Monday Report: 2010 Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research

Jeffrey Vaillant continues his series from the Samford Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (IGHR).

Lloyd de Witt Bockstruck began the morning by stating the “simple” Four Steps of Genealogical Research:

1. What do you want to find or to prove?
2. What kind of record would contain that information?
3. Where does that record exist?
4. How do I gain access to it?

This four step process strikes me as a good guideline for the week. The first presentation was on Tax Records. Lloyd provided a bibliography of tax record sources that have been complied for many (but not all) states. He addressed remembering to know what the law required for taxing. And in the colonial period there were rent rolls rather than tax rolls in places like Virginia (paid to Lord Fairfax), Maryland (paid to Lord Baltimore), Pennsylvania (paid to William Penn) and North Carolina (paid to Lord Granville).

Next Lloyd discussed the Pitfalls of Genealogy with a list of some twenty-eight examples! Some we all know about: surnames and forenames, Sr. versus Jr., as well as abbreviations and titles. Some people get tripped up on the sanctity of the printed word or the failure to become acquainted with local history. Ever hear the term “semi-posthumous child”? I certainly had not. Want to guess what it means? I will answer in a couple of days.

Claire Bettag, CG, CGL, presented the afternoon lecture on Federal Land Records at the National Archives. If you have heard Claire, then you will know it is impossible to nap after lunch when she is presenting. She ripped through her ten pages of prepared materials leaving behind many items for follow up. Upon my return I'll be visiting NARA in San Bruno to follow up on several sources she cited.

Lloyd finished the afternoon with A Genealogical Bibliography divided into subjects of Atlases/Gazetteers, Bibliographies, Biography, Dictionaries, Handbooks, Indexes, Law, Paleography, Passenger Lists, Periodicals, Manuscripts, and Ethnic Guides.

There are optional evening presentations offered. Monday night was excellent. Ruth Ann (Abels) Hager spoke on History through Genealogy—the Best of Both Worlds. She presented what would be called a case study on Dred and Harriet Scott: Their Family History. Yes, this is the Dred Scott of the U.S. Supreme Court decision. One might think that about all has been written and discovered about the family. Well, one would be wrong. Ruth has uncovered new materials and explained how using genealogical methodology led to the discoveries and their information. Her book was published this year and is now in my collection.

– Jeffrey Vaillant

Read the entire series:
Part 1 — Getting to IGHR: A Tale of Two Days
Part 2 — Monday Report
Part 3 — Tuesday Report
Part 4 — Wednesday Report
Part 5 — Thursday Report
Part 6 — Friday Report


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Getting to IGHR: A Tale of Two Days

Board member and conference reporter, Jeffrey Vaillant, has been on another voyage of learning. This time he took time out of a busy week in Birmingham, Alabama to report on the Samford Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (IGHR). Jeff's first report:

IGHR is the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research held annually at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. There are ten courses offered this year and I selected Intermediate Genealogy and Historical Studies whose course coordinator is Lloyd de Witt Bockstruck.

My trip to “genealogy camp” (as some call it) began innocently enough with a United Airlines flight from the San Francisco Bay Area to Birmingham with a stopover in Chicago – all on the Saturday before the institute to allow me to arrive a bit early. The travel time would allow me to read Virginia Winters’ book Murderous Roots (2009) which I highly recommend for mystery readers with a strong genealogical bent.

Landing at O’Hare International Airport brought the sudden news that my connecting flight to Birmingham had been cancelled. The agent at the gate informed me that the chances of getting out of Chicago were slim and to proceed to the customer service desk which he warned me would have a long line. How right he was. After waiting 2.5 hours in line I finally got to talk with a service person. No flights on any airline out of O’Hare Saturday night. What were my options? ALL the flights on Sunday were booked! To his credit the service person put me on a standby list for the 7 a.m. flight and if that did not work out he ticketed me from Chicago to Charleston, SC, to Charlotte, NC and then to Birmingham. Since the flight cancellation was weather related I got a discounted rate at the Doubletree in Rosemont and was assured that my luggage would be on the first flight out the next morning (which was my standby flight).

Up early Sunday morning, shuttle to the airport and Starbucks was my start of the the day. I found that watching the wonderfully informative screens at the gate kept me informed about the flight, including the standby list. I was number eleven and there were ten seats left. “Standbys” were encouraged to stay until the gate closed. I had an alternative so I waited it out. Four seats left and I am number seven on the list. WHAT?? My name was called and I was on the plane.

It was a short flight to Birmingham – one hour, forty five minutes – arriving before 9:00 a.m. Off to retrieve the luggage. The routing is well known. We all stand around staring at the conveyor belt which finally starts. Nope, the luggage did not arrive! Where is the luggage agent? The luggage office was closed so it was off to see a ticket agent. The luggage tag and the computer system worked well: the luggage was still in Chicago! The United Airlines Delayed Baggage Report was filled out and submitted. The assurance was I would hear within 24 hours. Well, that was not going to work since I was staying in the dorms and the luggage contained bedding materials and the like.

Since orientation was in the afternoon and it was hot in Birmingham (99°F.) I elected to stay in the airport and read Labor Day by Joyce Maynard on my Kindle. Afternoon arrived so it was time to taxi from the airport to Samford University ($45). It was amazing to see others standing around in the heat and humidity waiting to register – and the line got quite long before the doors opened. Registration was a snap due to the IGHR staff. I got my dorm room. Bare bones accommodations and the price is right.

Dinner was in the Cafeteria with more than the 300 attending IGHR. The campus is alive with various activities from summer youth sports camps to freshman orientation. The cafeteria staff must have feed 1500 people. The IGHR orientation followed. The orientation was complete and informative. I called United Airlines to find out the status on my luggage. Their call center could not find anyone at the Birmingham Airport---not surprise it being Sunday.

