada, England, Fiji, Finland, France, Guatemala, Norway, Peru, Spain, S. Africa and the United States  (See Indiana Marriages, 1811–2007, Wisconsin Naturalization Records, 1807-1992, US City and Business Directories, ca.1749-1990, Washington Voting Records, 1876–1940,  Kansas Birth, Baptism and Death Records, 1811–1940, plus more for CA, HI, IA, MS, OK, SC, TX, and VA). ”

Reclaim The Records takes on the US National Archives for Billions of Records

Genealogy's Star
"It is about time that this happened. The National Archives and Records Administration is supposed to be the nation's record keeper but only %-3% are so important for legal or historical reasons that they are kept and of those only a vanishingly small number of records are digitized and available to the public other than by actually visiting the locations of the main archives or one of the branch archives. ”

1926 Census of the Irish Free State is Back in the News:

IGN
"The 1926 Census of the Irish Free State is once again making headlines. Today, it's the subject of a piece on RTÉ, Ireland's national news service, which carries a statement from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) referring to the publication on social media of data and images purporting to be from the census taken in 1926. Such publication, as the CSO makes clear in its statement, is strictly prohibited. It has also posted a tweet to this effect, see below. ”

Technology:

How to Scan with Microsoft Defender Antivirus on Windows 10:

How-to Geek
"Windows malware is still a big problem. That’s why Microsoft ships an antivirus named Microsoft Defender with Windows 10. It scans for malware in the background, but you can also perform a full-system scan with Defender.
First, open the Start menu and type “Windows Security.” Click on the “Windows Security” app icon that pops up."

Education:

A Quick Guide to Using the US Census for Genealogy:

Ancestral Findings
"Are you a genealogy beginner? If so, have you used the US census yet? Have you ever heard of the US census? This is a brief outline of what the census is and what it can do for you in your genealogical research, as well as where to find it."
Listen now...  4.21 minutes

Webinars:

Jumpstart Your MyHeritage Family Tree with Instant Discoveries:

Legacy Family Tree
"Jump start your family tree by learning how to add and evaluate instant discoveries to your MyHeritage family tree. Each Instant Discovery™ is based on MyHeritage’s superior Smart Matching™ technology from other MyHeritage family trees and Record Matching technologies from other family tree collections with automatic elimination of incorrect matches."
Tuesday, October 27, 2020, 2:00pm Eastern
Presenter: James Tanner

The New Ethnicity Estimates:

Legacy Family Tree
"The new Ethnicity Estimate introduce a whole new level of detail to MyHeritage's DNA tests. Learn more about this new presentation and what they can teach you about where you come from."
Tuesday, October 27, 2020, 2:00pm Eastern
Presenter: MyHeritage Webinars

In Black and White: Finding Historical Newspapers From Around the World

Legacy Family Tree
"Family historians know that newspapers are vital to research but it’s not always easy to find them. We’ll explore finding aids for historical newspapers around the globe to help you find what you need."
Wednesday, October 28, 2020, 2:00pm Eastern
Presenter: Gena Philibert-Ortega

Saturday, October 19, 2019

VGS News & Events: 20 October through 26 October, 2019

Coming Events:
Tuesday: October 22, 2019
Midwest SIG Meeting:
2:00 PM in the Clearwater Room at the Sea Breeze Recreation Center
Wednesday: October 23, 2019
Brick Wall SIG Meeting
8:30 AM in the Atlanta Room in the Savannah Center
Wednesday: October 23, 2019
General Monthly Meeting
10:00 AM in the Atlanta Room in the Savannah Center
Topic: “Twentieth and Twenty-First Century Research”
Wednesday: October 23, 2019
Workshop
1:30 PM in the Atlanta Room in the Savannah Center
Topic: “Major Midwestern Archives and Their Records”
You Must Register to Attend In Person... Click Here to Register...
Limited to 100 members... All Members Welcomed... Seats Available...

Gen News and Announcements:

Coming Soon: Seventh Annual Virtual Genealogy Fair - October 23, 2019

NARA
"Every year, the National Archives hosts a free, virtual Genealogy Fair via live webcast on YouTube. The sessions offer family history research tools on Federal records for all skill levels. Join thousands of family historians participating during the live event. No reservations are needed."
Learn more...

Simple Steps To Get Started on Your Ancestry® Family History Journey:

Ancestry
"A recent Ancestry® study found that 1 out of 3 Americans are unable to name all four of their grandparents, and 1 out of 5 were unable to name just one of their great-grandparents."
Continue reading...

Long Lost Family Returns to TLC

Ancestry
"People seek to reunite with their biological families after a lifetime of separation. Join them on their journeys.
Friday October 25 at 10:00 p.m. on TLC.

Why Didn’t People Smile in Old Photos?

FamilySearch
"Ever looked at an old, black-and-white photograph and wondered, “Why the long face?” You might have heard that it was because the camera’s exposure time was too long, or maybe you were told that poor dental work meant that fewer people wanted to show their teeth.
While these explanations may play a part, the main reason why people didn’t smile in old photos had more to do with culture than it did with poor technology."
Continue reading...

70 Million Historic U.S. Newspaper Pages Now Available from Advantage Archives:

The Ancestor Hunt
"Here is a list by state and county of the online collections available to search for free and those who allow searching only in the library's location."
Continue reading...

