Do the family history of your genealogy

Often genealogists get very excited about connecting the generations. Finding the previous generation is our goal. But we can't forget to spend a minute to learn about the people on that pedigree chart and family group sheets. Don’t forget to do the family history part of genealogy. I was reminded of this recently.

I have known for years that one of maternal lines goes back to the 1600s in Massachusetts. Whenever I participate in the FamilySearch Relatives Around Me at RootsTech or other conferences, I have two groups of relatives: French Canadian and early American cousins. The names and dates are all researched. I didn’t need to do any more research work for these people as far as genealogy goes, so I ignored them. That was bad, because, as I found out last month, there are some cool heritage I was missing because I had not done my ‘family history.’

While at American Ancestors, part of the East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference, I looked for book on my ancestors the Bigelows. There was a whole long shelf for them. There are journals by the Bigelow Society there. There was a big book The Bigelow Family Genealogy Volume I, Six Generations of Descendants of John Biglo (1617-1703) of Watertown, Massachusetts. The book looked interesting, so I grabbed it. I think it is cool to see your ancestors’ names in a book. Some of you might agree. At the back of the book was the index. There were pages upon pages of an alphabetical listing of just Bigelow names. There was another smaller index for non-Bigelow names. I found my ancestors and followed my line, reading about each member of my direct line. I learned some family history. 

Quick side note. I speak on Canadian genealogy. One of my favourite topics to research and talk about is the filles du roi (King’s Daughters). Over 800 amazing ladies who helped form Canada. I did the researching in the 1980s but it was 20 years later before I researched some of these people. I have done this family history. I believe those who are their descendants should be proud to be part of that legacy. I am related to a few and I am very excited to claim them. In the United States, many are proud to be descendants of the Mayflower and Daughters (DAR) and Sons (SAR) of the American Revolution.   

The family history I learned from the book was about my ancestor, Paul Bigelow, born 21 Jan 1740 in Westborough, Worcester, Massachusetts. The Bigelow book states at the beginning of the American Revolution, Paul served for 11 days as a drummer in the local militia, beginning on 19 April 1775 in the battle of Concord and Lexington (the day the war began). The book continues to say that he also served near the end of the war, in 1783, and additional few months in between. I quietly started laughing because this made me a Daughter of the American Revolution (DAR). I have a close friend in Utah who loves the fact that she is a DAR. It is good to know about and be proud of your ancestry. I messaged her later that night to share the news.

I took a photo of the page and went downstairs where Katherine Borges was doing some research and helping others on another floor of the American Ancestors. Katherine Borges is a member of the DAR and spoke on DAR and DNA at the ECGGC that weekend. She has recently become the National Chair of the DAR DNA Network. Katherine is working on the efforts to introduce DNA evidence into the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) lineage verification process. I showed her my ancestor and she shared my enthusiasm. She emailed me the information to become part of the DAR.
Link: https://www.dar.org/discover/become-member 

The Bigelow book listed sources, which I recorded. I would have loved to look at those other books, which were available at American Ancestors but I had to go start the rest of the ECGGC conference.

I didn't know much about drummers during the Revolutionary War. This sparked my curiosity about the role of military drummers in the war. Following the conference, I delved online to learn more. Interestingly, most military drummers were typically young boys, making it notable that Paul was 35 years old in 1775.  His age raises questions about his enlistment as a drummer instead of a soldier. One of the videos, I have listed below, mentions he might not have been able to carry a musket in the ranks. Maybe, he was already a drummer. Despite whatever the reason, he chose to volunteer and serve. I found another Bigelow book that gave more information on his first service. His first service, he was part of the Westborough company of Minute Men. Unfortunately, I have yet to locate detailed records that provide further insight into his life to explain his choice.

The role of a drummer in the military extended far beyond simply energizing soldiers for a march, that I knew about. Drummers served as the camp's alarm clocks, using specific beats to signal key events throughout the day. These included reveille in the morning, mealtimes, work details, as well as fetching water or wood, and curfews at night.

During battles, distinct drum rhythms communicated critical commands to the troops. They indicated when to march forward, retreat, halt, turn, load weapons, and fire. Although Paul wasn’t firing a musket, his musical contributions were vital. Amid the chaos of white smoke, the thunder of musket fire, and the sounds of marching feet, no commander's voice could penetrate the battlefield; it was the drummers who kept the order amidst the turmoil. I am proud of Paul’s contribution. I also love listening to drums.

The conference also gave me another family history opportunity, which I had planned before I arrived. Part of the same family line as Paul, I have ancestors who were part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. While in Boston, I took a couple of hours to walk where my ancestors had lived way back in the 1600s.  

For those interested in learning more about military drummers, I recommend checking out the videos listed below.

Army Music of the Revolutionary War | In 3 minutes
https://youtu.be/03uRjm_klGs?si=Kp_2JnmHckweIwI7 

The History of Military Music, Episode 1: Music of the Revolution
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9FBfCWnEgY

Fife and Drum: Instruments of the Revolution
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0eN_XIFVJk

Fife and Drum Music and Communication during the American Revolution
This video shows examples of the different sounds
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3kR_h0xFHY

Do you have any war drummers in your ancestry?

American Ancestors visit during East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference

The East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference (ECGGC) just finished its fifth annual conference. We have had two previous virtual conferences and two hybrids: virtual and in person in Baltimore.