One advantage about conferences and institutes is the people who attend. I was able to hitch a ride to Kmart to get clean clothes and some bathing items as well as rent a room at the nearby Marriott for the night. At 11:30 p.m. my luggage arrived so Monday I could get settled into the dorm.

Ah, what an adventure. I knew I should have flown Southwest Airlines.

– Jeffrey Vaillant



Read the entire series:
Part 1 — Getting to IGHR: A Tale of Two Days
Part 2 — Monday Report
Part 3 — Tuesday Report
Part 4 — Wednesday Report
Part 5 — Thursday Report
Part 6 — Friday Report



Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Third Edition: Carnival of Genealogical Societies

Welcome to the Third Edition of the Carnival of Genealogical Societies.

First, kudos to the footnoteMaven for creating the carnival badge and description:

The key to all good genealogical research starts with the society of other genealogists and in turn genealogy societies.

Next, I must apologize for my tardiness and the lack of time and attention I have given to the GenSo Carnival. I promise to do a better job of promoting the carnival and gathering submissions starting with the next edition.

The topic for this edition is: Uniquely Us!

How is your society unique?
Tell us about something one-of-a-kind. Is it a program, project, or publication? A record set or archival holding? A certain procedure or way you handle meetings? This is your opportunity to tell why and how your society is special!

This edition has three submissions:

Thomas MacEntee is the new Publicity Chair and the social media agent for the Illinois State Genealogical Society based in Springfield, Illinois. Thomas describes some of the special genealogy programs and services available at the society in Uniquely Illinois posted at Illinois State Genealogical Society Blog.

Charles Hansen shares a special type of city directory resource in  Third Carnival Of Genealogical Societies: Uniquely EWGS posted at Eastern Washington Genealogical Society Blog. Charles commented: "I don't know how EWGS got these Postal Forwarding books, but as a resource for genealogists they are amazing."

Kathryn Doyle discusses a valuable CGS database in Uniquely Ours: The California Names Index posted here at the California Genealogical Society and Library blog. "Take a chance and search our index!"


This concludes the third edition.

The topic for the next edition of the Carnival of Genealogical Societies originated with a request from Robert Larson, President and Newsletter Editor of the Larimer County Genealogical Society. The society recently put up a Facebook Page and Bob had some questions that are timely.

Call for Submissions!

The topic for the next edition of the Carnival of Genealogical Societies is: Gen Societies on Facebook.

Does your society have a Facebook Page? What are the benefits? Are you an administrator or a regular contributor? Does it help your members or attract new visitors and members?

The deadline for submissions is September 7, 2010.

Please indicate in your article that you are writing for the Fourth Edition of the Carnival of Genealogical Societies. Submit your blog post using the carnival submission form provided by Blog Carnival. Please use a descriptive phrase in the title of any article you plan to submit and write a brief introduction to your articles in the "remarks" section of the form.

Past posts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

See you at the Carnival!

 Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Uniquely Ours: The California Names Index

Member volunteers have donated thousands of hours painstakingly indexing and abstracting records held by the society to create the California Names Index – an enormous and unique database on our website. Currently there are more than 350,000 names in the index from state, county, and local references. It is an ongoing project and names are added regularly.

Surname searches of the index are free. Search results yield a full name and an Index Code which identifies the type of source material we have for that individual. If your ancestors or relatives appear in the Names Index, you can order copies of the original records from our Lookups Committee. (Members receive a discount for this service.)

Are you missing a nineteenth century ancestor? During the Gold Rush years, the population of a place called California exploded as immigrants poured into the territory from around the world. Take a chance and search the California Names Index. Be sure to leave a comment if you get a hit!

–Written for the Third Edition of the Carnival of Genealogical Societies: Uniquely Us.


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library.

Workshop: Using Microsoft PowerPoint 2007 for Your Genealogy Presentations

Saturday, August 7, 2010
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

California Genealogical Society Library
2201 Broadway, Suite LL2
Oakland, California 94612

PowerPoint 2007 is a powerful presentation tool that allows you to create professional looking presentations and have fun doing it!

In this workshop, Kathy Watson will show you how to:

• navigate around the ribbon and know where things are located
• create and save presentations
• work with tabs and tools to insert elements and style them as you want
• choose a theme

and more!

You will get hands-on practice by working on some instructor-created exercises. If you don't bring your laptop to class you can partner with someone and try the exercises at home.

Skill level: beginner to intermediate.

This workshop is limited to fifteen participants and one of the free benefits for CGS members. Non-members fee is $20.00 (non-refundable) and can be applied towards membership on the day of the workshop.

Preregistration is required. Walk-ins will not be admitted.

Register online.


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Update From the French-Canadian Special Interest Group

One of the upcoming summer Thursday night discussions will be devoted to all thing French-Canadian.

On Thursday, July 22, 2010, Mary Beth Frederick will facilitate a discussion about French-Canadian research resources. She will be available to provide help for non-French-speakers about commonly used words and to converse about the format of French-Canadian birth, marriage and death records. Attendees are encouraged to bring their problem documents.

The session will be held from 6:30 p.m. - 8:15 p.m. at the CGS library. Participants of all levels of research experience are welcome to network and join the conversation.

SIG organizer Lorna Jones sent word that future meetings of the French-Canadian group are planned for Saturday mornings: October 9, 2010 and January 8, 2011.


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Workshop: How to Conduct Oral Histories with Nancy Thompson

Saturday, August 14, 2010
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

California Genealogical Society and Library
2201 Broadway, Suite LL2
Oakland, California 94612

Nancy Thompson will conduct a three-hour interactive workshop on how to conduct oral histories. Discussion topics will include interviewing techniques, transcribing and editing tips, using photographs and other family memorabilia, incorporating relevant social history, using different multimedia options (book, CD, video, DVD, websites), and archiving oral histories.

This workshop is limited to thirty participants and is a free benefit of membership. A non-refundable fee of  $20.00 will be charged to non-members (can be applied towards a CGS membership only on the day of the workshop.) Walk-ins will not be admitted. Preregistration is required.

