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TENNESSEE GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

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All events are listed in Central time. If you have any questions concerning our events, please feel free to contact our Programs Manager

Upcoming events

  • Event Education-Let's Discuss It!

    • Saturday, February 22, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 400
    Register

    Let's Discuss It! by John Ware

    Join our popular discussion group and learn what is trending in Genealogy. John Ware will examine the latest websites, software programs, technologies and tools.

    County Corner: Anderson, Bledsoe and Bradley Counties

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-GEN 101-Of Vital Importance:Finding Your Family’s Vital Records

    • Wednesday, February 26, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 307
    Register

    Of Vital Importance: Finding Your Family’s Vital Records by Chuck Sherrill

    Births and deaths, marriages and divorces – every family has them! These vital records are the lynchpins that anchor every genealogy research project. For the genealogist, knowing what records are available for the places your ancestors lived is the starting point. This lecture will help you discover the available records and then address how to gain access. Learn also how to search successfully, and to evaluate and use what you find to put your family tree together. 

    Chuck Sherrill retired from the position of State Librarian and Archivist in 2022. He continues to work at the Tennessee State Library and Archives part-time, processing manuscript collections and assisting with special projects.

    Sherrill was named State Librarian and Archivist of Tennessee by Secretary of State Tre Hargett in 2010. This appointment followed ten years of service to the City of Brentwood, where he was the director of one of Tennessee's premier public libraries. Prior to that he was head of the research section of the Tennessee State Library and Archives. Before moving to the Nashville area he was the Director of the Cleveland (Tenn.) Public Library for nine years, and, before that, Head Reference Librarian at the Western Reserve Historical Society.

     Access will be through GoToWebinar. Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event. Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.
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  • Event Education-GEN 101-Probate Records

    • Wednesday, March 05, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 285
    Register

    GEN 101-Probate Records by John Ware

    Understand probate records and how to apply them to genealogical research. Learn what probate records are available, where to find them, and what information to glean from the records.


    John W. Ware is the current TNGS Director of Education and also leads the monthly, "Let's Discuss it Series."


    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.
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  • Event Education-TN Online Research Resources

    • Saturday, March 08, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 317
    Register

    TN Online Research Resources by Merle Ilgenfritz

    This presentation will explore the various online genealogical resources for researchers searching for their ancestors that lived in Tennessee.

    Merle Ilgenfritz is a computer consultant that has been teaching corporations for over 30 years. His hobbies are computer based genealogy and DNA based research. He has been researching his roots for almost 50 years.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.
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  • Event Education-GEN 101-Firmly Planted: Finding Ancestors in Land Records

    • Wednesday, March 12, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 271
    Register

    Firmly Planted: Finding Ancestors in Land Records

    by Chuck Sherrill

    Deeds and land grants help us learn about our ancestors and their migration. And even if your ancestors didn’t own lands, there may be information about them in land records. In this class we will talk about finding and using deeds as well as state and federal land grants. We will carefully analyze a deed to learn how to pull out the important details. Finally, we’ll discuss locating the land on a current map, and perhaps standing on the site of your ancestor’s home

    Deeds and land grants help us learn about our ancestors and their migration. And even if your ancestors didn’t own lands, there may be information about them in land records. In this class we will talk about finding and using deeds as well as state and federal land grants. We will carefully analyze a deed to learn how to pull out the important details. Finally, we’ll discuss locating the land on a current map, and perhaps standing on the site of your ancestor’s home.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Spring Seminar - The Occupations of Our Ancestors

    • Saturday, March 15, 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 325
    Register

    TNGS 2025 SPRING VIRTUAL SEMINAR

    The Occupations of Our Ancestors 

    Saturday March 15, 2025

    Admission is free to Members and Non-Members

     Recordings will be available to Members for 30 days

    All times are Central Standard Time

    Session Schedule

    Virtual Doors Open at 8:30 a.m.

    Opening Remarks & Introduction

    9:00 a.m.-9:15 a.m.

    Reconstructing the Lives of Our Farming Ancestors

    Annette Burke Lyttle

    9:15 a.m.-10:15 a.m.

    It’s a rare family tree that doesn’t contain at least some farm families, since until the latter part of the 19th century farmers made up a majority of workers in America. Learn how genealogical records and social history resources can help us reconstruct the life stories of our farming ancestors.