Added and Updated Ancestry.com Record Collections - Week of 6 to 12 October 2019:

Genea-Musings
"1 New and 20 existing collections were updated this week.
New: Illinois, Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield Sacramental Records, 1853-1975."
Continue reading...

Technology:

Why iPhone and iPad Apps Are Asking to Use Bluetooth:

How-To Geek
"If you’ve installed iOS 13 on your iPhone, you’ve probably noticed that many apps are suddenly asking for permission to use your Bluetooth hardware. The same change will arrive on iPads with the iPadOS update. Here’s what’s going on."
Continue reading...

Education:

Ashkenazi Jewish | Are You Related to Them? 

Ancestral Findings

"Do you have Ashkenazi Jewish DNA? This can be an exciting journey for you. Today, I’ll talk about who the Ashkenazi people are and what it means for your family history."
Listen now... 6.10 minutes

Webinars:

Privacy: How to Protect Your Information Online

Legacy Family Tree
"Protecting privacy online is a continuing concern. Family historians need to decide what personal and family history information we'd like to keep private while still sharing with cousins and other researchers. Learn more about what controls online privacy and what methods and tools are available to give us the best chance to protect our privacy choices."
Tuesday, October 22, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern
Presenter: Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL
Learn more or Register for this webinar...

Top Tech Tips for the Technologist and the Genealogist: 2019 edition

Legacy Family Tree
"Leave this class armed with a new collection of tools to make your genealogy time on the computer more efficient."
Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern
Presenter: Geoff Rasmussen
Learn more or Register for this webinar...

Decoding Secret Societies: Finding Your Female Fraternal Ancestors

Legacy Family Tree
"Do you have ancestry with membership in the Eastern Star? The Daughters of Rebekah? or another woman’s fraternal organization. This lecture focuses on those female fraternal auxiliaries and the rich genealogical material of family members who may have belonged to one or more of these secret societies."
Friday, October 25, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern
Presenter: Michael L. Strauss, AG
Learn more or Register for this webinar...


Saturday, September 28, 2019

VGS News & E vents:29 September through 5 October, 2019

Coming Events:
Tuesday: October 1, 2019
Adoption & Mystery KIN SIG Meeting
9:00 AM at the Lake Miona Recreation Center
Wednesday: October 2, 2019
French Canadian Genealogy SIG Meeting:
9:00 AM in the Julio Iglesias Room at the La Hacienda Recreation Center
Thursday: October 3, 2019
Eastern European Genealogy SIG Meeting:
1:00 PM in the Daytona Room at the Sea Breeze Recreation Center
Friday: October 4, 2019
British Genealogy SIG Meeting
9:30 AM in the Courageous Room at the Lake Miona Recreation Center

Gen News and Announcements:

Coming Soon: Seventh Annual Virtual Genealogy Fair - October 23, 2019

NARA
"Every year, the National Archives hosts a free, virtual Genealogy Fair via live webcast on YouTube. The sessions offer family history research tools on Federal records for all skill levels. Join thousands of family historians participating during the live event. No reservations are needed."
Learn more...

County Records Yield Great Sources for Your Family Tree:

FamilySearch
"County records can be a great resource for researching your family tree. Learn what you can do to discover the treasure trove of information found in county records."
Continue reading...

New Free Historical Records on FamilySearch: Week of 23 September 2019

FamilySearch
"FamilySearch.org added over 13 million new, free, unindexed digital images of historical Italian records this week from Avellino, Belluno, Caserta, Matera, Verona, and Vicenza, Italy. Other indexed records include areas from Brazil, Germany, Peru, South Africa and the United States, including Alabama and Kansas."
Search now...

90,000 Articles Published on the Free FamilySearch Wiki:

FamilySearch
"The FamilySearch Research Wiki has published its 90,000th help article, with more added weekly. The free service launched 12 years ago to help patrons quickly with their personal family history research questions. Explore it for free at the FamilySearch Research Wiki."
Continue reading...

Writing a Personal History, Journal Ideas and Why it’s Important:

Rachel J. Trotter at Meridian Magazine
"It is a chance to look at your life and see that your life that is one well-lived and to see that you have overcome triumphs, celebrated joys and survived heartaches. And not only is it therapeutic for you, it will be for countless generations after you are no longer here."
Continue reading...

Technology:

Daily News Roundup: Google Discloses iOS “Interactionless” Vulnerabilities

How-To Geek
"Google, through its Project Zero initiative, disclosed six vulnerabilities in iOS. In each case, a hacker could execute remote code on someone’s iPhone without any interaction by the user. Apple’s iOS 12.3 fixes five of the issues."
Continue reading...
As of this date iOS 12.4 is available for download... Keep your phones up to date...

Education:

Mary Elizabeth Bowser: Unsung Heroes of the Civil War:

Ancestral Findings
"This fascinating person was an African-American, formerly enslaved by the Van Lew family in Virginia, who went on to be freed, and to work closely with the abolitionist daughter of that family as a spy for the Union in the Civil War."
Listen now... 8.12 minutes

Webinars:

The Stories Behind the Segments:

Legacy Family Tree
"DNA evidence helps us break through brick walls and confirm decades of research, while introducing an entirely new generation of people to genealogy. It also allows us to create maps linking specific segments of DNA to our ancestors. But how many of us stop to consider the story behind that mapped segment of DNA on chromosome 13? Or the miles and years traveled by the piece of DNA on chromosome 22? Join me as I examine some of the amazing stories in my chromosome map!"
Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at 10:00 p.m. Eastern
Presenter: Blaine Bettinger, Ph.D., J.D.
Learn more or Register for this webinar...

