Search results: 204
Note: This course requires compulsory materials to be ordered.
The Book, “Genealogy in Ontario: Searching the Records” by Brenda Douglas Merriman is available at GenealogyStore.com
Optional Print Course Material: Research: Ontario Ancestors
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This eight-module course is based on a compulsory book written by Brenda Dougall Merriman, Genealogy in Ontario: Searching the Records (30th Anniversary edition, 2013 or 4th edition, 2008). Earlier editions of Genealogy in Ontario (1984, 1988, 1992 and 2004) do not apply, especially with regard to updates and page number references.
The bulk of the course reading material is found in Genealogy in Ontario. You will be given specific chapters for each module’s required reading and assignments. Each module will also have some extra additions or explanations. Students will learn about basic genealogical sources for this province, as well as how to find and evaluate them.
NOTE: Genealogy in Ontario was written for both beginners and more advanced researchers. For this course, we are not expecting you to learn or understand more than the fundamental sources and good research habits.
Hundreds of thousands of immigrants entered the province of Ontario (formerly Upper Canada and then Canada West) from the late eighteenth century to the twenty-first century. It has been a major arrival point, or destination, for arrivals, at first from the British Isles and the United States, and then from continental Europe and beyond. Of course, numerous families stayed for generations, but others moved on after a generation or so—countless descendants are seeking their first North American roots here. A rich mass of resources awaits the family historian new to this locale. A great deal of documentation the collections at Library and Archives Canada (LAC) in Ottawa and the Archives of Ontario (AO) in Toronto, but both centres are constantly adding online descriptions, finding aids, and searchable databases.
Course Length: 9 weeks
MODULE 1
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
Sources
Information
Evidence
“In writing” …
The Internet
Citing Documents and Research Sources
Ethics
Major Resource Centres
MODULE 2
INTRODUCTION TO ONTARIO
Maps
Location
More Maps
Books
Newspapers
MODULE 3
VITAL RECORDS
“Missing” Records
Tips
Ancestry
Ontario Vital Statistics Project
Registrar General of Ontario
Funeral Homes
Adoption
MODULE 4
RELIGIOUS RECORDS
Cemeteries
Family Bibles
Early Churches
Denominations and Archives: Catholic and Anglican
Wesleyan Methodist Baptismal Records
County Marriage Registers
MODULE 5
CENSUS RETURNS
1851
1861
1871
1881
1891
1901 and 1911
Other Census Years
1940 National Registration
MODULE 6
LAND RECORDS
Locating Property Descriptions
Land Granting Process
Ontario Land Records Index
OLRI – AO Research Guides
Township Papers
Land Registration
Tips (Land Registration)
MODULE 7
COURT RECORDS
Court of Probate - Pre-1859 Surrogate Courts
Tip - Pre-1859 Files
Wills
Related Documents
Non-Probated Wills
MODULE 8
REVIEW & FINAL ASSIGNMENTS
Sample Assignment
Recommended Reading & Resources
Optional Print Course Material: Research: U.S. Great Lakes Ancestors, 211 pages.
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
The Great Lakes region of the United States is an area with a rich and diverse history. This course will focus on generalized and locality specific resources for six states in this area―Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin. These six states once formed, in part, the first possession of the United States known as the “Northwest Territory.” A summary of each state’s history and geography will be provided, as well as tips on where to find important genealogical resources (such as census, land, probate, and vital records). A brief discussion of important Canadian records and suggestions for advanced research techniques will also be included.
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Abbreviations
What are the “Great Lakes”?
Brief Historical Synopsis
General Research Methodology
Source/Data Worksheets for Documenting & Organizing Information
Course Organization
MODULE 2
ILLINOIS
Illinois Research
Brief History
Largest Cities
Vital Records
Religion
Ethnic Groups
Migration Patterns
Immigration & Naturalization
Courts
Land, Maps & Taxes
Census Records
Military Records
Major Finding Aids & Repositories
Newspapers
MODULE 3
INDIANA
Indiana Research
Brief History
Largest Cities
General Resources
Vital Records
Religion
Ethnic Groups
Migration Patterns
Immigration & Naturalization
Probate & Court Records
Land Records
Census Records
Military Records
Major Repositories
Newspapers
MODULE 4
MICHIGAN
Michigan Research
Brief History
Largest Cities
Vital Records
Religion
Ethnic Groups
Immigration & Naturalization
Probate & Court Records
Land Records
Census
Military Records
Major Repositories
Newspapers
MODULE 5
MINNESOTA
Minnesota Research
Brief History
Largest Cities
Vital Records
Religion
Ethnic Groups
Immigration & Naturalization
Probate & Court Records
Land Records
Census Records
Military Records
Major Repositories
Newspapers
MODULE 6
OHIO
Ohio Research
Brief History
Largest Cities
Vital Records
Religion
Ethnic Groups
Migration Patterns
Immigration & Naturalization
Probate & Court Records
Land Records
Census Records
Military Records
Major Repositories
Newspapers
MODULE 7
WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Research
Brief History
Largest Cities
Vital Records
Religion
Ethnic Groups
Immigration and Naturalization
Probate & Court Records
Land Records
Census Records
Military Records
Major Repositories
Newspapers
MODULE 8
CANADA
Brief History
Why Research in Canada?
