A day with experts, dedicated to all things genealogy. $8.

9-10:15am: “Complex Evidence: Untangling Multiple, Same-Name Individuals” presented by Judith Herbert, Certified Genealogist®

You’ve found a John Smith in your ancestry and the question becomes, “Which of the possible John Smiths is my John Smith?” The lecture will provide tools and techniques for separating persons of the same name in an area, to ensure that researchers are locking on to the correct individual. Strategies for planning and conducting a surname study will be covered, as well tips for making sure all possible sources have been consulted, which could help to identify the right John Smith.

10:15-11:30am: “Patching Families Together Through Land Records” presented by Tina Post

When genealogists hit brick walls it’s not fun. Land records can provide the clues necessary to put stymied research on track again. This presentation will provide examples of how relationships can be gleaned using deeds, bounty lands and land grants. In addition, platting will be discussed as a means of creating more leads to investigate.

11:30-12:45am: “Gravestone Conservation for the Genealogist” presented by Christopher White

Have you ever seen that unreadable gravestone or that toppled monument and wondered what can I do to address its condition? There is a correct way and a wrong way to remedy that gravestone.
Christopher White, a genealogist, historian, and gravestone conservator, will present a program on gravestone conservation including cleaning, repair, what to do, what not to do, when to do nothing, and when to seek a professional conservator.

12:45-2pm: Research in the Library