How do you organize your genealogical research? Do you use physical storage (binders, papers, hanging files, notebooks, etc.), digital storage (genealogy program, Microsoft Word/Excel, PDF files, your laptop, the cloud, etc.), or a combination of both physical and digital? Is … Continue reading
While many of us rely on the databases of popular genealogy companies and large organizations to research our ancestors, we may be overlooking a wealth of information available in libraries and archives. For those with limited experience searching these resources, … Continue reading
At our June 19 training session, Diane Romanowsky will present “Enriching Your Ancestor’s Story Using Occupational Records, An Introduction.” Occupational records are helpful in genealogy as they provide insights into an ancestor’s daily life, socioeconomic status, possible education, and skills. … Continue reading
For many current residents of Western Massachusetts, it isn't easy to imagine that the hilltowns of Becket, Blandford, Chester, Granville, Huntington, and Middlefield were once vibrant and larger. They were deforested mainly during the 19th century to support their traditional … Continue reading
Probate records can be a gold mine for genealogical research! They often contain wills, estate inventories, guardianship records, and other legal proceedings related to a deceased person's assets. What types of information can be uncovered? Names and relationships, residences and … Continue reading
Have you struggled to locate a birth record for one of your ancestors or discovered a birth record created long after the birth itself? If your relative was born at home or in a rural area with slow registration practices, … Continue reading
Genealogy is evolving at a remarkable pace, with exciting new technologies transforming how we discover our ancestors and preserve their stories. At our September training session, we'll offer a trio of mini-presentations showcasing cutting edge resources our hosts have been … Continue reading
Many of us have encountered ancestors who mysteriously disappeared from records, only to discover they were divorced. Or we’ve found information that suggests another marriage or separation. Uncovering the official documentation behind those earlier marriages or separations can be a … Continue reading
How might traditional and AI tools be used to write a family history? In our October training, WMGS board member John Putnam will give a hands-on workshop on the strategies he uses. (You may remember John from his well-received July … Continue reading
We’re delighted to welcome nationally known genealogist Craig R. Scott to present Finding Aids and the National Archives on November 5. Craig will guide us through the structure of our National Archives. He’ll also explain how to use finding aids … Continue reading