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Catalog of Lectures

Lecture
US - Migrations
17th Century
18th Century
19th Century
20th Century
Basics of Genealogy

Mapping Ancestors on the Move

From tracing ancestors on the move to understanding boundary changes to just becoming acquainted with the landscape of your ancestors' lives, maps are an incredibly important resource in your family history research. In this lecture, we will explore various ways in which maps can help broaden your genealogical horizons.

Lecture
Organization and Writing

Organizing and Preserving Your Family Papers

Do you have boxes of family papers, photographs, and letters in your basement or attic? Learn how to organize and preserve these important family heirlooms for generations to come. In this lecture, our presenter will demonstrate how to apply techniques used by the American Ancestors archive to your own collection.

Lecture
Basics of Genealogy

Getting Started in Genealogy

This program introduces the participants to the genealogical research process and the tools and techniques that support the research. The first part of the lecture introduces key genealogical tools such as the multi-generational chart, family group sheet, and the research log. Participants also learn how to create a solid research plan.  The second part of the lecture introduces the range of records and documents that genealogists use in the course of research.  Census, vital, and immigration records are highlighted. By the end of the program, participants will understand the most important types of records used in genealogical research and the strengths and weaknesses of each. 

Lecture
Basics of Genealogy
Organization and Writing
Records and Research

Organizing Your Research

With all of the genealogical information at your fingertips today, it’s easy to become overwhelmed, go down research rabbit holes, and lose focus. In this first class, our genealogist will offer tips on how to make a research plan and stick to it! Using templates, worksheets, and other research tools available at AmericanAncestors.org, you’ll learn how to stay organized and get the most out of your research time. 

Lecture
Basics of Genealogy
Organization and Writing
Records and Research

How to Progress from Inherited Research

Not sure what to do with that box of your great-aunt's research? Have you received binders of your parents' genealogy throughout the years? In this lecture, our genealogist will go over tips for sorting through inherited research—discussing how genealogical standards have shifted over time, assessing the credibility of the research, and organizing and preserving the materials.

Lecture
US - Midwestern States
Records and Research

Pennsylvania Genealogy: Go-To Published Resources

Many family historians’ genealogical journey takes them to Pennsylvania. Since its founding, Pennsylvania has seen countless waves immigrants settle within its borders. Luckily, there are many published resources that can assist in our research. In this lecture, we will share go-to Pennsylvania-based resources within five categories: History, Immigration, Record Compilations, Genealogies, and Land. Learn about essential published sources that help trace Pennsylvanian ancestors through time and place.

Lecture
Records and Research

Resources for Pennsylvania Genealogy

Pennsylvania has played a significant role in America’s history. Lucky for those with ancestral ties to the Keystone State, there is a wealth of information available to researchers, ranging from the seventeenth century to present day. In this lecture, we will provide an overview of what resources exist, what information is recorded, and how to access those materials.

Lecture
US - New England
Records and Research

A Guide to Connecticut Resources

Connecticut has a wealth of information available to researchers, ranging from the seventeenth-century to present day. Learn what resources are available, while gaining valuable research tips.

Lecture
US - New England
17th Century
18th Century

A Brief History of Colonial Wars in New England 

This lecture will discuss how to determine if your ancestor fought, review a veritable timeline of colonial wars in New England, Atlantic Canada, and Quebec during the 17th and 18th centuries, and provide the historical context for these conflicts. 

Lecture
US - New England
17th Century
18th Century
19th Century
20th Century
Records and Research

Boston Research and Records

Since its founding in 1630, the City of Boston has kept records pertaining to its citizens, including several unique resources. Join us to learn what records exist for Boston, tips for using them in your research, and where to find them. Special attention will be given to records from the 17th through 19th centuries.