A Day Out With Your DNA:

Legacy Family Tree
"While DNA testing for genealogy is no longer a new idea, many companies are offering a new way to look at your DNA.  In this lecture we will cover the biggest and brightest options, and help you decide where you should take your DNA, and how to make the most of it."
Wednesday, October 2, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern
Presenter: Diahan Southard
Learn more or Register for this webinar...

Saturday, September 14, 2019

VGS News & E vents:15 September through 21 September, 2019

Coming Events:
Tuesday: September 17, 2019
Family Tree Maker Users SIG Meeting
1:00 PM in the Patriot Room at the Mulberry Grove Recreation Center
Topic: "Your Latest Questions Answered..."
Wednesday: September 18, 2019
Brick Wall SIG Meeting
8:30 AM in the Atlanta Room in the Savannah Center
Wednesday: September 18, 2019
General Monthly Meeting
10:00 AM in the Atlanta Room in the Savannah Center
Topic: "Introduction to DNA" Blaine Bettinger
If you plan on attending the annual seminar in February, it is highly recommended that you attend this meeting or watch the post meeting presentation video.

Thursday: September 19, 2019
New England Genealogy SIG Meeting
Noon in the New Smyrna Room at the Sea Breeze Recreation Center
Friday: September 20, 2019
Scandinavian Genealogy SIG Meeting
10:00 AM in the Clearwater Room Sea Breeze Recreation Center

Gen News and Announcements:

A Message from Monique Meeks, The Villages Daily Sun

"I am currently working on a project for the Daily Sun called How We’re Connected. As part of the project, I’ve been tasked with finding two Villagers who were born in the same place (preferably city, but county could work as well) on the same date. We’re hoping to be able to give side-by-side stories of their lives (moves, marriages, military service, etc) and how they came to live in The Villages, back together once more. If your club knows of any members who share a birthday, that information would be quite helpful in helping me reach my goal. If not, I’d like to speak with a member further regarding how I may best go about locating this “needle in a haystack” of sorts so that, through research if needed, I may find the two Villagers I am looking for. Thank you so much!
352-753-1119 ext. 5387

Our 20th Annual Seminar Registrations Begins Monday

Registration for our 20th Annual Seminar begins on Monday, September 16th for members of The VGS. Residents of The Villages, FL can register as of December 16, 2019.  Our guest speaker will be Blaine Bettinger, Ph.D, J.D.  More information along with a registration form are available.
Download the Registration Packet Here...

Coming Soon: Seventh Annual Virtual Genealogy Fair - October 23, 2019

NARA
"Every year, the National Archives hosts a free, virtual Genealogy Fair via live webcast on YouTube. The sessions offer family history research tools on Federal records for all skill levels. Join thousands of family historians participating during the live event. No reservations are needed."
Learn more...

New Free Historical Records on FamilySearch: Week of 4 September 2019

FamilySearch
"FamilySearch added over 3 million Native American census rolls from 1885-1940. This week also contains free, historical records from Colombia, Croatia, El Salvador, Hungary, Mexico, Switzerland and the United States, including Hawaii, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Utah."

3 Websites To Help Start Your Mexican Family History Research:

Legacy Family Tree
"Have Mexican roots? My sons’ Mexican ancestors came to the United States in the early 20th century so while there are some familiar sources I can use to add information to that family history such as US naturalization's and census records, I also need to extend my research across the border after just a few generations. "
Continue reading...

Hungary’s Secret: New Study by MyHeritage Reveals that Hungary Has the World’s Second Largest Percentage of Population with Jewish Ancestry:

MyHeritage
"A new study that we’ve conducted in conjunction with expert statistician and demographer Dr. Daniel Staetsky has uncovered that there are surprising numbers of people descended from Jewish ancestors in Hungary — far higher than previously estimated by demographers."
Continue reading...

10 Places to Find the Free Genealogy Printables You Need

Family History Daily
"Looking for free printables to aid in your genealogy research? The right chart, form, template or worksheet can do wonders for any family historian hoping to get organized or trying to break down a frustrating brick wall. Here are 10 places you'll find them for free."
Continue reading...

Technology:

How to Protect Your Smarthome from Attack:

How-To Geek
"Every new device you introduce into your smarthome is another device that can be attacked. You can secure your smarthome with simple steps like locking down your router and taking proper care of the gadgets in your smarthome."
Continue reading...

Education:

What is a Genealogy Wiki?