    Break 10:15 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

    Reconstructing the Lives of Our Blacksmithing Ancestors


    Annette Burke Lyttle

    10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

    For centuries blacksmiths, who worked with iron and other metals, were indispensable community members. They made a huge variety of products, from swords and armor to cooking pots and hinges, from nails, tools, and farm implements to horseshoes, wagon axles, and fire tongs. Every community used to have its own blacksmith. Learn what life was like for our ancestors who followed this trade.

    Lunch 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

    Women's Work: Tracking Your Ancestors Occupations and Volunteer Work


    Gena Philibert Ortega

    12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m.

    Discover the often-overlooked roles women played in shaping family, community, and society through their work and volunteer efforts. This presentation will guide you in uncovering your female ancestors’ occupations—both paid and unpaid—ranging from traditional roles like homemaking and teaching to unexpected professions and community leadership. 

    Break 1:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. 

    The WPA: Sources for Your Genealogy


    Gena Philibert Ortega

    1:45 p.m.-2:45 p.m.

    The Works Progress Administration left behind a legacy that is used by family historians today.  In this presentation we will discuss The WPA, projects under the WPA relevant to genealogy, and how you can research some of those records today.

    Q&A & Wrap 

    2:45 p.m.-3:00 p.m.


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  • Event Education-GEN 101-Military Records

    • Wednesday, March 19, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 300
    Register

    Gen 101-Military Records by Craig Scott

    Learn the components of basic military research, including what you need to know about your ancestor. Learn of records created by the war, such as muster rolls and hospital records, and records created after the war, such as pensions and bounty land records.

    Craig Roberts Scott, MA, CG, FUGA is the President and CEO of Heritage Books, Inc. A professional genealogical and historical researcher for more than thirty years, he specializes in the records of the National Archives, especially those that relate to the military. Former IGHR, SLIG, and GRIP Military Course Coordinator.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.
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  • Event Education-Let's Discuss It!

    • Saturday, March 22, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 430
    Register

    Let's Discuss It! by John Ware

    Join our popular discussion group and learn what is trending in Genealogy. John Ware will examine the latest websites, software programs, technologies and tools.

    County Corner: Fentress, Franklin and Humphreys Counties

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-GEN 101 Vertical Files

    • Wednesday, March 26, 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 384
    Register

    Genealogy 101 - Vertical Files

    By Melissa Barker

    PLEASE NOTICE THIS BEGINS AT 6:00 PM

    Vertical Files, sometimes called Subject Files, are a collection of miscellaneous documents and ephemera that are put in file folders which are then stored in filing cabinets and catalogued by surname or by subject name. These files are a hodge-podge of records and could contain just about anything that can fit into a file folder. This presentation will show the genealogist how to find these records and how to use them.

    Melissa Barker is a Certified Archives Manager at the Houston County, Tennessee Archives and Museum.  She is a genealogist, speaker, lecturer, author, and blogger.  She also is a member of TNGS and serves on the Program Committee.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar. Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event. Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.
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  • Event Education-GEN 101 DNA-Using Y-DNA to Find Your Distant Relatives

    • Saturday, April 05, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 406
    Register

    GEN101 DNA-Using Y-DNA to Find Your Distant Relatives by Merle Ilgenfritz

    PLEASE NOTE THIS GEN101 IS ON A SATURDAY

    This presentation will cover the basics of why you would want to take a Y-DNA test and why can only men take the test and how can you use the results in your genealogical research.

    Merle Ilgenfritz is a computer consultant that has been teaching corporations for over 30 years. His hobbies are computer based genealogy and DNA based research. He has been researching his roots for almost 50 years.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.

               



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  • Event Education-GEN 101-Manuscript Collections

    • Wednesday, April 09, 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 392
    Register

    Genealogy 101 - Manuscript Collections

    By Melissa Barker

    PLEASE NOTE THIS BEGINS AT 6:00 PM

    Genealogists use all kinds of tools to help them with their genealogy research. One of the best tools to understand and use when working with Manuscript Collections is the Finding Aid.  Archivists develop Finding Aids to help genealogists navigate through Manuscript Collections to find their ancestors. This presentation will help genealogists read, follow, and use a Finding Aid to find your ancestors in the records.