Getting Started
Key Records
APPENDIX
Optional Print Course Material: Research: Grandmothers, Mothers and Daughters - Tracing Women
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Our female ancestors played significant roles in history. Yet,
researching and writing about the women in our families can be a
daunting task. If you have hit a brick wall in the quest to find
information about your female ancestors, this course covers
strategies and key sources to assist you with your research and
show you how to document “her” story.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCHING WOMEN
Introduction
Why are females so difficult to trace?
Guidelines for Researching a Woman’s History
First Steps: Developing a Solid Research Strategy
Start with Home & Family Sources
Keeping Track of Your Data
Family Interviews & Oral History
Five Strategies for Finding Female Ancestors
MODULE 2
LOCATING MAIDEN NAMES IN PUBLIC SOURCES
Introduction
Vital Records
Verify Details with Other Vital Records
Census Records
Immigration & Naturalization Records
Passports & Passport Applications
Naturalization Records
Other Documents
MODULE 3
RESEARCHING SOCIAL HISTORY
Introduction
Learn About the Time Period
Learn Naming Practices & Patterns
Cultural Considerations (Ethnicity, Rituals & Traditions)
Putting Your Female Ancestor in Historical Context with Timelines
Cluster Genealogy
MODULE 4
WOMEN'S LIVES DURING WORLD WAR II
Introduction
Women on the Home Front
The Decision to Join the Fight!
Branches of Service
MODULE 5
TELLING “HER” STORY
Introduction
Writing Prompts
Best Websites for Tracing Female Ancestors
MODULE 6
CASE STUDY
Objective
Previous Research or Knowledge
Facts or Information Provided
Photos & Documents
Optional Print Course Material: Research: New Brunswick Ancestors
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to New Brunswick, Canada and the wealth of genealogical material available for those searching for family roots in this province. The author assumes that you want to move beyond the begats and learn as much as you can about the life and times of the men and women you discover.
To that end we provide an introductory overview of the province, suggest repositories and methodologies for researching available resources, examine early settlement including the Loyalists, touch on vital records (birth, marriage and death), and follow-up with later settlement patterns.
This course assumes the student knows the basics of
genealogical research and has some experience using common
sources such as the census, vital records, church registers, land
and probate documents, as well as a familiarity with forms and
methods of recording family data. It also assumes a basic
knowledge of how to use archives, libraries, and the
Internet.
Course Length: 5 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO NEW BRUNSWICK
Divided We Stand
A Divided Province
A Genealogical Divide
Useful Reference Works
Geography & Water
Townships, Counties & Parishes
Gazetteers & Maps
Transportation & Economics
MODULE 2
RESEARCH REPOSITORIES & RESOURCES
Archives & Repositories
Provincial Archives of New Brunswick
Other New Brunswick Research Centres
Libraries
County Historical Societies & Museums
Repositories Outside the Province
Sources
MODULE 3
EARLY SETTLEMENT
Early Comers
Atlantic Realm
The Acadian Era
Early Census & Related Records
Town Record Books
Types of Settlement
Specific Sources
Library Searches
A Cautionary Tale
Loyalists
RECORDS RELATING TO BIRTH, MARRIAGE & DEATH
Government Vital Records
Church Records
Graveyard & Burial Records
Church Histories
MODULE 4
COLONY TO CANADA
19th & 20th Century Settlements
Other Regions, Other Settlers
Military
MPPs, MLAs, JPs & VIPs
First Jews in New Brunswick
OTHER RECORDS TO SEARCH
Land Records
Court Records
Government of Canada Records
19TH CENTURY DEMOGRAPHICS
Outmigration
Sources
Education & Its Records
Shipbuilding & Shipowners
Riots & Disasters
Optional Print Course Material: Research: Canadian Ancestors
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course is intended as a guide for those who are starting to research their ancestors in Canada. It is a general guide to the records available for those conducting genealogical research in Canadian records for the first time.
Specifically, this course is intended as a guide to researchers living outside of Canada who find that their research journey has led them to the point that they must now enter unfamiliar territory and conduct research in the records of another country, when those records may not follow the patterns with which they are familiar. To that end, each province will be examined individually in order to understand the variations in the records and storage that apply to each province.
Course Length: 6 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO CANADIAN RESEARCH
Introduction
Archives—General Information
Genealogical Societies—General Information
Major Record Collections for Genealogists
Genealogical Websites
Canadian Records
Library and Archives Canada
MODULE 2
PROVINCIAL RECORDS
Alberta
British Columbia
Manitoba
Northwest Territories, Yukon & Nunavut
MODULE 3
PROVINCIAL RECORDS...Continued
Ontario
Québec
MODULE 4
PROVINCIAL RECORDS...Continued
New Brunswick
Newfoundland & Labrador
Nova Scotia
Prince Edward Island
MODULE 5
CASE STUDY
Case Study Outline
Case Study Information
While doing our own genealogical research, we found the techniques presented here assisted us in locating our families and ancestral villages. The purpose of this course is to provide recommendations and suggestions on techniques and methodology to help others succeed in locating their Polish ancestors.
An overview of resources essential to doing Polish research is presented. Emphasis is placed on web resources of Canada and United States that might provide clues to ancestral villages. For researchers lucky enough to discover that microfilm copies of records for their ancestors are available, an overview of translation resources and strategies for easier access to allow them to continue their research even though they are not fluent in the language. If your village in Poland has not been filmed, resources are provided for writing to Poland. The value of utilizing the Family History Library is stressed.