Ancestral Findings
"Are you familiar with wikis? Have you ever used one for your genealogy research? If not, you should. They are excellent genealogical research tools.  Join me today on the Ancestral Findings Podcast as we look at what a wiki is, why you should be using them, and how they can benefit you as a genealogist."
Listen now... 7.37 minutes

Webinars:

Civil Law Concepts and Genealogy

Legacy Family Tree
"(Live webinar only - no recording will be available.) Civil law - as opposed to common law - is a legal system that governs private relationships and interactions in most non-English speaking countries. Rooted in principles derived from ancient Roman law, it is the legal system that governs an estimated 60% of the world’s populations, including most European countries. Consequently, researchers tracing ancestral lines outside the United States frequently encounter records created in a civil law tradition. Proper interpretation of those records requires understanding the underlying civil law principles. In the United States only the state of Louisiana is today ruled by civil law, a legacy of the state’s unique colonial history under France and Spain. Colonial records created under civil law are also among the colonial records of California, parts of the Mississippi Valley, the Gulf Coast, and the American southwest. This presentation discusses major legal concepts that affect records and research in civil law societies."
Tuesday, September 17, 2019 at 8:00 p.m. Eastern
Presenter: Claire Bettag, CG
Learn more or Register for this webinar...

Research Latin America Genealogical Resources on the Internet

Legacy Family Tree
"This webinar will refer to many genealogical and general resources, computer databases, cemeteries, immigration, and citizenship records available in countries like Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Costa Rica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and the Caribbean. Daniel will provide a brief overview of government records available online, how to access them or get in touch with organizations, schools, clubs, cemeteries, newspapers, genealogical societies, and more."
Wednesday, September 18, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern
Presenter: Daniel Horowitz
Learn more or Register for this webinar...

Saturday, November 17, 2018

VGS News & Events: 18 November 2018 through 24 November 2018


Coming Events:
Your Personal Genealogical Education Plan

Monday, November 19

Your Personal Genealogical Education Plan  (Live Webinar)
7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Online Webinar
Presented By: Elissa Scalise Powell, CG, CGL
Presentation Description:  Genealogists who avail themselves of education are more successful in their research goals, but they face realities of time and budget constraints and can be confused by the many choices available. Webinar attendees will receive help to assess their goals and levels of abilities to find which opportunities are best for them. Be prepared to write answers to the questions posed which will result in a personal education plan that can be put into action. Scholarship information and tips for economical education are also discussed.

Please register for the webinar at:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Elissa has given us permission to record the webinar and make it and her handout available to members only for 90 days after the broadcast.
VGS General Monthly Meeting
VGS General Monthly Meeting  (Workshop)
1:30 pm to 2:30 pm
Savannah Regional Recreation Center
Our guest speaker will be Margo Fariss Brewer
You must register to attend...
Afternoon session: “A Family Narrative Your Family Will Want to Read” 
Registration is now open for all members.
Presenter Bio:  Margo Fariss Brewer is an active lecturer, consultant, instructor and the co-leader of genealogy trips to the Family History Library in Salt Lake City and Allen County Public Library which she finds strengthens her research and teaching skills. Her genealogy courses include beginning through advanced methodology, writing your family history narrative so it will be read, a genealogy computer lab and DNA testing for genealogy; her courses are offered through Duke University's OSHER Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) where she has been on the faculty since 2004. Her lecture specialties include methodology, writing an enjoyable family history narrative with historical context, historical occupations, and military and land records; she focuses on records within the United States. Margo is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, Genealogical Speakers Guild (president), National Genealogical Society (2016 Conference vice-chair), Virginia Genealogical Society and several other local and state genealogical societies.
Can't be there in person... You can attend on your computer, tablet, or smart phone no matter where you are. You must register in advance to attend remotely. You be able to hear the presentation and see the speaker's slides. Please register for this afternoon workshop at: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1894936116497198850

Our 19th Annual All-Day Seminar
Friday, February 22, 2019
Our 19th Annual All-Day Seminar
9:00 am to 3:30 pm
Savannah Regional Recreation Center
Our guest speaker will be David E. Rencher, AG,CG,FIGRS,FUGA
"David Rencher is FamilySearch International's chief genealogical officer. In his downtown office overlooking the meticulous flower gardens of the Mormon Church’s corporate headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah, Rencher has lost none of the passion for family history that started his career nearly four decades ago as a young Irish research reference consultant at the Family History Library just a block away. He is a diehard advocate for the family researcher, and avid proponent for the continual development of tools and tech advancements that raise the tide of quality genealogical research skills employed by the growing wave of family history beginners worldwide." familysearch profile
Please note the date, day and place changes for this seminar.

Gen News and Announcements:

4 Things You Should Definitely Do With Your DNA Results (and 3 You Shouldn’t)

Family History Daily
"The period after you get your DNA test results may not seem like the right time to start thinking about privacy settings, but many people don’t consider what information will be available to others, and how to protect it, until this time."
Continue reading...

New Historical Records on FamilySearch: Week of November 12, 2018:

FamilySearch
"FamilySearch added 3.5 million records from the 1901 Ireland Census, and 1.4 million naturalization records from New York. Other countries include Honduras, Peru, and the United States (Minnesota, Oregon, and Texas).
Research these free new records and images by clicking on the collection links below, or go to FamilySearch to search over 8 billion free names and record images."
Continue reading...

Researching the Genetics of Human Lifespan:

AncestryDNA
"Three years ago, we announced a collaboration with Calico, a research and development company focused on the biology of longevity. Today, our first joint research paper was published in GENETICS, a journal of the Genetics Society of America."
Continue reading...