    Melissa Barker is a Certified Archives Manager at the Houston County, Tennessee Archives and Museum.  She is a genealogist, speaker, lecturer, author, and blogger.  She also is a member of TNGS and serves on the Program Committee.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar. Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event. Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.
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  • Event Education-In the Beginning, All America Was Virginia

    • Saturday, April 12, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via Webinar
    • 353
    Register

    In the Beginning, All America Was Virginia

    by Ann Blomquist

    “In the Beginning, All America was Virginia” will focus on how to search for Virginia ancestors from the founding of the colony in 1607 through the American Revolution. Many of our early ancestors resided there before migrating westward. The suggestions for tracing early ancestors there can be applied to other early colonies as well. 

    Ann K. Blomquist, M.Ed., is the administrator of the First Families of TN program at the East TN Historical Society in Knoxville. Ann is the registrar for the Knoxville chapters of Daughters of 1812 and Daughters of the American Colonists. In June she will be registrar for her Jefferson County DAR chapter. She is the author of 13 genealogy books, the editor of three genealogy magazines, and a presenter at genealogy conferences and workshops. 

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Gen 101-Immigration and Naturalization Records

    • Wednesday, April 16, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 405
    Register

    Immigration and Naturalization Records 

    by John Ware

    We are all immigrants, this discussion will help you locate the records of your family's entrance into this country and we will also provide you the tools to determine when and how your ancestors may have become citizens.

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-GEN 101-Putting It All Together

    • Wednesday, April 23, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 477
    Register

    GEN 101-Putting It All Together by Carla Maitland

    Now that you’ve been through the various steps of how to begin your genealogical journey, what do you plan to do with what you’ve learned? In this session you’ll be given a few ideas about putting your knowledge into practice. There will also be a unique ending to this session that you won’t want to miss!

    Carla Love Maitland is currently the President of the Tennessee Genealogical Society. She also serves as the Genealogist for the Public Records Commission of Shelby County. She is as an officer in several of the lineage societies she belongs to and is an active member of various heritage, historical, and other genealogical societies.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.

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  • Event Education-Let's Discuss It!

    • Saturday, April 26, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual event via GoToWebinar
    • 485
    Register

    Let's Discuss It! by John Ware

    Join our popular discussion group and learn what is trending in Genealogy. John Ware will examine the latest websites, software programs, technologies and tools.

    County Corner: Claiborne, Cocke and Grainger Counties

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-WWII Codebreaking

    • Saturday, May 10, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 493
    Register

    WWII Codebreaking by Mike Ellicott

    Codes and ciphers have been around since the time of Caesar.  In more modern times, the successful cracking of German and Japanese WWII codes contributed significantly to the Allies’ victory.  Using the work of Polish codebreakers, British cryptographers broke the German Enigma and Lorentz Ciphers.  In the US, the Army and Navy brought 10,000 “Code Girls” to Washington, DC, to help break Japanese, German, and international commercial codes. 

    Mike Ellicott, a recovering Mechanical Engineer, now spends his time on his lifelong love of history. In addition to making presentations to local groups, he and his wife Marilyn lead tours of the Gettysburg and Normandy Battlefields, the National WWII Museum in New Orleans, and Germany, where they lived for 14 years. He is the Past President of the Friends of the Morton Museum in Collierville and a Board Member of the Engineers’ Club of Memphis. He completed a twenty-six-year career in the Army Corps of Engineers, retiring as a Colonel and the Corps’ Europe District Commander in Frankfurt, Germany. Following a 16-year career in Higher Education Facilities, he retired again as the Vice Chancellor for Facilities Planning and Construction for the Texas Tech University System in Lubbock, TX.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.

               




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  • Event Education-Writing Your Family History SIG

    • Wednesday, May 14, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Virtual via GoToMeeting
    • 15
    Register

    Writing Your Family History SIG

    Facilitator - Carla Maitland

    Join us for four workshops this year in our GoToMeeting platform as we meet together, face-to-face, and discuss, share, and critique each other’s family history writing. Whether you choose journals, blogs, newsletters, books, or some other form of writing, we can all use the input of others. These sessions will be led by a facilitator, who will not directly teach, but who will guide the discussions, ensuring the involvement of everyone. Bring your pen, pencil, computer or whatever you use to write, and join the sessions with ideas to share with others as well! 

    These sessions are currently scheduled for one Wednesday morning every three months at 10:00 a.m. (CST), and will last approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours each session. YOU MUST REGISTER FOR EACH DATE SEPARATELY!


    Session 2-Wednesday May 14, 2025

    Session 3-Wednesday Aug 20, 2025

    Session 4-Wednesday Nov 12, 2025



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  • Event Education-Let's Discuss It!