Approximate contact hours to complete this course: 18
Optional Print Course Material: Research: Mayflower Ancestors
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
You have traced your genealogy back to New England and suspect you may have Mayflower ancestry. Or perhaps you have actually traced a family line back to a Mayflower passenger. This course will cover various aspects of conducting Mayflower research and how to properly document the line by utilizing New England original and derivative records as well as sources specific to Mayflower research.
We will first discuss the story of our Pilgrim ancestors and, believe me, their story is a fascinating one! From their religious persecution in England, to their exile in Holland and finally, their voyage to the wilderness of the New World, their determination, courage and abiding faith is an inspiration to us all.
The resources available to you in order to trace back and/or document your existing lineage, whether for your own satisfaction or for membership in the Mayflower Society will be fully explored. We will discuss family genealogies, town histories and New England vital records. There are libraries, societies and family associations you should know about and specific genealogical journals, websites, and social media tools which can make your journey a whole lot easier. We will discuss the role of DNA testing to prove a lineage and you will be provided with a selected reading list so that you may delve more deeply into the historical aspect if you so choose.
If you have ever wondered about the General Society of Mayflower Descendants, with headquarters in Plymouth, Massachusetts and what it’s all about, now is your chance to learn. We will cover its history, its objectives and its accomplishments. The society has definite documentation requirements for membership; these will be detailed as well as how and where to apply for membership.
Course Length: 6 weeks
MODULE 1
WHO WERE THE PILGRIMS? WHY WERE THEY ON THE MAYFLOWER?
Introduction
England
Holland
New England
Passenger List & Those Who Left Descendants
Passengers Who Left Known Descendants
MODULE 2
MAYFLOWER RESEARCH TOOLS & RESOURCES
Introduction
Printed Materials
Family Genealogies
MF and MFIPs
Multi-Family Genealogies
Town Histories
Periodicals & Journals
Original Records
MODULE 3
REPOSITORIES & INTERNET RESOURCES
Repositories
Public Record Offices
Archives
Libraries
Genealogical & Historical Societies
Online Resources
MODULE 4
GENERAL SOCIETY OF MAYFLOWER DESCENDANTS
History of the Mayflower Society
Membership Information
Membership Benefits
Documenting Your Line for Membership
MODULE 5
DID YOU KNOW?
Old Style/New Style Dating
Julian Calendar (Old Style)
Gregorian Calendar (New Style)
Mayflower Family Associations
DNA & Mayflower Research
Benefits to Mayflower Research
Mayflower Research Library
Early Historical Works
Transcribed Records
Pilgrim Biographies & Histories
Pilgrims
Early New England Settlers, 1600s-1800s
This course is an excellent introduction to the confusing and
often complex history of the Acadians in Canada. Beginning with
the arrival of the Acadians into the Maritime region, the power
struggles between the British and the French, the expulsion of
the Acadians in 1755 and 1758, the different areas within the
world they settled and finally their return from exile. This is a
very good starting point for anyone with an Acadian background or
with an interest in the area.
WEEK 1
INTRODUCTION
Historical Dates
Map of Ancestral Counties in France
Map of New France & Lacadie
Map of Old North American Territory of New France 1760
Map of the New Acquisitions of U.S. 1783
New Map of Canada 2000 & Governmental Information
EARLY HISTORY, THE BEGINNING, 1604
Thus began the Acadian Community
Passenger list of the St. Jehan, which sailed for Acadia on April, 1636
Found in The Port Royal Records
Records from Beaubassin and Rivières aux Mines 1679-1686
THE HUGUENOTS INFLUENCE IN ACADIA
Huguenots History
Return of the Acadians & the Jacques Robin Co.
WEEK 2
THE ACADIANS
The Social Structure
The Acadian Homes
Pictures of Acadians
Map of Nova Scotia (Acadia), Ile-Saint-Jean, Prince Edward Island & Ile-Royal (Cape Breton Island)
Map of Ile-Saint-Jean, Prince Edward Island
Map of Fortress Louisbourg
WEEK 3
THE ACADIAN PEOPLE & THE EXPULSIONS 1755 & 1758
The Expulsion of 1755
The Ports of The Arrivals
Map of Belle-Ile-en-Mer
Map of Belle-Ile Parishes
The Expulsion of 1758
Isle Royal (or) Ile Royal, Cape Breton Island
Isle Saint-Jean or Ile Saint-Jean
The Events Leading to the Expulsion of 1758
WEEK 4
THE FRENCH CITIZENS OF FRANCE & ACADIAN EXILES RETURNED TO FRANCE
Map of the French Ports & the Settlements
Map of French Guiana
Map of Alsace-Lorraine
Map of Poitier & Chatellerault France
Map of the Acadian Settlement at Archigny
Map of the French colonies in the West Indies
Map of former French Island of Jersey
Map of Island of Jersey (Parishes)
Map of the English Channel Islands & Ports
Map of Falkland Islands & Montevideo, Uruguay
WEEK 5
LOUISIANA
The Early Years
Map of Present State of Louisiana
Map of Old Louisiana Territory & llinois County
1763 Old Map of Spanish Louisiana
Map of the Louisiana State Parishes
Louisiana Territory Under The French
The ships that arrived
Parish of Iberville 1808 to 1812
St. Martinville & St. Martin Parish
Pointe Coupée Vendor & Vendée 1769-1772
Louisiana Culture
The French Royalists Refugees Arrive in Louisiana 1797
Map of the Acadian Settlement at St. Gabriel’s Parish
Map of Louisiana State with Parishes
Old St. Gabriel Church Iberville
St. Gabriel Church Parish - 1806 Document
Early Louisiana Industry
WEEK 6
THE ACADIANS RETURN TO AMERICA
Iles-de-la-Madeleine or Magdalen Islands
Acadian Places - Name Change
Manchac 1799 Survey of Simon Daigres’ Land Louisiana
Passengers from the Ship: El Nuestra Senora Carmen
Passengers on the Ship The Lydia in 1788