Register online.

Nancy Thompson is an Oakland native, an award-winning oral historian, filmmaker, and writer. She is the director and producer of a 12-minute documentary titled Mrs. Brown’s Beauty - A Story of Art and Inspiration. Produced in 2006, the film has been screened at film festivals in Oakland, San Francisco, and Atlanta. She is the author of Pioneering Spirits – A Legacy of Courage (2009), The Life and Art of Inez Brown (2009), The Artwork of Inez Brown (2005), and The Turner Family History (2003). Nancy was an interviewer for the Friends of Negro Spirituals Oral History Project, In Our Own Words: The Negro Spirituals Heritage Keepers and she has recorded her family history with the Story Corps’ Griot Project and the Museum of the African Diaspora’s Share Your Stories Project. Nancy earned a B.A. degree in sociology/economics from Mills College in Oakland and a J.D. degree from Hastings College of the Law in San Francisco.


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

eNews July 2010, volume 4, number 7

The July 2010 issue of the eNews, volume 4, number 7, has been published and emailed to members and friends. As always, the eNews features timely information about the California Genealogical Society and our upcoming events. Each edition also includes Suggested Links From the Blogosphere and a photo feature: California Ancestors.

This month I submitted one of my own ancestor photographs. A tintype of my gg-grandmother, Mary Ann "Mollie" Glant Briggs.

Mary Ann "Mollie" (Glant) Briggs (1848-1880)

All past issues of the eNews are available for viewing at the eNewsARCHIVE.

The August 2010 issue will be emailed on July 31, 2010. To receive a copy, please join our mailing list.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Book Donation Policy

The California Genealogical Society Library appreciates donations of books and periodicals that have genealogical content. The generosity of many people has greatly enriched the CGS Library collections in the past. Donations will be gratefully received by the CGS Library Committee and will be reviewed by Committee members, who will make decisions regarding retention.

Desired donations include: family genealogies or family histories; county histories and local histories with biographical sketches of residents; indexes to, or abstracts of, vital records or newspapers; and genealogical periodicals. Works on CD-ROM or microfilm will be accepted if not available in other formats. 

Due to limited shelf space, NOT ALL donated items can be added to the Library collection. Examples include: encyclopedias lacking genealogical content, most biographies or autobiographies of famous persons, general histories, Who’s Who-type publications, works of fiction, photocopied books still under copyright, yearbooks, and many media materials. If received, CGS may give such items to other libraries, exchange them for more desirable works, or sell them in periodic book sales, the proceeds of which help to support Library operations.

Duplicate copies of items already owned by CGS may be retained if they are in better condition than copies currently in use. Small printed items that cannot be catalogued for the book collection may be added to the Surname File.

Donors (when known) will be identified with bookplates inside front covers noting items as gifts. Letters of thanks will be sent to donors, or to their heirs if gifts are from estates. CGS is not allowed by law to appraise or value any donation, but donors are welcome to fill out and sign the Instrument of Gift form for their uses.

Decisions regarding donations of unpublished works, such as scrapbooks, original documents, pedigree charts, correspondence, personal diaries, photographs and photo albums, will be the responsibility of the CGS Archives Committee rather than the Library Committee, or may be made jointly by both committees in special instances.

Donated items become the property of the California Genealogical Society and Library, to be used in whatever way is most beneficial to the Library. CGS reserves the right to withdraw donations from the Library collection if they become obsolete or can be replaced by newer editions. CGS does attempt to extend the useful life of withdrawn materials, whether by exchange, sale, or donation to other collections.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Five Ways To Kill Your Genealogy Society

In all of the excitement of Jamboree I neglected to acknowledge the publication of an article that should be a must-read for every genealogical society. Amy Coffin's piece, Five Ways To Kill Your Genealogy Society, is the lead article in the May-June 2010 California State Genealogical Alliance Newsletter.

Amy is the "rock star" author of the highly acclaimed We Tree blog and has a master's degree in library and information science from San Jose State University. She's a new member of the California Genealogical Society and Library and serves on our Publications and Marketing Committee.

I hope Amy doesn't mind me telling that the concept (and title) came from Jane Hufft, Editor of The California Nugget. Amy ran with the idea and wrote it in record time. CSGA Newsletter Editor Peggy Rossi thought it was great and worth sharing with genealogical societies across the state of California. I think it's worth sharing with societies across the planet and if you hurry you can download and read the article and the entire issue. (The Alliance puts the current issue up on their website as a sample so you may get another issue if you read this too far in the future.)

If your society would like permission to reprint Amy's article, email her at amy@amycoffin.com.


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Thursdays in July and August: An Experiment with Evening Hours!

Events coordinators Tim Cox and Jane Lindsey are excited to announce summer extended research hours at the library designed especially for working members and patrons.

Starting July 8, 2010 and continuing every Thursday through August, the California Genealogical Society Library will be open from 9:00 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. Hours on the two other open days will remain the same: Friday (9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. ) and Saturday (10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.)

In addition, informal evening discussions are planned from 6:30 p.m. - 8:15 p.m. Participants of all levels of research experience are welcome to network and join the conversation. Topics are as follows:

July 8, 2010 – New Tools on Familysearch.org 
Discuss and learn about the site improvements including Record Search Pilot, Indexing, the Wiki, online tutorials and more.

July 15, 2010 – Blogging
Share your favorite gen blogs and discuss how and why blogging can help genealogists. If you have a secret desire to be a blogger, come and ask questions. You’ll get a better understanding of how to get started and how to maintain your blog.

July 22, 2010 – French-Canadian Research
Have documents you can’t translate? Members of the society’s French-Canadian Special Interest Group will share their tips and expertise. Facilitator: Mary Beth Frederick.

