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
It’s time for another Tech Talk With Dave! In November, Dave Lapierre will present “Mapping Your Ancestors’ Migration.” This session will expand on the mini-presentation he gave at our September 25 training session. Dave will show us how to: Use Google … Continue reading
At our December monthly meeting, genealogist Robert Cameron Weir will present “10 Genealogical Brick Walls You Will Face (and How to Demolish Them).” “In genealogy, a brick wall is an ancestor who seemingly refuses, despite repeated attempts, to reveal their … Continue reading
We’re excited to invite all members to our 4th annual virtual holiday celebration. It’s become a WMGS tradition that blends festive cheer with family history! This year’s party promises another evening of laughter, storytelling, and genealogical fun. Just like our … Continue reading