Acadians Records
Louisiana Records
More Acadian Records
French Guiana Records
Societies
Optional Print Course Material: Research: U.S. Midwestern States Ancestors
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course is designed to give students a basic understanding of some of the historical events that occurred in each state, especially events that shaped the state’s history, boundaries, laws, records and other items. The states included in this course were all part of the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, which were: Arkansas, Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Each state is unique in its geographical formation, social attitudes, political structure, ethnicity, industry and historical records. The modules included are aimed at giving researchers information to aid understanding of these states individually and to provide tools for researching family history, not only in terms of the individual, but also in their broader social context.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Introduction to Midwestern States Research
Bibliography & Resources for Further Study
ARKANSAS
Early History & Important Events
Government Structure
Court Records
Immigration Trends
Major Industry & Agriculture
Land, Maps and Taxes
Major Transportation Routes
Wars and Military Records
Vital Records
Church Records
Newspapers
Census
Major Finding Aids & Repositories
MODULE 2
OKLAHOMA
Early History & Important Events
Government Structure
Court Records
Immigration Trends
Major Industry and Agriculture
Land, Maps and Taxes
Major Transportation Routes
Wars and Military Records
Vital Records
Church Records
Newspapers
Census
Major Finding Aids and Repositories
MODULE 3
IOWA
Early History and Important Events
Government Structure
Court Records
Immigration Trends
Major Industry and Agriculture
Land, Maps and Taxes
Major Transportation Routes
Wars and Military Records
Vital Records
Church Records
Newspapers
Census
Major Archives and Repositories
MODULE 4
MISSOURI
Early History and Important Events
Government Structure
Court Records
Immigration Trends
Major Industry and Agriculture
Land, Maps and Taxes
Major Transportation Routes
Wars and Military Records
Vital Records
Church Records
Newspapers
Census
Major Finding Aids and Repositories
MODULE 5
NEBRASKA
Early History and Important Events
Government Structure
Court Records
Immigration Trends
Major Industry and Agriculture
Land, Maps and Taxes
Major Transportation Routes
Wars and Military Records
Vital Records
Church Records
Newspapers
Census
Major Finding Aids and Repositories
KANSAS
Early History and Important Events
Government Structure
Court Records
Immigration Trends
Major Industry and Agriculture
Land, Maps and Taxes
Major Transportation Routes
Wars and Military Records
Vital Records
Church Records
Newspapers
Census
MODULE 6
NORTH DAKOTA
Early History and Important Events
Government Structure
Court Records
Immigration Trends
Major Industry and Agriculture
Land, Maps and Taxes
Major Transportation Routes
Wars and Military Records
Vital Records
Church Records
Newspapers
Census
Major Finding Aids and Repositories
SOUTH DAKOTA
Early History and Important Events
Government Structure
Court Records
Immigration Trends
Major Industry and Agriculture
Land, Maps and Taxes
Major Transportation Routes
Wars and Military Records
Vital Records
Church Records
Newspapers
Census
Major Finding Aids and Repositories
Optional Print Course Material: Personal Historian: Oral History and Interviewing Techniques
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
A personal historian uses oral history interview techniques to
interview individuals about their lives or those of their family.
Combining the interview, research, and additional items like
photographs and documents, a personal historian can create a
beautiful story for a client. This course will discuss the things
you need to know before specializing in oral histories, how to
prepare for and conduct an interview, and what can be done with
all the materials. Finally, we will learn how to put everything
together and preserve these priceless histories.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
GETTING STARTED IN ORAL HISTORIES
Introduction
Establishing the Business Component
Fee Setting
Contracts and Usage Agreements
Oral History Education and Networking
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Additional Resources
MODULE 2
PREPARING FOR THE INTERVIEW
Get To Know the Client
Create an action plan
Things to Consider When Interviewing
Preliminary Interview & Summary
Preliminary Interview Example
Additional Resources
MODULE 3
CONDUCTING THE INTERVIEW
Prior to the Interview
The Day of the Interview
Getting Started and Breaking the Ice
Asking the Questions
Tips for Interviewing
Concluding the Interview
Additional Resources
MODULE 4
SHAPING THE INTERVIEW RESULTS
Why Do We Transcribe & Index Interviews?
Who will Transcribe?
Basics of Transcribing and Indexing
Specifics on Transcribing and Indexing
Editing the Transcript
Additional Resources
MODULE 5
PRODUCTS
Introduction
Oral History Package
Books, Photo books or Scrapbooks
Blogs or Websites
Videos or Audio Recordings
Microsoft Office PowerPoint/Slide Show
Additional Resources
MODULE 6
PRESERVATION AND FINAL THOUGHTS
Introduction
Special Oral History Projects
Preserving the Oral History or Final Product
Continuing Education
Additional Resources
Optional Print Course Material: Research: Child Migration from Britain
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course provides an overview of the history of child migration from Britain and an introduction to the records that can be accessed to research them. Britain has a very long history of exporting children. Child migration from Britain occurred over a period of nearly 350 years through various private and government sponsored emigration schemes.