    • Saturday, May 17, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via Webinar
    • 491
    Register

    Let's Discuss It! by John Ware

    Join our popular discussion group and learn what is trending in Genealogy. John Ware will examine the latest websites, software programs, technologies and tools.

    County Corner:  Lewis, Lincoln and Moore Counties

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Translating, Transcribing and Summarizing Documents Using AI

    • Wednesday, May 21, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 476
    Register

    Translating, Transcribing and Summarizing Documents

    Using AI by Thomas MacEntee

    The power of artificial intelligence can be used to assist genealogists in translating, transcribing, and summarizing a variety of genealogy records. A handwritten baptismal record from the 1800s? No problem. A faded newspaper obituary? No problem. Most AI platforms can help generate useful content for genealogical research.

    Thomas MacEntee: author, educator, student, advocate, marketer, storyteller, entrepreneur, and that “genealogy guy” who helps you accomplish your family history goals. Having taught over 1,000 in-person and virtual genealogy lectures since 2010, serving on the boards of many genealogical societies, organizing a group of over 1,000 genealogy bloggers, and helping researchers save money on genealogy products and services, Thomas is ready for the next chapter in his professional journey: changing the way genealogists acquire new research skills, motivating researchers to take a chance on new technologies, and improving how family stories and heirlooms are preserved and passed on to the next generations.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.

               


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  • Event Education-Researching Ancestors in Delaware

    • Wednesday, June 04, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 490
    Register

    Researching Ancestors in Delaware

    by Irene Monley

    Though small in size, Delaware has rich history going back to before the 1600s. It also has very good resources for genealogists. This fast-paced program will touch on the state’s 400+-year history,  geography, people, and where to find records, so that you can create your own roadmap for finding your ancestors in Delaware.

    Born and raised in New Jersey, Irene has lived in Delaware for more than 35 years. Her genealogy journey began about ten years ago and led her to the Delaware Genealogical Society, of which she is a past president. She was editor of the Delaware Genealogical Research Guide and authored the recent updated ‘Delaware Research Guide’ in Family Tree Magazine. She enjoys helping people discover their family history.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Rising From the Ashes: Strategies from Overcoming Record Loss

    • Wednesday, June 18, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 485
    Register

    Rising From the Ashes: Strategies from Overcoming Record Loss by Jennifer Roodzant

    Did you know over six-hundred counties and parishes within the United States have experienced record losses? Jennifer will demonstrate techniques to advance research objectives while working within a burned county. She will present examples of the methodology used to work around the destruction of sources.

    Jennifer Roodzant is a professional genealogist and speaker specializing in DNA and Southern U.S. research. She is a former secretary for the Napa Valley Genealogy Society and is a certificate-holder in Genealogical Research from Boston University and ProGen Study Groups. Jennifer applies the genealogy standards to resolve complex research objectives.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Let's Discuss It!

    • Saturday, June 28, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 491
    Register

    Let's Discuss It! by John Ware

    Join our popular discussion group and learn what is trending in Genealogy. John Ware will examine the latest websites, software programs, technologies and tools.

    County Corner: Greene, Hamblen and Jefferson Counties

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-History of Memphis Music

    • Wednesday, July 09, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebiner
    • 495
    Register

    History of Memphis Music by Willy Bearden

    Memphis is at the center of much of what we know as our American cultural history. Music that has its roots in Memphis is the bedrock of Blues, Rock and Roll, Gospel, and Jazz. From BB King to Elvis, from Memphis Minnie and Otis Redding to Neil Diamond, to Justin Timberlake, Al Green, and the Box Tops, each has played a part in the world's favorite music. There's a reason why everyone sings like they're from Memphis.

    Willy Bearden is a writer and filmmaker. His work is seen on Public TV and in many museums throughout the region. He has written five books, Overton Park, Elmwood Cemetery, The Story of Cotton, Memphis Blues, and a memoir, Mississippi Hippie: A Life in 49 Pieces. He is the recipient of the Paul Coppock Award for Contributions to West Tennessee History and the Distinguished Achievement Award in the Creative and Performing Arts by the University of Memphis. He was raised in Rolling Fork, Mississippi in the Deep Delta.