July 29, 2010 – Using NewEnglandAncestors.org 
Helpful tips will be shared to more effectively use this subscription site. Facilitator: Tom Gesner.
RSVP for Using NewEnglandAncestors.org

August 5, 2010 – Whippersnappers 2.0
Born in the 70s or 80s? This session is for you! This is an invitation to our younger members and friends to get together and share ideas on how the society can be more helpful to your research. Hint: if you remember disco you're too old for this meeting. Facilitators: Jennifer Jones Regan and Gabrielle Kojder.
RSVP for Whippersnappers 2.0.

August 12, 2010 – Hispanic/Latino Research
Share ideas for effective research in Spanish-speaking countries. Discuss the Spanish record extraction process. Bring your questions and your favorite resources. Facilitator: Ellen Fernandez-Sacco.
RSVP for Hispanic/Latino Research.

August 19, 2010 – German Research
Have you been putting off your German research? Join a discussion about resources, which sites are best and how to find towns in Germany. Experienced researchers will help you gain the confidence you need to get started. Facilitator: Jane Knowles Lindsey.
RSVP for German Research.

August 26, 2010 – Using Roots Magic
Bring your questions and ask the group for advice on how to perform tasks, run reports, create charts, or overcome obstacles you are experiencing with RootsMagic4. Power users will be there to help solve your dilemmas. Facilitator: Tim Cox.
RSVP for Using Roots Magic.

Details are still being worked out and facilitators are being identified for each discussion session.

BYO dinner or buy something nearby. If you plan to drive, metered spaces in Oakland are free after 6:00 p.m. but they fill up fast. Traveling in by BART is easier – get off at the 19th Street station. Group discussions will end by 8:15 p.m. to allow for everyone to walk to BART together before dark.

We would love your feedback. Do any of these topics appeal to you? Will extended summer hours entice you to spend some time with us?


 Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

San Francisco Bay Area Genealogy Calendar: July 2010 Published

July 2010 meetings and events have been posted to the San Francisco Bay Area Genealogy Calendar. The calendar is a collection of local genealogical society events – seminars, classes, workshops and meetings – within a 75 mile radius of San Francisco.

More than thirty genealogy programs will be offered during the month of July.

If you would like your group's events added to the calendar, please email the information by the 20th of each month for publication on the 25th. (Put "SFBA Calendar" in the subject line.)


 Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

The California Nugget, Volume II, Issue 1

Writing, editing, formatting and printing of the Spring 2010 edition of The California Nugget is complete and copies should be arriving at members' homes any day. Kudos to Editor Jane Hufft and Production Editor Lois Elling for another outstanding issue!

You'll notice right away that the cover color has changed – the plan is to use a different one for each year. The Editor's message from Jane explains:

For 2010 both issues will have green covers, signaling freshness, renewal, and growth in the articles and information we present for our readers. May this inspire your research to bloom!

The cover article is an informative and entertaining piece by Thomas MacEntee: The Day Grandma Fran Got On Facebook: Why the World Didn't End and Why It Was a Good Thing. Thomas is a "far-flung" member of the California Genealogical Society who lives in Chicago.

TABLE of CONTENTS
Twenty-First Century Genealogy 
The Day Grandma Fran Got On Facebook by Thomas MacEntee
California Ancestors: Our New Look by Kathryn Doyle
Finding the Laughran Sisters - Part II by Jane Hufft

California Ancestors 

Alonzo Marston and Eliza Jackson: Struggles and Survival of a California Family by Ronald Cannon

Louis Schwoerer and Sophia Henrietta Schlechtweg: Pioneers of Murphys, Calaveras County by Barry F. Schwoerer and Lori Schwoerer

For Our Readers
The CGS Calendar
Recent Acquisitions in the Library
News from the Society 
New Members
Research Trip to Salt Lake City 
Index

The California Nugget is a benefit of membership in the California Genealogical Society. It is published twice a year.


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Encore! Hard Drive Organization: Making Use of Your Computer File Folders

Saturday, July 31, 2010
11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

California Genealogical Society Library
2201 Broadway, Suite LL2
Oakland, California 94612

Join Tim Cox for an encore presentation of this popular workshop!

After collecting digital images from online sources and manually scanning paper documents and photos for over twenty years, Tim found a management method that works for his digital files. He will demonstrate how to name files for easy identification, how to organize folders that make it easy to find them, and how to properly identify scanned photographs.

This workshop is limited to twenty participants and is a free benefit for society members. Walk-ins will not be admitted.

The fee for non-members is $20.00 (non-refundable) and can be applied towards membership only on the day of the workshop.

Register online.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Internet Genealogical Research with Nancy Peterson and Ron Filion

Saturday, July 17, 2010
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

California Genealogical Society Library
2201 Broadway, Suite LL2
Oakland, California 94612

Join Ron Filion and Nancy Peterson for some hands-on internet genealogical research. Participants will work in groups and will be given a case study to research and solve during the class using the internet as their primary resource. This will be a great way to hone your internet research skills.

The class is limited to the first fifteen registrants. Free for members; $20.00 for non-members. (The non-refundable fee can be applied to a membership on the day of the class.) Walk-ins will not be admitted.

Bring a lunch, laptop and your enthusiasm!

Register online.

Nancy Peterson is a certified genealogist, research director for the society and author of numerous articles. Her search for her maternal San Francisco ancestors led ultimately to the publication of Raking the Ashes: Genealogical Strategies for Pre-1906 San Francisco Research, published in 2006.



Ron Filion, co-founder of SFgenealogy, is a local speaker and historian with expertise in internet genealogical resources and San Francisco history. He has been a consultant for various historical books, and has appeared in documentary films and television.






Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Member Spotlight: Cath Madden Trindle

One of the high points of the February 27, 2010 meeting of the California State Genealogical Alliance held at the CGS Library was the presentation of The President's Citation award to Cath Trindle by Alliance President Sue Roe.

Cath Madden Trindle, CG, is a first generation Californian who owned a bookkeeping consultation business for thirty years. She earned a Certificate of European Research from BYU and a Certificate in Genealogical Studies - Librarianship from the National Institute of Genealogical Studies.

