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Genealogical Skills Bootcamp

Research Tour
In Person
February 20 - 22, 2025
Early Bird Discount Through 12/31/24
American Ancestors Research Center, 97 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116
David Allen Lambert
Rhonda R. McClure
Melanie McComb
Member Discount

Take your research skills to the next level! With the sheer number of online resources at your fingertips, it's easy to dive in to your family history research without any formal training as a genealogist. This intensive three-day program will set you on the right path to getting the most out of your family history research and teach you how to tackle genealogical problems like a pro. Topics include: strategies for analyzing records, online research, breaking down genealogical brick walls, and more.

PROGRAM INCLUDES:

  • In-depth lectures and hands-on activities
  • Two 30-minute consultations with expert genealogists (one virtual pre-tour consultation, one on-tour consultation)
  • Resource packet with detailed handouts, exercises, and articles
  • Group meals (daily breakfast, opening reception, and closing luncheon)
  • Certificate of completion
  • Pre-program preparatory webinar and resources

Schedule

Thursday, February 20: The Basics

9:00 a.m.Check in, refreshments
9:30 a.m.Introductions
10:00 a.m.Genealogy 101, presented by David Allen Lambert
11:30 a.m.Sources, presented by David Allen Lambert
12:30 p.m.Lunch (on your own)
1:30 p.m.Tour of the American Ancestors Research Center
2:00-6:00 p.m.Personal Research
6:00 p.m.Reception

Friday, February 21: Breaking Down Genealogical Brick Walls

9:00 a.m.Refreshments
9:30 a.m.Analysis, presented by Melanie McComb
11:00 a.m.F.A.N. Approach, presented by Melanie McComb
12:30 p.m.Lunch (on your own)
1:30-6:00 p.m.Personal Research

Saturday, February 22: Getting the Most Out of Online Research

9:00 a.m.Refreshments
9:30 a.m.General Best Practices and Tips for FamilySearch, Ancestry, and American Ancestors
11:00 a.m.Using Google for Genealogical Research
12:00 p.m.Lunch (provided) and Graduation Ceremony
1:30-6:00 p.m.Personal Research
Learning & Interpretation
David Allen Lambert
Military Records
New England
Eastern Canada
Areas of expertise: New England and Atlantic Canadian records of the 17th through 21st century; American and international military records; DNA research; and Native American and African American genealogical research in New England. 
Learning & Interpretation
Rhonda R. McClure
Immigration and Naturalization
Genealogical Software
French-Canada
Areas of expertise: Immigration and naturalization, late 19th and early 20th century urban research, missionaries.
Learning & Interpretation
Melanie McComb
DNA
Ireland
Eastern Canada
Areas of expertise: Irish genealogy, DNA, Atlantic Canada, Jewish genealogy, and military records.
American Ancestors Research Center

42.351754764476, -71.0751925