Tag it! Introducing the National Archives Facebook Chatbot:

Ancestry
"What do you get when you have an bold strategic goal to have one million records enhanced by citizen archivists in the National Archives Catalog and an idea to try something new on a social site? You create a Facebook Messenger Chatbot, of course!"
Continue reading...

How To Quickly Find Free Genealogy Records Through the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA):

Family History Daily
"Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there was an online research site that allowed you to easily search for records about your ancestors from repositories across the USA? One that linked to actual records that you could view online?
Wouldn’t it be even more wonderful if that site was completely free for anyone to use?
Continue reading...

Dallas Public Library Teams with FamilySearch to Digitize Genealogy Collections:

FamilySearch
"The Dallas Public Library is working with FamilySearch International, the largest genealogical organization in the world, to digitize the library’s extensive family history book collection. The initiative will expand free online patron access worldwide to the library’s historical records digitized. Search FamilySearch's Historical Book Collections."
Continue reading...

10 Things You Should Know About Every Ancestor in Your Tree:

Family History Daily
"When you first set out to research your family history, you probably started with a basic tree – online or off. And the information required to complete such a tree (or chart) is pretty straightforward; you simply fill in your ancestors’ names, birth dates and places, marriage details, and death information…then you go on to the next generation.
And, in truth, this is as far as many people ever go with their trees. They gather the most basic details and move on, trying to add as many names as they can.
Continue reading...

Technology:

How to Wirelessly Transfer Photos from Your Camera to Your Computer:

How-to-Geek

"If you’re a prolific shutterbug, you know what a hassle it is to constantly pull the SD card from your camera, plug it into your computer, and transfer the files to get to the snapshots you just took. Here’s how to add Wi-Fi based photo transfer to your digital camera."
Continue reading...

Education:

You Have Your DNA Results. Now What? - Gedmatch

Family History Fanatics
"Now that you have your genetic tests complete, what do you do next? Compare your DNA results to tests of AncestryDNA, 23andMe, and others using GedMatch.com. This video will walk you step-by-step through the process of exporting your results from your testing company to GEDMATCH.com."
Watch now...  10.15 minutes

Webinars:

Every Day Life of Our Ancestors:

Legacy Family Tree Webinars
"Our ancestors led lives, just like us - only different. Using our life as an example, how can we parallel it to theirs? They ate and drank, married and had families, dressed, had trades and occupations, practiced a religion, dabbled in the arts and sciences, participated in politics and economics, etc. This lecture will examine the various aspects of life and provide resources to discover the historical context and personal details of our ancestors' lives."
Tuesday, November 20, 2018 at 8:00 p.m.
Presenter: Ann Staley, CG, CGL
Learn more or Register for this webinar...


Saturday, August 4, 2018

VGS News & Events: 5 August 2018 through 11 August 2018

More Florida Pioneer Records
Read about the project here...
Meeting Reminders:
Tuesday: August 7, 2018
Adoption & Mystery KIN SIG Meeting
9:00 AM at the Lake Miona Recreation Center
Thursday: August 9, 2018
German Genealogy SIG Meeting
9:30 AM in the Reliance Room at the Late Miona Recreation Center
Topic: "Member Success Stories & Brick Walls"
Friday: August 10, 2018
Genetic Genealogy SIG Meeting
10:00 AM in the Rhett Butler Room at the Savannah Center
Topic: “Building Your Genome (and Those of Your Ancestors)”

Coming Soon...
Wednesday, October 24
Fall Virtual Seminar On Immigration Records
9:00 am to 3:30 pm
Online Virtual Conference
This all-day seminar is offered free to our members as part of our celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Villages Genealogical Society.
PLEASE NOTE: There will be no in-person meeting in October. We will attend the presentations via our own computers or devices at whatever location is convenient for us. (That doesn’t mean you can’t get together with other genealogy buddies for a watch party at somebody’s house, though!)
You MUST register for the presentations in order to get the link to join the seminar on October 24th.
Registration is now open at:  Register HERE...
Download the event flyer here...

Gen News and Announcements:

Special Announcement:

Announcing the Villages Genealogical Society’s New Webinar Series: 

The VGS is pleased to announce a new educational opportunity for our members; a monthly webinar series in which we’ll bring you presentations by distinguished genealogical speakers. Our webinars will be the second Monday of the month at 7 p.m. Eastern.

Our first presentation in the series will be September 10, 2018, at 7 p.m. Eastern. Julie Miller, CG, CGL, FNGS, will present “Sources or Clues? Pitfalls of Using Published Genealogies and Online Trees.”

Presentation description: Is it okay to use published genealogies and online trees in the search for our ancestors? Published genealogies and online trees are abundant, they are found in many places and in many different forms. But what happens when we just copy and use what is in published genealogies and online trees? This case study illustrates the confusion and the problems that may result if precautions are not taken.

Presenter bio: Julie Miller is a board-certified genealogist and genealogical lecturer who is a full-time professional researcher, speaker, and writer. She is the National Genealogical Society (NGS) Education Manager, was the conference chair of the 2010 and 2012 NGS conferences, and is an NGS fellow. Julie speaks on a wide variety of genealogy subjects both locally and nationally. Her articles have appeared in the NGSQ, NGS Magazine, and she was the genealogy columnist for the Broomfield Enterprise for ten years. Julie has been a volunteer at NARA-Denver for twenty years.