This course is a good starting point for anyone who knows, or even suspects, that they have a British child migrant ancestor in their family tree. Children were sent to the American Colonies, the West Indies, Australia, Canada, Southern Rhodesia, South Africa and New Zealand. The major recipients of children, based upon numbers, were Canada and Australia.
The course is structured to address research in each of the receiving countries, in Britain and from the sending agencies themselves. The course concludes with a case study which uses a child who migrated to Canada during a time period when child migration to Canada was near its peak.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO CHILD MIGRATION FROM BRITAIN
Introduction
Overview of Child Migration from Britain
Social Conditions
Agencies
Evolution
Children’s Overseas Reception Board (CORB)
The Voyage
Research Strategy
MODULE 2
CANADIAN RESEARCH
Canadian Research Sources
Immigration Records
Government Inspection Reports
Central Registry Files
Closed Files
Library and Archives Canada/British Isles Family History Society of Greater Ottawa Home Child Database
Other Canadian Sources
Records of the First World War - Canadian Expeditionary Force
1940 National Registration
Library and Archives Canada (LAC)
Home Children Canada
MODULE 3
AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND & SOUTHERN RHODESIA RESEARCH
Australian Research Sources
Immigration Records
Passenger Lists
Citizenship Records
Migrant Selection Documents
Other Records
New Zealand Research Sources
Passenger Lists
Births, Deaths and Marriages
Probate Records
Southern Rhodesia Research Sources
Births, Deaths and Marriages
Additional Resources
MODULE 4
BRITISH RESEARCH
British Research Sources
British Ships Passenger Lists
British Poor Law Records
Civil Registration
Census Records
Parish Registers
Probate Records
Electoral Registers
Directories
Additional Resources
MODULE 5
AGENCIES & AGENCY RECORDS
Barnardo’s Homes
Macpherson Homes
Catholic Emigration
Quarriers
Liverpool Sheltering Homes
Middlemore Homes
Maria Rye
National Children’s Home
Fegan’s Homes
Church of England Waifs and Strays Society
Fairbridge Society
Contacting an Agency
MODULE 6
CASE STUDY
History of a Child Migrant
Optional Print Course Material: Writing the Genealogist's Memoir
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
As a genealogy researcher for your family, you can enhance the results of your work, as well as realize personal satisfaction and value, by creating a memoir to enlighten those who read it. Your memoir can tell them about the story behind your research: your inspiration, motivation and/or interest in genealogy; your process; “aha” moments; roadblocks and disappointments; and successes. The professional genealogist or personal historian can also offer a service to help clients create such a companion piece for their family trees or histories.
This course will explore the importance and value of memoir, a method for accomplishing one, and special issues to consider. Exercises will offer practical application of the material and opportunities to work on writing your memoir. The course will focus on writing as a method but will explore other options, such as audio and video, as well.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
THE VALUE OF MEMOIR FOR INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES AND THE CULTURE
Introduction
Course Overview
Glossary
Importance of Telling/Writing Your Story in General
Benefits to the Individual, Family and Culture
Historical Precedents
Memoir for the Genealogist
MODULE 2
PLANNING THE MEMOIR
Types of Life Writing
Definition of Memoir For Purpose of This Course
What a Memoir is Not
What to Include
Who is Your Audience?
Reading Memoirs for Ideas and Inspiration
Media Available for Saving Your Story
An Aside on Commercial Publication
MODULE 3
GATHERING MATERIAL FOR THE MEMOIR
Journaling/Memoir Writing and the Difference
Mind Mapping
Timeline/Defining Moments
Interview/Questions
Freestyle Writing
Recording Into a Device (Audio or Video)
Use of Photographs and Other Prompts
Topics List for the Genealogist’s Memoir
MODULE 4
DEVELOPING THE NARRATIVE
Transcription
Writing
Organizing the Material
Revision and Editing
MODULE 5
ISSUES IN MEMOIR WRITING
Truth In and Disagreement About Memories
Dealing with Uncomfortable Memories
Privacy Considerations
Copyright and Fair Use
Helping a Client to Write a Memoir
MODULE 6
PRODUCING THE FINAL PRODUCT
Methods of Book Production
Formatting the Manuscript
Bibliography
APPENDIX
Optional Print Course Material: Electronic Resources: Organize and Publish a Family Tree
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course is designed to give students a wide view of
genealogical organization systems available. Geared toward making
a sound decision and investment in one’s genealogical software,
this course will include cloud-based systems, online trees,
desktop software, as well as a brief survey of alternative
programs and systems for organizing and displaying genealogical
research.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
OVERVIEW & REVIEW OF TECHNOLOGY
Introduction
Genealogical Software
What is a GEDCOM File?
What is a Wiki?
What is “The Cloud?”