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  • Event Education-"The Biggs Machine"

    • Saturday, July 12, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 494
    Register

    "The Biggs Machine" by Tyler Boyd

    For the first half of the 20th Century in Polk County, Tennessee, Sheriff Burch Biggs reigned supreme. From 1904 to 1948, the political machine of Biggs was built upon three pillars—election fraud, police brutality, and graft—and while it is true that Biggs was not the first (or last) American sheriff to permit “fee-grabbing”, take kickbacks, or stuff the ballot box, the duration and brutality of his tenure makes him exceptional. Biggs was elected sheriff eight times, and when he was out of office, one of his two sons served in his place. The Biggs Machine tells the story of Burch Biggs, his corrupt empire, and how it all came crashing down following World War II. Extensively researched, including interviews with Polk Countians who lived during the Biggs regime, The Biggs Machine presents the true story of how “absolute power corrupts absolutely”, and a cautionary tale to prevent history from repeating itself.

    Tyler L. Boyd is an author, historian, and educator from Athens, TN. He works for McMinn Co. Schools. He serves as president of the McMinn Co. Historical Society, secretary of the McMinn Co. Library Board, Programs Committee member at the McMinn Co. Living Heritage Museum, and serves on the board of the Polk County Historical and Genealogical Society. He is also a member of the Hiwassee Chapter SAR. His first book, Tennessee Statesman Harry T. Burn, won several awards, including the East Tennessee Historical Society's Award of Distinction and the DAR's Historic Preservation Award. His second book, Nellie Kenyon: Trailblazing Tennessee Journalist, won the Project Excellence Award from the East Tennessee Historical Society. Today, he will be discussing his newest book, The Biggs Machine: Old Time Politics in Polk County, Tennessee, which is, in a lot of ways, a sequel to the Battle of Athens.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Who Lives Next Door?

    • Wednesday, July 16, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 492
    Register

    Who Lives Next Door? by Cari Taplin

    By researching our ancestors’ Friends, Associates and Neighbors (their “FAN club”) we can learn a lot more about their lives and break down brick walls that we may have been working on for quite some time. In this lecture, Cari Taplin will explain the FAN club principle or cluster genealogy, as set forth by Elizabeth Shown Mills and adopted by many genealogical researchers. Cari will give several case study examples of how this method of researching can take your research to the next level, place your ancestors in context to the social history.

    Cari A. Taplin is related to Roy Rogers. Or at least that’s what her family told her. As a result, finding her true heritage has been her focus since the year 2000. She is a native of Wood County, Ohio but now lives in Longmont, Colorado. Cari holds the Certified Genealogist® credential and has served in a wide variety of volunteer and leadership positions for state, local, and national societies. As the owner of GenealogyPANTS, she provides speaking services. She also lends help and shares her expertise as an administrator on the highly popular Facebook Group “The Genealogy Squad.” Cari currently works for Ancestry ProGenealogists. Cari’s personal research focuses on midwestern and Great Lakes states. When she’s not working on her genealogy, she is a wife, and a mother of two young adults.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.

               

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  • Event Education-The ABC's and 123's of Researching Your Ancestor's School Records

    • Saturday, July 19, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 489
    Register

    The ABC's and 123's of Researching Your Ancestor's School Records by Melissa Barker

    The records of local public schools and universities can be valuable resources for finding information about your ancestors.  Even if your ancestors didn't attend school, you would be surprised by what you can find in school records about them.  This webinar will show you what types of school records there are and how to find them in repositories.

    Melissa Barker is a Certified Archives Manager and Public Historian currently working at the Houston County, Tennessee Archives. She is affectionally known as The Archive Lady to the genealogy community. She lectures, teaches, and writes about the genealogy research process, researching in archives and records preservation. She conducts virtual presentations across the United States and other countries for various genealogy groups and societies. She writes a popular blog entitled A Genealogist in the Archives and is a well-known published book reviewer. She has been a Professional Genealogist for the past 20 years with expertise in Tennessee records. She has been researching her own family history for the past 34 years.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Let's Discuss It!

    • Saturday, July 26, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 493
    Register

    Let's Discuss It! by John Ware

    Join our popular discussion group and learn what is trending in Genealogy. John Ware will examine the latest websites, software programs, technologies and tools.

    County Corner: Pickett, Rutherford and Smith Counties

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Creating an Ancestor Sketch

    • Wednesday, July 30, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 474
    Register

    Creating an Ancestor Sketch by Thomas MacEntee

    Face it: most genealogists never get around to publishing that family history book based on their genealogy research. How about a different approach: producing short 3-5 page “sketches” about an ancestor? You’ll learn how to include a cover, photos, facts, family stories, source citations and more! And guess what, once you get a few of these these ancestor sketches done, you can compile them together for one big book!