Please register for the webinar at:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4171457348337485826
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Julie has given us permission to record her presentation. After the live broadcast, it will be available in the Members Only section of the VGS website for 90 days.

Future presentations will be announced as speakers are booked. We hope you enjoy this opportunity to participate in quality genealogical education no matter whether you’re in The Villages or anywhere else in the world.

New Historical Records on FamilySearch: Week of July 23, 2018:

FamilySearch
"FamilySearch expands its free online archives this week with new records and images from Belgium, Bolivia, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Peru, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, and the United States, including sources for Native Americans."
Search now...

Archives Recalls Fire That Claimed Millions of Military Personnel Files:

National Archives News
"The National Archives and Records Administration recently marked the 45th anniversary of a devastating fire at the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) in St. Louis, Missouri, that destroyed approximately 16–18 million Official Military Personnel Files (OMPF) documenting the service history of former military personnel discharged from 1912 to 1964."
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12 Free Genealogy Research Sites for Australia and New Zealand:

Family History Daily
"In this article we have listed a variety of free genealogy record sites and research resources to help you uncover the stories of your Australian or New Zealander ancestors."
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Do You Have Errors Hiding in Your Family Tree? Here’s How to Find Out:

Family History Daily
"As we expand and edit our trees over time, it is not uncommon for mistakes to slip in – especially when we are adding new members to the family, transcribing a record by hand or allowing a subscription program to add information for us via discoveries and hints. Many errors are simple mistakes in data entry, however, and be fixed quite easily – IF we can catch them."
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New Jersey Death Index & More U.S. Genealogy Records Online:

Genealogy Gems
"The New Jersey Death Index tops this week’s list of new and updated U.S. genealogy records online. Along with a Native American census collection, our list includes family history records for Georgia, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Among the documents you can search for your ancestors are vital records, obituaries, digitized newspapers and even home movies!"
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Ancestry To Close Orem Call Center:

Daily Herald
"Ancestry.com is closing its Orem call center due to a partnership with a customer contact business."
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Ancestry, 23andMe And Others Say They Will Follow These Rules When Giving DNA Data To Businesses Or Police:

The Washington Post
"Ancestry, 23andMe and other popular companies that offer genetic testing pledged on Tuesday to be upfront when they share users’ DNA data with researchers, hand it over to police or transfer it to other companies, a move aimed at addressing consumers' mounting privacy concerns."
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Technology:

How to Choose the Best VPN Service for Your Needs:

How-to-Geek
"If you’re looking for the best VPN for torrenting, privacy, bypassing censorship, staying anonymous online, getting around geographic restrictions, or just location shifting, you’ve got a lot of confusing choices. Keep reading as we help you pick the right VPN for you."
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Education:

Double Dating in Genealogy:

Ancestral Findings
"Did you know that there was a change in our calendar in 1752? There was, and it changed the way things were dated. Join me today and we’ll try to figure it all out, and get the date correct in your research."
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Webinars:

Genealogical Proof for the Novice Genealogist:

Legacy Family Tree Webinars
"How do you know if the facts you've uncovered are correct? How do you avoid attaching somebody else's ancestors to your family tree? This introduction to the Genealogical Proof Standard will get your research moving in the right direction from the beginning and help you avoid errors and frustration."
Wednesday, August 08, 2018 at 8:00 p.m.
Presenter: Annette Burke Lyttle, VGS Vice-President
Learn more or Register for this webinar...

50 Websites To Find Vital Records:

Legacy Family Tree Webinars
"Where do you find vital records? That simple question doesn't always have an easy answer. In this presentation, we will explore online finding aids, indexes, vital record alternatives and digitized copies of vital records. This information is a must for anyone researching US ancestors."
Friday, August 10, 2018 at 2:00 p.m.
Presenter: Gena Philibert-Ortega
Learn more or Register for this webinar...


Thursday, July 13, 2017

VGS Latest News and Tips: 13 July 2017

Reminder:
Today: July 13, 2017
German Genealogy SIG Meeting
9:30 AM in the Reliance Room at the Late Miona Recreation Center
Topic: No formal presentation.  Concentration will be on member success stories & brick walls plus updates on genealogical sites and methods.
Tomorrow: July 14, 2017
Genetic Genealogy SIG Meeting
10:00 AM in the Rhett Butler Room at the Savannah Center
Topic: "Using Third Party Online Tools"

Gen News:

Finding Your Immigrant Ancestors with FamilySearch:

FamilySearch
"The history of many countries—including the United States and Canada—is filled with stories of immigrants, which, for many of us, means that our individual family histories are also filled with them. Your immigrant ancestors might have come from Italy a couple of generations ago or from England a few centuries ago—or you might even have both of those varieties of immigrants on your family tree. While the specifics of our immigrant ancestors may look different, the existence of immigrant branches on our family trees is something most of us have in common."
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I’m Afraid Of Sharing Too Much With Friends:

Genealogy Jen
"It was July. My friends and I were at the lake, sitting in the sand, near the shore. I wasn’t surprised by their looks as I finished talking. All three women stared at me. At least one in the group had her head cocked slightly. I know that baffled, twenty four degree angle, head tilt well. It was followed by puzzled wrinkles forming above her eyebrows.
There was silence as my last phrase was left hanging mid-air."
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Stand Up For Records Access!