Decide Which is Right for You
Glossary
MODULE 2
GENEALOGY PROGRAMS FOR WINDOWS
Introduction
Family Tree Maker 2019
Legacy Family Tree Deluxe 9.0
RootsMagic 7
Ancestral Quest 16
Family Historian
Glossary
MODULE 3
GENEALOGY PROGRAMS FOR MACINTOSH
Introduction
Family Tree Maker 2019
Reunion
MacFamilyTree
Heredis 2021
Gramps
Running Windows on a Macintosh
Glossary
Suggested Reading
MODULE 4
ORGANIZING YOUR FAMILY TREES ONLINE
Introduction
Privacy Issues
Security Tips
Online Family Tree Websites
Glossary
Suggested Reading
MODULE 5
GENEALOGY MOBILE APPLICATIONS
Introduction
Genealogical Software Companion Apps
Website Companion Apps
Stand-Alone GEDCOM Viewer Apps
Miscellaneous Apps
Glossary
Suggested Reading
MODULE 6
STORING, ORGANIZING, ANALYZING & DISPLAYING RESEARCH PROGRAMS
Introduction
Cloud-Based Systems
Backup Systems
Other Miscellaneous Programs
Spreadsheets
Glossary
Suggested Reading
Optional Print Course Material: Research: British India Ancestors
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course gives an introduction to researching ancestors in India, during the time of British involvement and rule. The course focuses mainly on British ancestors, but includes records that are relevant to other Europeans in India, as well as Anglo-Indians.
In this course, the author will use primary and secondary material to demonstrate how to research ancestors in British India in depth.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
HISTORY OF THE BRITISH IN INDIA
East India Company & Beginnings of British Involvement in India
1857 Indian Mutiny
India Office Records & direct rule from Britain
Rise of Indian nationalism
1947 Independence
Life (and records) from 1948
MODULE 2
MAPS & PLACE NAMES
Changing Borders of ‘British India’
Princely States & other areas beyond direct British control
Variants in spelling & place name changes
Travel to & from India: changes over time
Suez Canal
Passenger Lists
Ship Records
MODULE 3
VITAL EVENTS, CHURCH RECORDS & PROBATE
Online Indexes
Digital Books
Church records (Anglican & non-Anglican)
Civil registration
Christianity in India
Schools & orphanages
Cemeteries
Probate
Probate in India
Probate pre-1727
Probate in the UK
MODULE 4
ARMED FORCES & MERCHANT SEAMAN
East India Company’s Armies
Indian Army
British Army
Indian Navy & Royal Indian Marine/Navy
British Merchant Seamen
Royal Navy
Royal Indian Air Force & Royal Air Force in India
Chaplains, Medical Service (and Subordinate), Veterinary Corps & Bandsmen
Indian Army Nursing Services & Women’s Auxiliary Corps
MODULE 5
OCCUPATIONS
Main occupations of the British in India (outside of the armed forces)
Civil servants: covenanted & uncovenanted (EIC)
India Office & Burma Office
Trade: tea, jute, coffee and other products
Tea Trade
Railways
MODULE 6
MISCELLANEOUS RECORDS
Memoirs, letters & diaries online & in collections around the world
Directories: what exists and what exists online
Newspapers and online databases
Family papers
Other published sources & how to access them
USEFUL ADDRESSES
Archives in the UK
Archives in India
ONLINE INDEXES
General UK Genealogy
British India
TIMELINES
Governors & Viceroys of India
Governors-General of India (1773-1858)
Viceroys of India (1858-1947)
Optional Print Course Material: Personal Historian: Video Techniques
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course is designed to introduce the basics of audio-video production for personal historians and genealogists, that is, people who want to use current digital audio and video tools to record, edit and share life stories. Audio-video productions encompass four phases of work: pre-production, production, post-production and delivery. This course is structured along these four phases.
Students with any level of audio-video experience, including those who are beginners, can learn from this course. There is great depth and variety to the practice of video biography. This course will help you build your skills and savvy.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
AUDIO/VIDEO TECHNIQUES, TOOLS & TIPS
Introduction
Glossary of Terms
PRE-PRODUCTION
Crew and Gearing Up
Managing time & money: budgets, schedules & expectations
Crew: will you work alone or with others?
The right tools for you
Packaging and delivery
Partnerships
Learning opportunities
MODULE 2
PRE-PRODUCTION ... Continued
Prepare for Your Shoot
Gearing up - A brief review
Planning and organizing a specific shoot
Budgeting: money matters
Scheduling: managing your time per project
Location scouting
Story skills: Thinking visually
Research
MODULE 3
PRODUCTION
Your Field Recording, Your Shoot
Lighting - Essential skills
Camera work - Essential skills
Field audio - Essential skills
Interviewing
B-roll explained
How to choose and use the subject’s personal archive
MODULE 4
POST-PRODUCTION - PART 1
Organizing Your Materials After the Shoot
Understanding narrative structure in brief
Practical options for preparing your materials for edit
Practical options for organizing your story
MODULE 5
POST-PRODUCTION - PART 2
Editing & Composing Your Materials After the Shoot
Editing video
Editing audio
Graphics
Rights and permissions - your legal responsibilities
Rough cuts & fine cuts
MODULE 6
DELIVERY
Outputting Your Story & Reaching Your Audience
Additional audiences - use your work to generate more
Communities
Speaking opportunities
Organize client-centered screening events
Create a web presence
Encourage word of mouth
Leverage local media
Optional Print Course Material:Research: Social History
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This introduction to social history will provide examples and resources of subject matter from many areas of interest to the social historian. Rather than being a comprehensive discussion of social history, the material is intended to inspire your research into the lives of your people and the times and places they lived in. Your ancestors, their families, and the society they lived in may be different from the examples given but only by researching the specifics of their lives, their communities, the world around them and the forces and influences that shaped their environment can you begin to know who they were.
NOTE: Assignments in this course will require the student to do social history research on the Internet and/or at a local library. How in-depth the research will be, depends on the student’s own personal interest on the subject.