In addition to being a national conference speaker, Cath is an active administrator for three genealogical societies. She is currently Treasurer of the Federation of Genealogical Societies. She heads up Special Projects for the California State Genealogical Alliance and is a regular contributor to their newsletter. As Publication Chair for the San Mateo Coutny Genealogical Society, she has edited the San Mateo County Naturalization Index Series, the Schellens indexing project, and coauthored their Tree Climbing Guides.

She has been a member of the California Genealogical Society since 2006.

Cath will be making three presentations at the upcoming FGS Conference "Rediscovering America's First Frontier" August 18-21, 2010, in Knoxville, Tennessee. The conference is co-sponsored with the East Tennessee Historical Society and Kentucky Historical Society.

Cath's award states:

President's Citation Award to Cath Madden Trindle for her many contributions to CSGA, the genealogical community as CSGA Treasurer, Special Projects Chair, Speaker and as a positive example of CSGA Member dedication. Presented by the California State Genealogical Alliance, Susan M. Roe, President, 27 February 2010.

Congratulations, Cath!


Photographs by Kathryn M. Doyle, Oakland, California, 2/27/2010.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Wordless Wednesday

California Genealogical Society Table

SCGS Jamboree Exhibit Hall

June 11-13, 2010

Photographs courtesy of Tim Cox and Kathryn Doyle, Burbank, California.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Jamboree Panel: Blogger Summit 2

I'm on the panel Blogger Summit 2 at the Jamboree. Here's the view from the stage.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Well-Represented at the SCGS Jamboree

The 41st Southern California Genealogical Society Jamboree begins today (through Sunday, June 13, 2010) in Burbank and many California Genealogical Society members have traveled south for the annual event.

Events Coordinator Tim Cox unfurled the new banner at Table 114 in the Exhibit Hall. Be sure to stop by and see us.

Several members' names appear on the list of speakers.

Ron Arons presents Researching Criminal Relatives, Saturday 5:00 p.m. Ron can be found at Table 105 in the Exhibit Hall

Elyse Doerflinger leads a Mini-course Workshop: Using Your Computer, Video Camera and YouTube Saturday at 8:30 a.m. Elyse will also be a panelist on Blogger Summit Part 1: From Novice to Reader to Blogger in Sixty Minutes.

Lisa Lee is presenting two talks: Search & Reward Notices: Hidden Information About Former Slaves, Saturday 3:30 p.m. and City Directories – Full of Hidden Information, Sunday 2:00 p.m.

Thomas MacEntee is going non-stop this weekend. He's leading three mini-course workshops, moderating two blogging summits and presenting a talk.

His schedule: Google Docs for Beginners, Friday 4:00 p.m.; Blogger Summit Part 1: From Novice to Reader to Blogger in Sixty Minutes, Saturday 10 a.m. followed by Blogger Summit Part 2: Now that You're a Genealogy Blogger, Saturday 11:30 a.m.; Twitter – It's Not Just "What I Had For Breakfast" Anymore, Saturday, 5:00 p.m.; Blogger for Beginners, Saturday 2:00 p.m. and WordPress For Beginners, Saturday, 3:00 p.m. Whew!

Craig Manson and Kathryn Doyle are also panelists on Blogger Summit Part 2: Now That You're a Genealogy Blogger, Satuday 11:30 p.m.

Cath Trindle is presenting three talks: How Much Proof is Enough?, Saturday 2:00 p.m.; Women of the West, Saturday 5:00 p.m. and California Sources Online and Off, Sunday, 2:00 p.m.


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Wordless Wednesday

California State Genealogical Society Meeting

Sue Roe, President

Saturday, February 26, 2010

Photographs by Kathryn M. Doyle, Oakland, California.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

July Membership Meeting with Dr. Henry Snyder

Saturday, July 10, 2010
1:00 p.m.
California Genealogical Society Library
2201 Broadway, Suite LL2
Oakland, California

Inventorying, Preserving, Filming and Digitizing California Newspapers: The California Newspaper Project and its Digital Successor

CGS member Dr. Henry Snyder is our July membership meeting speaker and he will share the fascinating history of the California Newspaper Project and the California Digital Newspaper Collection.

The California Digital Newspaper Collection offers over 200,000 pages of California newspapers spanning the years 1849-191l: the Alta California, 1849-1891; the San Francisco Call, 1893-1910; the Amador Ledger, 1900-1911; the Imperial Valley Press, 1901-1911; the Sacramento Record-Union, 1859-1890; and the Los Angeles Herald, 1905-1907. Additional years are forthcoming, as are other early California newspapers: the Californian; the California Star; the California Star and Californian; the Sacramento Transcript; the Placer Times; and the Pacific Rural Press.

A specialist in British history, Snyder earned his B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. from U.C. Berkeley. He has been a professor and dean at the University of Kansas, Louisiana State University at Baton Rouge, and the University of California, Riverside. Dr. Snyder was awarded the National Humanities Medal in 2007.

The short membership meeting starts promptly at 1:00 p.m. Dr. Snyder's presentation follows immediately after. Seating is limited so please arrive early. Meetings are open to everyone but non-members pay a $5.00 users fee to enter the library. (Or come and become a member!)


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Wordless Wednesday

May Membership Meeting

Jo Ann Rowley-Minhoto

Photos courtesy of Tim Cox, 5/8/2010, Oakland, California.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

eNews June 2010, volume 4, number 6

The June 2010 issue of the eNews, volume 4, number 6, has been published and emailed to members and friends. As always, the eNews features timely information about the California Genealogical Society and our upcoming events. Each edition also includes Suggested Links From the Blogosphere and a photo feature: California Ancestors.

This month we honor the the paternal grandmother of member volunteer, Jeanie W. Chooey Low – Grandma Fung – who graces the cover of her book, China Connection: Finding Ancestral Roots For Chinese in America.