Judy G. Russell
"On May 22, 2017, President Trump released more details about his proposed Fiscal Year 2018 budget. Overall there were cuts to many of the programs that genealogists regularly use. The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is targeted for a $16.6 million reduction in addition to the elimination of the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC), an archival grant making arm of the National Archives which provides local and state funding in the preservation of essential historical materials making them more accessible to the public. Since 1964 NHPRC has provided grants to every state and you can view a detailed list for the last thirty years at https://www.archives.gov/nhprc/projects/states-territories."
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Tech:

Why Does the Home Button on My iPhone 7 Feel Weird?

How-to-Geek
"If you’ve just bought an iPhone 7, one of the first things you’ll notice is that the Home Button feels a little different. The iPhone 7’s Home Button isn’t like any that have come before: it isn’t even a real button."
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Why Does My iPhone 7 Plus Have Two Cameras?

How-to-Geek
"Apple isn’t the first manufacturer to put two cameras on their phone (LG, HTC and Huawei all beat them to it), but Apple’s iPhone 7 Plus is the first to really make a splash. But what’s the advantage of this shiny new two-camera setup? Let’s have a look."
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Education:

Identifying Old Photographs: How to Do It and How It Can Help Your Research:

Ancestral Findings
"Learning how to identify the time period and people in old family photos is an art. It is also a worthy genealogical endeavor. Here's how to do it correctly."
Listen now... 7.59 minutes

Thursday, October 27, 2016

VGS Latest News & Tips: 27 October 2016

Today: National Archives Virtual Genealogy Fair:
NARA
"Yesterday the National Archives began hosting a two-day, virtual Genealogy Fair via webcast.
Sessions continue today and registration is not required."
More details...

Expand Your Family Tree: 4 Effective Ideas:
Crestleaf
"At one point or another, every genealogist takes a look at their family tree and wonders if it may be missing some information. Whether your family tree is already robust or the branches are fairly sparse, your family’s history can certainly be expanded upon — no matter how deep you are into your research. But how do you start expanding your family tree even if you think you’ve exhausted every potential resource?"
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Why Your Family Name Was Not Changed at Ellis Island (and One That Was):
NY Public Library
"Between 1892 and 1954, over twelve million people entered the United States through the immigration inspection station at Ellis Island, a small island located in the upper bay off the New Jersey coast. There is a myth that persists in the field of genealogy, or more accurately, in family lore, that family names were changed there. They were not."
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DNA Testing Links 300-Year-Old Remains Of A Baby To A Colonial Maryland Governor:
The Washington Post
"The surviving pieces of the baby’s skull are paper thin in places. There are holes in the cranium. And the infant has the classic “rosary bead” rib deformities of the ancient childhood disease rickets."
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How to Back Up Your Text Messages to Dropbox or Google Drive on Android:
How-to-Geek
"You never know when you’re going to need to reference an old text message with an important bit of info, and the easiest way to make sure you never lose anything is by backing up. Fortunately, pushing all of your Android phone’s text messages to the cloud is super easy."
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This Day In History: 27 October
1553: Michael Servetus, who discovered the pulmonary circulation of the blood, is burned for heresy in Switzerland.
1791: President George Washington transmits to Congress the results of the first US census, exclusive of South Carolina which had not yet submitted its findings.
1809: President James Madison orders the annexation of the western part of West Florida. Settlers there had rebelled against Spanish authority.
1858 Birthday: Theodore Roosevelt, 26th president of the United States (1901-1909).

State Timelines:
Even though it is hard to tell what made people move or disappear, these are just a few possibilities.
Hawaii:
1878: Population: 76% Native Hawaiian, 10% Chinese, 6% Mixed Hawaiian, 2% American
1880: Mauna Loa eruption adds 24 square miles to shoreline
1887: Pearl Harbor ceded to United States

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

VGS Latest News & Tips: 26 October 2016

Today: October 26, 2016
Brick Wall SIG Meeting
8:30 AM in the Rhett Butler in the Savannah Center
Today: October 26, 2016
General Monthly Meeting
10:00 AM in the Rhett Butler in the Savannah Center
Topic:"Little Known & Under Used Features of The VGS Website."

Today: National Archives Virtual Genealogy Fair:
NARA
"Today and tomorrow. the National Archives is hosting a two-day, virtual Genealogy Fair via webcast. Registration is not required."
More details...

Another Daniel Miller – A Y DNA Tale – 52 Ancestors #135
DNAeXplained
"Just when you think you have the family all straightened out, a left hook comes along, sneaks up and sucker-punches you."
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Explore Ancestry Videos, Ancestry DNA, and More!
Pinterest
"The world’s catalog of ideas..."
See what's available...
Editor's Note: You need a Pinterest account to view these files. It's free!