    Thomas is a nationally known speaker on the genealogy circuit, familiar to many through over 80 webinars at Legacy Family Tree Webinars and lectures at national conferences. Typically, he presents close to 100 lectures each year and has done so since 2010.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.

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  • Event Education-Genealogy Tips

    • Saturday, August 16, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 490
    Register

    Genealogy Tips by Tina Sansone

    Come learn tips I have learned along my genealogical journey over the last 10+ years. I hope we have time for you to share your tips as well.

    Tina Sansone is a professional genealogist who loves to research, lecture and do DNA analysis. Tina is a co-owner  of Past & Present Pathways. She is currently on the board of the TN Genealogical Society serving as Director of their Certificate Program. She is the Registrar for her DAR Chapter. She is a member of several lineage societies and volunteers as time permits. She currently lives in MS and is a mother and grandmother and owner of 4 cats. 

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.

               


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  • Event Education-Let's Discuss It!

    • Saturday, August 23, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via Webinar
    • 493
    Register

    Let's Discuss It! by John Ware

    Join our popular discussion group and learn what is trending in Genealogy. John Ware will examine the latest websites, software programs, technologies and tools.

    County Corner:  McMinn, Macon and Meigs Counties

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-AI and Genealogy

    • Saturday, September 06, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via Webinar
    • 491
    Register

    AI & Genealogy by Merle Ilgenfritz

    This presentation will explore how the Artificial Intelligence technology is providing new tools for genealogical researchers and how to use them.

    Merle Ilgenfritz is a computer consultant that has been teaching corporations for over 30 years. His hobbies are computer based genealogy and DNA based research. He has been researching his roots for almost 50 years.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Using Funeral Programs to Inform Genealogy Research

    • Wednesday, September 17, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 490
    Register

    Using Funeral Programs to Inform Genealogy

    by Renate Sanders

    Funeral Programs are often rich with genealogical information. In this talk, the presenter will dissect the commonly used elements funeral programs and model how to extract important genealogical information and clues. By analyzing the details found in these often overlooked documents, researchers can uncover hidden connections, confirm relationships, and enrich their family narratives with personal touches.

    Renate Yarborough Sanders, a widely recognized genealogist and educator, is the descendant of formerly enslaved ancestors, enslavers, and free people of color. She authors two blogs and maintains an online funeral program database. Renate has a wide-spread and influential presence in the genealogy community, providing genealogy education for national, state and local conferences, employee groups, and for institutions of higher learning. Renate lectures on a variety of topics but specializes in teaching research methodology and specific techniques and resources for researching ancestors of color. She provides coaching and consultation services for individuals seeking guidance with genealogical research and continues to eagerly engage in project work for various institutions and entities. 

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.
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  • Event Education-Let's Discuss It!

    • Saturday, September 27, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 494
    Register

    Let's Discuss It! by John Ware

    Join our popular discussion group and learn what is trending in Genealogy. John Ware will examine the latest websites, software programs, technologies and tools.

    County Corner: Sumner, Trousdale and Van Buren Counties

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Ukrainian Genealogy

    • Wednesday, October 01, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 496
    Register

    Ukrainian Genealogy by Michelle Tucker Chubenko

    Learn which records are available to assist you in determining your Eastern European ancestor's home village and their emigration to the United States.  Discover the resources for Ukrainian genealogy using regional resources and online tools. Examples of many different types of records and their importance, both from North American and from Europe, will be discussed.

    Michelle Tucker Chubenko, AG®, is the International Research Team Manager and professional genealogist with Legacy Tree Genealogists. She is accredited in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States through the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) and specializes in New Jersey and Eastern European research. Michelle is a founding member with the “Nashi Predky/Our Ancestors” Family History Group at the Ukrainian History and Education Center (Somerset, New Jersey) and in 2023, coordinated the institute course Researching Your Ancestry in the Crownland of Galicia, Austria-Hungary. Since 2021, she has hosted a monthly Q&A Zoom session Have Questions? Get Answers for Research in Galicia.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-German Genealogy on the Internet:Beyond the Basics

    • Wednesday, October 08, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 498
    Register

    GERMAN GENEALOGY ON THE INTERNET: BEYOND THE BASICS BY DR. MICHAEL LACOPO

    The Internet age has brought genealogy to our fingertips over the last three decades, and we can find our German ancestors easier. But it still takes some digging and know-how to find our elusive Germans. This lecture will discuss some online sites that all German genealogists should know. American sites will be covered, but a strong concentration on lesser-used German sites will be discussed, as we are missing vital clues by not being truly “international” in our Internet research endeavors!