Grandma Fung

All past issues of the eNews are available for viewing at the eNews ARCHIVE. The July 2010 issue will be emailed on June 30, 2010. To receive a copy, please join our mailing list.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Juneteenth Celebration at the Museum of the African Diaspora Hightlights Genealogy

Member Lisa Lee will be the featured speaker at the Juneteenth Celebration at the Museum of the African Diaspora in San Francisco on Saturday June 19, 2010. Lisa sent this information:

Join us for a day of reflection and an opportunity to trace your family’s lineage. Whether you’re a novice or an enthusiast, come participate in workshops designed to develop basic skills in gathering, preserving, and sharing your family’s history.

Saturday, June 19th, 11:00 a.m. –  4:00 p.m.

Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD), 685 Mission, San Francisco (415) 358-7200

EVENT costs: $10, free for MoAD members.

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES - Visit the Education Center and work with a MoAD artist to create your own screen printed family tree.  Also on view, a special screening of the PBS documentary, "Juneteenth:  A Celebration of Freedom"

11:00 a.m. — 12:30 p.m. Researching Your Family History From Afar**
The workshop will show you how to find and access documents and databases from remote locations. County courthouses, state archives, local libraries may seem to be thousands of miles away, but with a few trusted tips and tricks, you can gain access to records from afar, and find even the most errant ancestors. Led by professional genealogist, Lisa B. Lee, PLCGS

12:30 p.m. — 2:00 p.m. African Genetic Ancestry
Gina Paige, President and Co-founder of AfricanAncestry.com, will lead an engaging and informative workshop that explores genetic ancestry tracing within historical, cultural, and scientific contexts. Learn how DNA technology can help you find your family’s roots, when the paper trail ends.

2:00 p.m. — 3:30 p.m. Beginning Genealogy for the 21st Century **
This workshop will show you how to make the most of online databases, what to avoid, and who to trust as you explore the internet to find your ancestral roots. Led by professional genealogist, Lisa B. Lee, PLCGS

**For purchase the Genealogy Starter Kit, $30 (includes materials for workshop and one year subscription to gotgenealogy.com)

1:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m. Family Day Activities
Visit the Education Center and work with a MoAD artist to create your own screen printed family tree. In the Heritage Center, hear audio recordings from Bay Area locals who participated in our first session of the Share Your Stories program and then sign up to record your own story. Also on view, a special screening of the PBS documentary, Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom.

Juneteenth is a celebration of African American freedom and achievement. It was originated to commemorate the day that enslaved Africans in Texas received formal notification of their emancipation on June 19, 1865, more than two and a half years after the implementation of the Emancipation Proclamation.

For more information, contact the MoAD:  (415)  358-7200  www.moadsf.org

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Encore presentation - New York City: Insider's Guide to Research by Steve Harris

Sunday, June 27, 2010
1:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. (Doors open at 12:30 p.m.)

Oakland Regional Family History Center
4766 Lincoln Avenue, Oakland, CA 94602

If you are like the majority of Americans, at least one of your ancestors spent time in New York City. This encore presentation will focus on techniques for researching New York City ancestors in the 19th and 20th centuries using the internet, local resources, and on-site research in New York City itself. We will explore the wealth of online material accessible on NYC Web sites as well as that hidden deep within Ancestry.com and other subscription services. Attendees are encouraged to bring laptop computers, as the library has free wi-fi.

Program:
Part one from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Hands-on time on computers 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Part two from 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. 

Steve Harris is a consulting genealogist with extensive experience assisting clients with their family histories. Born in Brooklyn, he has deep roots in New York City, but the siren call of California was too strong to resist.  Steve is president of the California Genealogical Society and Library. His office and 6,000-volume research library are in Oakland, just down the hall from CGS.

Sponsored with the San Francisco Bay Area Jewish Genealogical Society.



 Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

KTVU's "Bay Area People" Features California Ancestors

In case you live out of the area or you missed the show, KTVU's Bay Area People with Rosy Chu showcased the society in a very creative way.

Past-president Jane Knowles Lindsey shared a few member photographs that have been previously featured in the California Genealogical Society and Library eNews. It was a great visual way to share some interesting ancestor stories and showcase what we do.

These are the featured photos and the stories as told by our member submitters:

The March 2008 photo of Myrtle and Norah in 1911 Alaska was submitted by Sandra Hart:

This is my favorite photograph of my father's mother, Myrtle Helen Kavaney. She was born in Wellston, Ohio in 1890 to Michael Kaveny and Emma Rebecca Handley, both of Irish ancestry. In 1908, Myrtle's coal-miner father died leaving the family destitute. Myrtle decided to seek her fortune in the goldfields of Alaska. She made the trip by stagecoach, ship, train, and riverboat with her aunt, Norah Handley Morley, who was rejoining her family. They lived in Fairbanks and ran a business hauling people and supplies to the Ester Creek mining operations. The first person Myrtle met when the riverboat docked in Fairbanks was the man who would become her husband, Ralph Hugho Harris from Selma, California. In the next few years, Myrtle lived in North Vancouver Island with her aunt and mother. The photo shows Myrtle and Norah working a float of logs in their long skirts and high-button shoes in 1911. By 1920, Myrtle and Ralph married and moved to California to farm in Selma. The rest of Ralph's family also returned to California from their 20-year adventure in Alaska to a ranch in Napa.

The December 2009 photo of the Semler family of Nebraska was submitted by Mary Hunt:

This 1886 photo is of my ancestor Job Daniel Joseph Semler (holding donkey), his pregnant wife Lillie Belle (Orvis) Semler (holding child), and their first two children, George (by chair) and Daisy (held by her mother).

Job Semler applied for this homestead on 20 May 1878. After proving that he had made the necessary improvements to the land and paying the $4 final payment, he was awarded a patent in January 1884. The general land office records documenting his homestead are held at NARA in Washington D.C. and include information about his experience such as details of improvements, his times in residence at and absence from the property and testimony of his neighbors about his lifestyle and credibility.

