My lecture topics include the following:

Intersecting Lines: Pedigree Collapse Clarifies Maria Terwilliger’s Parentage

Documentary evidence revealed Maria Terwilliger as the wife of Solomon Dunn and placed a woman likely to be her in his household in New Paltz, New York, during the early 1800s. Pedigree collapse aided in identifying Maria’s correct parents among several candidates.

5 Ways to Streamline the Genealogical Writing Process

Whether writing professionally, for your family, or for your own records, the writing process takes time! Learn how to streamline the process and your final deliverables with these five practices.

Keys to Finding Your Pennsylvania German Ancestors in the Keystone State

German immigrants flooded into Pennsylvania throughout the 18th century. When they arrived, they became Pennsylvania residents, and records created for them were similar to records created for any Pennsylvanian. However, our German ancestors maintained their own language, communities, and customs. Learning about practices unique to Pennsylvania Germans will help identify them in Pennsylvania records.

Who Were the Parents of David R. Matheson? A DNA Case Study

David R. Matheson emigrated from Nova Scotia to California as a young adult. Documents created throughout David’s life in California fail to identify the names of his parents. This case study illustrates how combining DNA and documentary research helped identify David’s origins in Nova Scotia, identify and eliminate paternal candidates, and solidify biological relationships to both parents.

Research 101: Tools and Techniques for Beginning Genealogists

Learning an effective research process and analysis skills while researching less distant ancestors will lead to successful results. Early success will build skills and confidence to begin tackling more difficult tasks.

DNA 101: Tools and Techniques for Beginning Genetic Genealogists

Learn basic tools and techniques used by genetic genealogists that will provide a foundation for you to build on as you incorporate DNA in your research.

Climbing Your Branch of the FamilySearch Family Tree 

The FamilySearch tree is collaborative, which means we are working together to create one tree for the entire world. Our responsibility is to ensure that our branch of that tree is as accurate as possible. Learn how to evaluate the accuracy of your branch of the FamilySearch family tree, resolve problems, and take steps to correctly document accurate information. 

Lectures Designed Specifically for Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:

Finding Time in This Season: Simple Ways to Access the Promised Blessings of Family History TODAY

We often put off participating in temple and family history work, saying “This isn’t my season.” however, the promised blessings of participation are desirable in EVERY season. Learn simple ways to participate in temple and family history work no matter what season of life you are in. Begin experiencing the promised blessings today!

Preparing Ancestor Names for Temple Ordinance Work

This class covers considerations and best practices for reserving temple work for ancestors.