Course Length: 8 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL HISTORY
Introduction
Course Overview
Resources
Understanding Current Events: Historic Newspapers
Understanding the Period: Historical Books
Understanding Society: Magazines and Journals
Historical Directories
Research Papers, Reports and Statistics
Contemporary letters and diaries
Libraries, archives, museums and collections
Maps, illustrations, photographs, paintings, film
Interviewing and oral history
Records and documents
How to Record and Share Social History
Genealogy Software
Blogging
Online story sharing
Self-publishing: Print on demand and eBook
YouTube and Vimeo
Suggested Reading and Resources
MODULE 2
PEOPLE, FAMILY AND SOCIETY
Demographics: Population, race and class
Sexuality and Morality
Marriage and Divorce
Children and Childhood
Customs and Traditions
Social Currents, Ethnicity and Prejudices
Leisure, hobbies and games
MODULE 3
DOMESTIC LIFE
Introduction to Domestic Life
Environment
Clothing and Fashion
Food and Cooking
House and Home
Housekeeping
Land and Property
Alcohol and Drugs
MODULE 4
BIRTH, LIFE, AND DEATH
Birth
Resources
Health and Lifestyle
Healing: treatments, medicines, surgery
Disease and epidemics
Mental health
Mortality: Death and Burials
MODULE 5
WORK, WAGES AND ECONOMY
Economy: Prices, Cost of Living and Salaries
Occupations, working conditions and the labour movement
Businesses and employers
Social Welfare
MODULE 6
COMMUNITY, RELIGION AND GOVERNMENT
Community
Fairs and Markets
Celebrations and holidays
Education, language and literacy
Religion, church, faith and persecution
Crime and punishment
War, Revolution and Unrest
MODULE 7
GAME CHANGERS
Emigration
Inventions
Transportation
Communication
Optional Print Course Material: Research: South African Ancestors Including Military Records
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course covers the history of South Africa, genealogical sources and repositories for searching your ancestors. General genealogical topics covered include birth, marriage, death, church records, cemeteries, newspapers, and more. Also included is discussion on online databases. Research examples are provided to give guidance in various types of research projects.
In addition, the course looks at major wars and conflicts, and the records they produced. Starting with the Boer Wars, World Wars I and II, and ending at the Korean War. In particular, records of the South African Constabulary, South African Defence Force, South African Air Force and the South African Police are covered.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
HISTORY OF SOUTH AFRICA & THE BOER WARS
South African History
Searching National Archives and Records Service
Settlers Who Travelled to Natal from England, 1824-1857
Shipping/Passenger Lists
The Boer Wars
Boer War 1899-1902
MODULE 2
HOW TO FIND MY ANCESTORS
Introduction to Genealogy in South Africa
General Genealogical Topics
Problems and Pitfalls
Restricted Access Files
School Records
Statistics
Sources for Genealogical Research
MODULE 3
RESEARCH EXAMPLES
An Unfortunate Flying Accident
Story of a Digitorium
Family Rumour
Armoured Train, Trafalgar
Where is Uncle Presbury?
An Unusual Casualty
Story of John Smith
MODULE 4
WORLD WAR I
1914 Rebellion
World War I (1914-18)
History of South Africa’s Involvement
German South West Africa 1914-1915
Actions Taken by the South African Forces
German East Africa Campaign
World War I Diaries
Regimental Mascots
Medals
Germans Living in South Africa Placed in Internment Camps during World War I
South African Police in World War I
MODULE 5
WORLD WAR II
South Africa during World War II
South Africa Defence Force Records
Department of Home Affairs
Obtaining a Certificate through a Private Company
World War II Diaries
German Families during World War II
Men Who Died While Serving in World War II
South African Police in World War II
Women’s Auxiliary Air Force & Women’s Auxiliary Air Service
Nursing in South Africa during World War II
MODULE 6
SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE & SOUTH AFRICAN AIR FORCE IN KOREA
South African Police
Rand Rebellion
Police Clearance Certificates
South African Air Force in the Korean War
APPENDIX
Abbreviations
Guide to Using the National Automated Archival Information Retrieval System
National Archives and Records Service (NARS) Website
National Automated Archival Information Retrieval System
Searching the NAAIRS Databases
Reference Addresses
Libraries
Museums
Creating interesting family history stories involves adding details of your ancestor’s life that go beyond just names and dates. What was their occupation? What religious and political beliefs did they hold? Did they serve in the military, and why did they do what they did? This is an interesting way to start fleshing out the bones of your genealogy and to make your family history come alive.
In this course we will explore how to find and incorporate information about your ancestor’s life to how to write and publish your family history story. Not sure how to go about writing the story of your ancestor? We cover the very beginning steps of writing to the final product.
MODULE 1
THE BASICS OF WRITING
Introduction
Why should we write family stories?
What about other stories outside of straight genealogy?
What is the FOCUS of the writing project?
What General Research Materials Can We Use?