DNA + Genealogy = Adventure, Answers & Perspective:
Beyond the Branches
"Genetic genealogy has dramatically expanded the resource landscape for genealogists. Today DNA testing goes hand-in-hand with other genealogical records such as census’, wills and land grants as we follow the journey to learn about the lives of our ancestors.  Yet when it comes to  DNA,  it is far more personal."
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How to use the Billion Graves Index:
FindMyPast (Re-posted by Request)
"The Billion Graves index is a great resource if you're looking for information about your ancestor's death. The Billion Graves index includes over 12 million headstone records for the United States alone, and each entry includes a transcript of what's included in the record, a photograph of the gravestone, and GPS details of the location of the gravestone, so you don't have to leave the comfort of your home to see your ancestor's grave, which can save you a lot of time and money in your search."
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What Does "DAUGHTERED OUT" Mean?
familytree.com
"The phrase “daughtered out” is an interesting one because it combines concepts from genealogy and from sociology. The concept doesn’t have as big an impact today as it once did, mostly due to changes in how society views the importance of women."
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How to Change the Size and Color of the Mouse Pointer in Windows:
How-to-Geek
“Where the heck is my mouse pointer?” If you’ve asked yourself that question too many times, you can change the size and color of your mouse pointer to make it easier to find on the screen."
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This Day In History: 26 October
1774: The first Continental Congress, which protested British measures and called for civil disobedience, concludes in Philadelphia.
1825: The first boat on the Erie Canal leaves Buffalo, N.Y.
1881: Three Earp brothers and Doc Holliday have a shootout with the Clantons and McLaurys at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona Territory.
1854 Birthday: Charles William Post, food manufacturer, creator of “Grape Nuts” and “Post Toasties.”

State Timelines:
Even though it is hard to tell what made people move or disappear, these are just a few possibilities.
Hawaii:
1852: Chinese contract laborers start to arrive
1860-1880: Chinese subject to public attacks
1870: Lepers transported to the island of Molokai

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

VGS Latest News & Tips: 25 October 2016

Tomorrow: October 26, 2016
Brick Wall SIG Meeting
8:30 AM in the Rhett Butler in the Savannah Center
Tomorrow: October 26, 2016
General Monthly Meeting
10:00 AM in the Rhett Butler in the Savannah Center
Topic:"Little Known & Under Used Features of The VGS Website."

Tomorrow: National Archives Virtual Genealogy Fair:
NARA
"On October 26 & 27, 2016 (Wednesday & Thursday), the National Archives is hosting a two-day, virtual Genealogy Fair via webcast. Viewers have the opportunity to participate with the presenters and other family historians during the live event on YouTube. All of the session videos and handouts will be available from this web page free of charge. You can watch the sessions and download the materials at your convenience. Registration is not required."
More details...

Teddy Roosevelt Shot; Delivers Campaign Speech Anyway:
GenealogyBank
"It almost seemed like a political advertising campaign gone awry – but one no consultant would ever dare propose. When Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt formed the Progressive Party to run for a third term as president in 1912, it became known as the “Bull Moose Party” after he declared: “I’m as fit as a bull moose.” Then, thanks to a would-be assassin’s bullet, Roosevelt got the chance to back up that claim."
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Bundle of Ten DNA Guides by Diahan Southard – 28% Off through October 31
GenealogyBlog
"Diahan Southard has now written ten 4-page laminated guides on DNA research. These have all turned out to be extremely popular. FRPC is now making a bundle of all 10 available through October 31 at 28% off! That’s just for just $64.44 (plus $5.50 p&h).
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Doctor, Doctor! Medical Directories Reveal The Legacies Of UK Medicine:
Ancestry
"Spanning more than 350 years, Ancestry’s new UK Medical Registers document the careers of some of the most notable names in British medical history, including the man who discovered Penicillin, Britain’s first recognised female doctor and even a pair of suspected serial killers from the world of medicine."

Do you have a St. Louis Ancestor?
Add their story to our NEW biography collection!
StLGS
"In honor of Missouri’s 200th birthday in 2021, we are encouraging StLGS members to submit short biographies and accompanying photos of their St. Louis City/County ancestors. Each bio should be no longer than 500 words and each photo should be a high quality JPG image; please submit all writing and photos electronically. You may submit as many bios as you like."
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Documenting and Passing on Family Treasures:
Olive Tree Genealogy
"My grandmother Ruth gave me many family treasures when I was a teenager. They mean the world to me and I spend a lot of time mulling over how best to get the next generation interested in them."
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How to Manage, Customize, and Block Notifications in Android Lollipop and Marshmallow:
How-to-Geek
"Android has always done notifications consistently well over its various iterations. In Android Lollipop and Marshmallow, notifications have gotten even better, giving users specific, granular control over notifications for every application installed on your device."
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This Day In History: 25 October
1916: German pilot Rudolf von Eschwege shoots down his first enemy plane, a Nieuport 12 of the Royal Naval Air Service over Bulgaria.
1923: The Teapot Dome scandal comes to public attention as Senator Thomas J. Walsh of Montana, subcommittee chairman, reveals the findings of the past 18 months of investigation. His case will result in the conviction of Harry F. Sinclair of Mammoth Oil, and later Secretary of the Interior Albert B. Fall, the first cabinet member in American history to go to jail. The scandal, named for the Teapot Dome oil reserves in Wyoming, involved Fall secretly leasing naval oil reserve lands to private companies.
1954: President Dwight Eisenhower conducts the first televised Cabinet meeting.
1881 Birthday: Pablo Picasso, painter and sculptor or over 6,000 works.

State Timelines:
Even though it is hard to tell what made people move or disappear, these are just a few possibilities.
Hawaii:
1819: First missionaries embarked for Hawaii
1824: Uprising bordered on Civil War
1848-50: Private land ownership introduced