Topic: Finding Immigration Records
30 to 60 minutes depending on time available. This presentation describes how to find information on immigrant ancestors, particularly when and where they entered the U.S. Sample immigration documents are shown and discussed. A variety of source are described, including reference books, free online sources, and subscription-only online sources.
Recommended Group Size: 15 to 50 participants.
Area of Presentation: Charlotte, DeSoto, Glades, Sarasota, Lee and Collier County
Topic: Free Genealogy Blogs
30 minutes. Anyone can subscribe to free genealogy blogs to learn about genealogy techniques and sources, and to network with others interested in genealogy. Most blogs are free and are written by professional genealogists. Learn how to find blogs, how to determine if they are for you, and how to subscribe.
Recommended Group Size: 15 to 50 participants
Area of Presentation: Charlotte, Sarasota, Lee, DeSoto, Glades, and Collier counties
Topic: Scanning and Digital Photography for Genealogy
45 minutes. What do you do when you locate a physical record that you want to save? Using a scanner and digital camera is considered a basic skill in genealogy research today. Learn about the equipment used, how to make digital images, how to select the best format for the purpose, how to store them, and how to access hidden features such as metadata and GPS information. Equipment demonstrations can be included when time allows.
Recommended Group Size: 15 to 50 participants
Area of Presentation: Charlotte, Sarasota, Lee, DeSoto, Glades, and Collier counties
Topic: ABCs of Genealogy Sources
45 to 60 minutes. Genealogy without documentation is mythology. Sources are critical to genealogy, and not all sources are created equal. Understand how to distinguish an original source from a derivative source. Learn how to evaluate sources and make good decisions when conflicting facts are listed in several sources.
Recommended Group Size: 15 to 50 participants
Area of Presentation: Charlotte, Sarasota, Lee, DeSoto, Glades, and Collier counties
Topic: All About the Charlotte County Genealogical Society Inc. (CCGSI)
A 10 to 20 minute informative presentation with handouts that gives the evolution of genealogy from a small dedicated group of genealogists and certain religious groups to the second largest hobby in United States. It gives practical information on how to get started and how the Internet has revolutionized genealogical research.