In the Fall of 1888, after his health had failed, Job Semler moved to the nearby town of Sargent and became a butcher. He was able to support his family until 1895 when a major drought destroyed the local economy. Unable to sell his home for an amount sufficient to cover his mortgage, Job abandoned the house and moved back to Illinois in the fall of 1895. In the Spring of 1896, he moved his family back to Sargent, and started again.

On 25 October 1899, the Burlington & Missouri train arrived in Sargent. The town and many of its occupants began to flourish, including Job Semler who resumed work as a butcher. Records in the county clerk's office indicate that he also became a rather active buyer and seller of land. Job Semler continued on this path until his death 17 May 1939. I descend from his youngest daughter, Rozell Ferne Semler.

This image was taken by a now-famous Nebraskan photographer, Solomon Devore Butcher. He lived in Custer County, Nebraska, and photographed a large number of homesteaders in that area. I found this photograph of my ancestor in the Prints & Photographs Online Catalog on the Library of Congress website.

The April 2010 photograph of Joseph B. Mendizábal was submitted by Susan Smith-Bromiley and her cousin, Vicky Whitney Landau:

This photograph was taken at the Godeus Art Studio on Sixth Street, San Francisco. Handwritten on the back is the phrase: "Joe Mendizábal or Perry."

Born in San Francisco in 1871, Joseph B. Mendizábal was the second son of José I. Mendizábal Cantera of Mexico City and Zacatecas, Mexico, and Merced Sanches-Castellanos Sanches-Sevillanos of Bolanos, Jalisco, Mexico and San Francisco, California. [Note: Sanches also may be spelled Sanchez.]

Joseph and his elder brother Ismael attended the Spring Valley School in San Francisco where they lived with their mother, Merced, and stepfather, Joseph Politta, a dairy man and grocer.

In the 1880s Joseph held employment as a messenger for the American District Telegraph Company and later as a carriage painter. He lived in San Jose and later in Alameda. In July 1891, Joseph was the best man at his brother's wedding in San Francisco.

By 1902, Ismael was living in Alameda, and their sister, Isabel Mendizábal Schmitz Blasi, was living in Berkeley but there is no sign of Joseph. We cannot find him in the 1900 U.S. Census. The last known mention of Joseph Mendizábal is in his mother's 1904 obituary in which he is listed as one of her children.

According to family legend, Joseph ran away because of employment issues and changed his name, possibly to Perry. What really happened to Joseph? Did he change his name to Joe Perry or assume some other name? Does anyone know the man in this photo? If you can help please email Susan.

The January 2010 photo of the Livingstones of Nova Scotia was submitted by Jane Lindsey:

A great aunt had these photographs of my second great-grandparents, Andrew and Matilda "Ellen" (Wilson) Livingstone of McLeod's Crossing, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. I loved the fact that Ellen had fur on her winter coat. The family was not well-to-do – Andrew was a coal miner.

Ellen died on February 5, 1917. Their daughter, my great-grandmother, was living in New York at the time. She began the long trip home when she was notified of her mother's death. By the time she arrived home she had also lost her father, Andrew, who died on February 20, fifteen days after his wife.

On a visit to Cape Breton, a cousin and I were doing research and I suggested that we go to the library to look for obituaries. I had their death records, but I was having trouble finding their siblings and learning what had happened to their children. My cousin remarked that Andrew and Ellen were too poor to have obituaries, but knowing their exact dates of death, we headed to the library.

Imagine my delight when I found these notices!

Sydney Daily Post, Wednesday, February 7, 1917, page 5, under Local & General News: "The LATE MRS LIVINGSTONE - The death occurred at her home yesterday morning of Mrs. Andrew Livingstone of McLeod's Crossing. She had contracted a cold which later turned into pneumonia from which she died. The late Mrs. Livingstone had lived in town for a good many years. She was 76 years old and is survived by her husband and two children. Mrs. Knowles of NY and Charles at home. She is also survived by five brothers and one sister. David Wilson of McLeod's Crossing, William with an ambulance Corp in England, Benjamin and Vincent in Dominion. Henry in Glace Bay. The sister is Mrs Lewis of Glace Bay."

Sydney Daily Post, Wednesday, February 21, 1917, page 5, under Local & General News: "Death of A. Livingstone - The death of Andrew Livingstone occurred Monday at his home, McLeod's Crossing. He did not long survive his wife who died only a couple of weeks ago. He was 76 years of age and lived at McLeod's crossing for 16 years coming from Low Point. He is survived by one son Charles at home. One daughter Mrs. Knowles of NY. Four sisters also survive. Mrs. David Wilson of Reserve. Mrs Daniel McSween of MacKay's Crossing, Mrs William Kelly of Nashua NH and Mrs Daniel McNeil of New Glasgow." 

The February 2010 photo of the Jonathan Johnson family of Jeffersontown, Jefferson County, Kentucky was submitted by Jane Hufft:

Jonathan Johnson was born a slave, probably in Kentucky, the birthplace listed in the 1870 census. His owner was Jacob Omer of Jeffersontown, Kentucky, my ancestor. There is a written family account that tells how Jonathan was a playmate of Jacob's children. This lovely photograph of Jonathan's handsome family, probably taken about 1877, has been handed down the OMER line, my mother's line, to me. Set in a beautiful black carved frame, it always hung on the wall in each Omer household that inherited it in turn. Jacob Omer (there were several men by this name in the large Omer clan) was reputed to be a hard master, and one of his sons, my direct ancestor, left Kentucky to settle in Illinois because he could no longer abide living in a slave state. The records show that Jonathan remained in contact with another son of Jacob's, George W. Omer, and that George settled Jonathan's will when he died in Louisville, Kentucky in the early twentieth century.

