Free Genealogy Lecture Series

For those that are in the Fredericksburg, Virginia area the Fredericksburg Regional Genealogical Society (FRGS) will be presenting a lecture series in conjunction with the Central Regional Rappahannock Library (CRRL).  They are free and open to the public, but registration is required to make sure the correct room size is booked. 

FRGS is lucky to have a few national speakers for this event as well as talented members from the local FRGS and researchers from the CRRL presenting.  I will be giving 2 presentations on May 11^th if you are in the area.  While I will not be able to attend the whole series due to previous commitments I would love to know if you will be attending! 

The information below was kindly put together By Mary Maki for the fliers.

Introductory Genealogy and Beyond

Central Rappahannock Regional Library

1201 Caroline Street

Fredericksburg, VA 22401


Call 540-372-1144 to register

March 16&30, April 13&27, May 11

9:00 a.m. – Noon

March 16, 2013

Getting Started by Tripp Wiggins – Session I

Genealogy research is not as difficult as one might think. Mr. Wiggins will address the question of why we do genealogy, what we get out of it, and how to begin. He will explain how talking with family members, looking around the home for family bibles, letters, and photographs, etc. provides important information.  He will then show how to research vital records (birth, marriage, and death), and conclude with an introduction to using the U.S. Census in genealogy research.

A Fresh Look at Beginning African American Genealogy by Char McCargo Bah– Session II

Although this lecture is focused on finding resources for those of African American heritage, the organizational aspects she covers will benefit every genealogist. Ms. Bah will cover organizing your research, writing narratives of what you already know, how to interview relatives, utilizing the U.S. Census, vital statistics, and the importance of joining a genealogical society.

March 30, 2013

Sourcing and Documenting Information by Charles S. “Chuck”Mason Jr. – Session I

Admittedly not the most exciting part of tracing ancestors, documenting the information is by far the most important. Source citation is critical to genealogy research, and Mr. Mason will show how to correctly document sources and explain why it is so important.

Genealogy 201: Beyond the Basics by Tish Como – Session II

Genealogy is about more than recording the names and dates associated with one’s ancestors; it’s about discovering how they lived. This session will focus on locating records and resources that can help tell your family’s story; developing good research habits; using advanced search techniques for better results; and critically evaluating records and findings.

April 13, 2013

Timelines by Phyllis Marilyn (Jule) Legare – Session I

It's easy to let ourselves focus on finding ancestors names, dates & places.  However, our ancestors also fit into a broad picture of life at a certain point in time. World and local events helped to shape our ancestor's choices and lives. Initially in a timeline we may have descriptive data about an ancestor's life. When we interweave historical data, we enrich our understanding. Discussion will encompass describing timelines, how to create them and how to find the appropriate historical data to include.

Military Research Phyllis Marilyn (Jule) Legare – Session II

Much of our country's history has been centered around war & strife and for researchers the good news is those conflicts resulted in records of genealogical importance. Military service and pension records are a wonderful source of family's history and stories. Once you find your ancestors’ military information, you will add so much to your understanding of your family's struggles and life as it was.

April 27, 2013

Probate/Courthouse Records: Understanding Them and Locating Them by Sharon Hodges  – Session I

There are many important records to discover when researching your family’s history.  One of these is probate, or, as they are sometimes called, estate records.  But why do so many genealogists stop after searching for a will?  Locating and understanding other probate records can provide valuable information on your ancestors.  Learn what records exist, what they may tell you, and how to find them.

Civil War Research  by Holly Schemmer– Session II

Fredericksburg is rich in Civil War history. This presentation will help you locate the best sources in finding your Civil War ancestor.

May 11, 2013

DNA in Genealogy by Shannon Combs-Bennett – Session I

Many people are familiar with the use of genetic testing to solve crimes or diagnosis disease, but what about helping you track your family tree?  In this presentation you will learn how to use DNA to trace your ancestors, what the process is, and how you can get started.

Continuing the family legacy: Honoring heritage through lineage societies  by Shannon Combs-Bennett- Session II  Every family has a story to tell and some are more unique than others.  One of the greatest ways to honor the memory of your forefathers is by joining a lineage society.  These societies recognize those in our family tree who have done great things, fought in wars, rallied for a cause, or even owned a colonial tavern.  Learn how a lineage society can help you, what it is like to apply, and how to find the one that is right for you.