    Dr. Lacopo has spent decades building the expertise and resources needed to build solid, reliable information on family history and genealogy. Let his experience help bring you closer to a more complete family heritage.

    Michael is proficient in reading German script and has a particular interest in immigrant ancestry-finding the clues that link our ancestors records across the Atlantic.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Let's Discuss It!

    • Saturday, October 25, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 494
    Register

    Let's Discuss It! by John Ware

    Join our popular discussion group and learn what is trending in Genealogy. John Ware will examine the latest websites, software programs, technologies and tools.

    County Corner: Monroe, Morgan and Rhea Counties

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Memento Mori: Records of the Dead and Dying

    • Wednesday, October 29, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 491
    Register

    Memento Mori: Records of the Dead and Dying

    by Jennifer Roodzant

    The dead and dying create evidence from information items within a source and correlate them to test the evidence and prove and ancestor’s identity in the cemetery. Jennifer will demonstrate how to locate record sets and considerations such as evidence analysis and conflict resolution. Learn what records collections to search to answer your research question about the dead.

    Jennifer Roodzant is a professional genealogist and speaker specializing in DNA and Southern U.S. research. She is a former secretary for the Napa Valley Genealogy Society and is a certificate-holder in Genealogical Research from Boston University and ProGen Study Groups. Jennifer applies the genealogy standards to resolve complex research objectives.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.
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  • Event Education-Tracking Our Ancestors: From VA to NC, TN & Beyond

    • Wednesday, November 19, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 485
    Register

      Tracking Our Ancestors: From Virginia to North Carolina,              Tennessee and Beyond By Barbara Vines Little

    They traveled by foot, horseback, wagon, and water as they moved ever searching for new and better land and lives. Tracking them takes perseverance, tenacity, and sometimes luck. But above all it requires employing a proven methodology. We’ll explore the techniques proven to most likely provide results as we follow our ancestors’ trail.

    Barbara Vines Little is a professional genealogist since 1982, specializing in Virginia record sources, land platting, neighborhood reconstruction and tax records; complete genealogies and problem-solving; lectures at national and regional conferences and conducts all-day workshops; editor, Magazine of Virginia Genealogy and NGS Research in the States series; Library of Virginia board member, former president, National Genealogical Society and the Virginia Genealogical Society; former course coordinator and instructor, IGHR, SLIG, GRIP; former editor Virginia Genealogical Society Newsletter and the Mid-Atlantic Germanic Society; published three volumes of Virginia court records and edited others for publication.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Let's Discuss It!

    • Saturday, December 06, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 494
    Register

    Let's Discuss It! by John Ware

    Join our popular discussion group and learn what is trending in Genealogy. John Ware will examine the latest websites, software programs, technologies and tools.

    County Corner: White, Wilson. Sevier, Sullivan and Union Counties

    John is a retired Pharmaceutical Research Chemist and Project Systems Analyst. John has been married for over 49 years to his high school sweetheart and they have two children and two grandchildren. He began family research in the 60’s Investigating both his adopted and biological lines. He is a member of several genealogical societies. He has served as a board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society in several capacities and is the current Director of Education.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.


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  • Event Education-Exploring Your DNA with the GEDMatch.com Tools

    • Saturday, December 13, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Virtual via GoToWebinar
    • 488
    Register

    Exploring your DNA with the GEDMatch.com Tools

    by Merle Ilgenfritz

    This presentation will explore how to use GedMatch which is a collection of DNA tools which are free to use online.

    Merle Ilgenfritz is a computer consultant that has been teaching corporations for over 30 years. His hobbies are computer based genealogy and DNA based research. He has been researching his roots for almost 50 years.

    Access will be through GoToWebinar.  Instructions and Connectivity Link will be forwarded via email to all registrants upon registration, six days prior and again 1 hour prior to the event.  Making the connection is quick and easy only requiring a computer and Internet connectivity from wherever you chose to watch the event. Your questions help drive the meetings, and we will be there to help each other.





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