In the photo, Jonathan Johnson is with his wife and six children, whose names can be assigned, based on the Jefferson County, Kentucky 1870 census for Jeffersontown, by their cited ages, and their heights in the photo, probably as follows, left to right: Kate, William, Isabel, Marcus, Eliza, and George. Jonathan and his wife, Elizabeth, farmed in Jefferson County on land given to him by the Omer family after the Civil War was over, as the story goes, and the census listing bolsters that account. The children in the photo are wearing dresses that look like they were made, probably by Elizabeth, from the same bolt of fabric. Efforts to trace Jonathan's descendants past 1910 have not yet been successful.

The society thanks KTVU, host Rosy Chu and producer Grace Kaddu for the opportunity to promote the California Genealogical Society on Bay Area People.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Watch Jane Tomorrow on KTVU Channel 2!

Set your DVRs!

The California Genealogical Society was contacted on Monday for a last minute on-air interview on KTVU Channel 2. Past-president Jane Knowles Lindsey was able to schedule the time and a seven minute piece on the society was taped to air this weekend.

Tune into Bay Area People with Rosy Chu airs tomorrow, Saturday, May 29, 2010 at 6:30 a.m. on KTVU, Channel 2 and on Sunday, May 30, 2010 at 9:00 a.m. on KICU, Channel 36.

Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

San Francisco Bay Area Genealogy Calendar: June 2010 Published

June family history offerings have been posted to the San Francisco Bay Area Genealogy Calendar. The calendar is a collection of local genealogical society events – seminars, classes, workshops and meetings – within a 75 mile radius of San Francisco.

The monthly list of Bay Area genealogy programs continues to grow as more societies submit their items to the calendar.

If you would like your group's events added to the calendar, please email the information by the 20th of each month for publication on the 25th. (Put "SFBA Calendar" in the subject line.)


 Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Using Microsoft Word 2007 for Genealogy - June 26, 2010

Saturday, June 26, 2010
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

California Genealogical Society Library
2201 Broadway, Suite LL2
Oakland, California 94612

Word 2007 is a powerful tool for writing family histories, letters, and so much more.

In this workshop, Tim Cox will show you how to:

• navigate around the ribbon and learn where things are located
• create and save documents
• use bullets
• insert images into a document
• create headers and footers

and more!

Laptops are recommended but not required for this class. Participants will get some hands-on practice using instructor-created exercises. If you don't bring a laptop to class you may partner with someone and try the exercises at home.

This workshop is limited to fifteen participants and one of the free benefits for CGS members. Non-members fee is $20.00 (non-refundable) and can be applied towards a CGS membership the day of the workshop.

Preregistration is required.

Walk-ins will not be admitted.

Register online.


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library

Are You Heading South for the Jamboree?

It's almost time again! The Southern California Genealogical Society Jamboree returns Friday through Sunday, June 11 - 13, 2010, at the Burbank Airport Marriott Hotel and Convention Center.

The California Genealogical Society has Table 114 in the Exhibit Hall. Members are needed to help staff the table. Tim Cox has created an online form so members can let us know if they are going.

For detailed information about schedule, speakers, genealogy exhibitors and more, visit the Jamboree blog.

Attention members: Let us know if you are going!


Copyright © 2010 by Kathryn M. Doyle, California Genealogical Society and Library.

Second Edition: Carnival of Genealogical Societies – Collaboration

Welcome to the Second Edition of the Carnival of Genealogical Societies.

Grateful acknowledgment to the footnoteMaven for the carnival badge and elucidation:

The key to all good genealogical research starts with the society of other genealogists and in turn genealogy societies.

The topic for the second edition of the Carnival of Genealogical Societies is: Collaboration.

Does your society collaborate with other societies?
(genealogical, historical, lineage, etc.)
Or groups? (local library, family history center)
Why or why not? What works or needs improvement?

This edition of the carnival received only six submissions but each one offers unique and creative ways for societies to collaborate.

Terri Buster is a board member and vice president of the Little River County Genealogy Society in Arkansas. Their group has been together for seven years and they have used their time wisely to develop collaborative relationships with many groups in their corner of the world. Read Carnival of Genealogical Societies~ 2nd Edition~ Collaboration posted at Southwest Arkie.

Tina Sansone is a past board member of the Tennessee Genealogical Society. Tina shares lots of ideas in How Genealogical Societies Can Collaborate posted at Gtownma's Genealogy. I especially love her suggestions of how to bring local high schools into the fold.

Brenda Joyce Jerome C.G. brings an unexpected angle to the discussion with Collaboration Within a Genealogical Society posted at Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog. Brenda believes that societies must change in order to flourish. How does your group measure up?

Charles Hansen wears several hats for the Eastern Washington Genealogical Society. He notes "Collaboration with the Spokane Library has benefited both EWGS and the Spokane Public Library" and tells us more in Carnival of Genealogy Societies Collaboration posted at Eastern Washington Genealogical Society Blog.

Joan Miller is part of the public relations team of the Alberta Family Histories Society. Joan collaborated with executive members of the societies to write Carnival of Genealogical Societies: Collaboration posted at Alberta Family Histories Society Blog.

Kathryn Doyle offers A Collaborative Formula For Success at the California Genealogical Society and Library blog.

This concludes the second edition.

Call for Submissions!
The topic for the next edition of the Carnival of Genealogical Societies is: Uniquely Us!

How is your society unique? 
Tell us about something one-of-a-kind. Is it a program, project, or publication? A record set or archival holding? A certain procedure or way you handle meetings? This is your opportunity to tell why and how your society is special!

The deadline for submissions is July 7, 2010.

Please do indicate in your article that you are writing for the Third Edition of the Carnival of Genealogical Societies. Submit your blog article using the the carnival submission form provided by Blog Carnival. Please use a descriptive phrase in the title of any article you plan to submit and write a brief introduction to your articles in the "remarks" section of the form.

Past posts can be found on our blog carnival index page.