Ethics and Copyright
A Brief Look at Ethics and Copyright
Deed of Gift or Usage Agreements
Writing Assistance
MODULE 2
EXPLORING THE INDIVIDUAL OR FAMILY
How to Explore the Individual or Family
Memory and Story Lists
Jog Your Memory
Incorporate Life Lessons
First Ideas on Writing and Storytelling
Creating the Outline and Timeline for the Story
The Research
MODULE 3
MANY FACETS OF HISTORICAL CONTEXT
Thinking Outside of the Box
Historical Research Considerations
Conducting Historical Research
Next Steps
MODULE 4
TELLING THE STORY
Managing the Writing Project
Writing Tips
Telling the Story
Story Examples
MODULE 5
PUBLISHING
Introduction
Self-Publishing Examples
Writing and Editing
Beta Readers
Layout - Preparing the Text and Images
Cover Design
Proofreaders
Publishing Options - Print and Print On Demand
MODULE 6
GETTING SUPPORT FOR WRITING
Introduction
Education
Writing Groups, Residencies, Retreats, and Studios
Writing Competitions
Special Topic Programs and Lectures
Books, Blogs, Journals, and Magazines
Find a Friend
Suggested Reading and Resources for Writing
Optional Print Course Material: Research: Nova Scotia Ancestors
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Nova Scotia, first settled in 1604 (although it did not remain), has some of the oldest history in what is now Canada. Its early history reflected the ongoing conflicts between France and England, resulting in an era of New France and ultimately, becoming part of British colonial territory that included the thirteen colonies in what became the United States. By the official end of the American Revolution in 1783, Acadia, as it was then known, was redrawn with the state of Maine becoming part of the new US Republic.
Connections with New England, or what Nova Scotians called “the Boston states,” remained close through family on both sides of the border. Indeed, some of the United Empire Loyalists who sought refuge in Nova Scotia returned years later to rejoin parts of their family who remained across the border. The easy trip by schooner between Halifax and Boston or New York was more feasible than overland travel to other parts of Canada. In later years, as economic difficulties in Nova Scotia led to crossing the border for work opportunities, connections increased as half of a family might be living in Boston. Many went to work only and families remained in Nova Scotia. In family history research in the late 1800s and early 1900s, it is not uncommon to find people on a US Census in 1880 and a Canadian Census in 1891. Back and forth migration was a strategy for some families. Ultimately, Nova Scotians who remained in New England married, had children, moved across the United States and lost their connections with family back home.
Many people in other parts of Canada and in the United States have an ancestor who resided in Nova Scotia for five years or several generations. For this reason, the course will focus on distance research although resources available only on-site at archives or local history museums will also be explored.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO NOVA SCOTIA RESEARCH
Course Overview
Overview of Nova Scotia History & Its People
General Sources of Genealogical Information
Birth, Marriage and Deaths
Cemeteries
Probate
Census Records
Poll Taxes and Assessments
Land
Immigration
Military Records
Geography and Administrative Constructs
MODULE 2
ABORIGINAL PEOPLES - THE MI’KMAQ
The Mi’kmaq
Vital Statistics
The Acadians
MODULE 3
BRITISH COLONIAL ERA
New England Planters
Tracing a Planter from Horton Township
United Empire Loyalists
The Hessians
MODULE 4
THE CELTIC PEOPLE - SCOTS & IRISH
The Scot
The Irish
MODULE 5
SETTLEMENT BY THE ENGLISH
The English
British Home Children
Industrial Cape Breton
Halifax and Area
Out-migration or Moving On
MODULE 6
RESEARCH STRATEGIES
Developing a Research Strategy
Nova Scotia Research
Distant Cousins - A Case Study
A Research Trip to Nova Scotia
Social Media
Recommended Resources
Local Genealogy Societies/Museums/Archives
Optional Print Course Material: Research: U.S. Fraternal Organizations
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Researching your ancestor’s involvement in fraternal organizations can be a very rewarding aspect of genealogy. You may learn a great deal about the individual, or you may learn a great deal about the community they resided in, or both. The research can lead you through a variety of different elements of their life, and add color to the basic timeline of an individual’s life span. During this course, we will discuss a variety of topics including the basics of this type of research, the social impacts of these organizations, and the hazards you may encounter along the way.
Their impact on the history of the United States, and truly across the globe, cannot be overlooked. The impact fraternal organizations have had on their individual members—our ancestors—must also not be overlooked in a thorough investigation of a family history.
Course Length: 8 weeks
MODULE 1
FRATERNAL ORGANIZATIONS
Introduction
Aren’t they all just Masons?
How many organizations are there?
How many people were really involved?
A Part of Your Genealogy Research
Important Terminology
Basic Historic Timelines
Basic History of Fraternal Societies
Politics & Fraternal Societies
Dispelling Common Myths
MODULE 2
TYPES OF ORGANIZATIONS
Society Style Differences
Fraternal
General Organization & Structure
Benevolent Organizations
Secret Organizations
Ethnic Organizations
Women’s Organizations
MODULE 3
TYPES OF ORGANIZATIONS…Continued
Religious
Guilds
Political
Military
Work & Industry
Guilds
Symbols
MODULE 4
LINEAGE SOCIETIES
What Makes Lineage Societies Different?
Specific Resources
Civil War Organizations
Surname Societies
MODULE 5
RESEARCH PLANNING
Clues to Fraternal Affiliation
Preparing for a Long Process
Putting the Clues Together
Identifying Resources
MODULE 6
RESEARCH RESOURCES
Websites
Graveyards
Headstone Symbols
Newspapers
Museums
Local Archives
Manuscript Collections
Court Records
Current Members
Historic Research Field
Family Heirlooms
Regalia, Medallions, Aprons & Other Adornments
MODULE 7
RESEARCH EXECUTION
The Fraternal Society Today
Knowing When to Pull Back
Controversial Organizations
Open & Receptive – The Attitude of the Genealogist
Recommended Reading & Resources