This year we were in Boston for America’s 250-year celebration. Dr. Adina Newman asked me to consider holding the East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference in Boston, MA. We were looking for a new location. Dave Lambert, from American Ancestors, also thought that would be a good idea. Unfortunately, he was gone during the time of the conference, so he didn’t join us to walk around our conference like he does at RootsTech. (photo below. RootsTech 2026)

Once we had booked and started planning, I contacted American Ancestors and asked if they had tours of their building. They did and yes, we could have tours added to our conference package. They have a variety of different types and genealogical experience level.

We picked the following two items. The description for these two items is from their website. One is a tour, and the other is the opportunity to do research for up to 6 hours. The research was not a “tour” but their staff were so helpful and friendly we were able to find what we wanted.

Guided Tour of the Brim-DeForest Library at American Ancestors
Discover the Brim-DeForest Library, a leading center for genealogical research and scholarship. During this tour, your group will learn about the library’s archives, services, and research tools, gaining insight into how family history and historical documents are preserved and explored. This tour is an ideal starting point for groups planning to spend additional time conducting research.

Brim-Deforest Library Research at American Ancestors
Spend time exploring your own family history in the Brim-DeForest Library. With access to millions of genealogical records and resources, your group can begin to uncover personal connections to the past. Library staff are available to assist with general questions as you navigate the collections. We recommend allowing at least 3–6 hours to make the most of your research experience.

Although they are located in Boston, their resources go beyond the Boston area. They have many Eastern Canadian records – since they are so close. But they also have books and records for all over United States. American Ancestors is an amazing resource.

All conference participants who went loved the tour, the opportunity to see the building, and to do research. We were only able to do two tours and the numbers are limited. Those who could not attend the tour were still able to go and do research and they loved it as well.

Family Bible

In 2005, I wrote an article for Brigham Young University Studies Journal. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have letters in their archive, written between brothers in the 1830s. One lived in Tynsborough, Massachusetts and Timothy Bancroft lived in Clay County, Missouri. The letters mentioned many family members. I was asked to research the genealogy of all mentioned and how they were related. In my research, one set of records sited a Bancroft family bible as the source.

At RootsTech in 2024, American Ancestors had their library index on a computer. Dave Lambert, from American Ancestors and I looked for this Bible. It was listed in their inventory. There is an article written in the American Ancestors Journal about this discovery.

Before coming to American Ancestors while at ECGGC, I emailed them and asked if they could have this ready for me. They had it out for me to see. The actual Bible is still with the family. I would have loved to see the actual book, but I wouldn’t give up the family bible if it was my family, either. American Ancestors had copies of the pages with the genealogical information on it. I got to see that and was given a PDF version as well.

Check out what American Ancestors has available for your genealogical research. Their website has information about all their resources and their tours along with some free downloads.

https://www.americanancestors.org/ 

BYU Technology Lab: Relative Finder app

 The BYU Technology Lab is found at: https://fhtl.org

"This site is a non-profit student research lab focuses on connecting the human family through innovative information technology and genealogy, operating alongside related resources like the BYU Library Family History."

Students have created apps and programs to help with the family history work. These programs are available on this website.

Below is the website's home page showing their photo from RootsTech 2026. 

Relative Finder 

One of their most popular apps is Relative Finder. To use this app you must have your family tree on
FamilySearch. The description of the app is: 

"Find your relatives today! Relative Finder allows you to find relatives through the built in groups provided, and allows you to create your own groups to see how you are related to your friends, co-workers, and other famous people."

Direct link to Relative Finder click here.

When within the same building at a conference or church, we can use FamilySearch's Relatives Around Me. This is so much fun. Cousins can connect and possibly share information about ancestors. 

But when attending a conference virtually Relatives Around Me does not work, as you have to be within 100 feet for it to work. As more and more conferences are now virtual, this is one reason why you would want to use Relative Finder. 

Virtual Conferences

For the virtual attendees of the East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference 2025, we created a group. Everyone attending the conference could join the group and view their relatives who were also attending the conference. A link to the group was sent only to those attending the conference. 

My closest relative is another one of the committee planning members! We both have ancestors in Quebec. To see the relationship between you and a relative, click on the relative's name. 

The following new screen appears illustrating how you are related. This is at the top of the screen. 

Below the two of you, is listed the specifics of the relationship. Your family is listed on the left. Relatives line is on the right. I have only shown our partial relationship below, for privacy. This will list the connected line back to you. 

Famous People
You can also use this app to see if you are related to any famous people. 
Below is the right side of the Home screen which has a list of famous people topics. Click on the boxes of the topics you want to see if you are related to any famous people of that topic. 

I clicked Astronauts. Here is a partial list of the results.

The list continues on, to the 15th cousin. A total of 20 astronauts. 

Try it out. Have some fun with the famous people. 

Create a group of friends, church members, or genealogical society. If you are organizing a virtual conference at it to your fun. 

BYU Students promoted family history resources at RootsTech 2026. Read the full article at:
https://universe.byu.edu/campus/byu-students-promote-family-history-resources-at-rootstech-2026

Genealogical Education

I would like to share my genealogical educational journey so far, with emphasis on what I am doing now. I will also list some options for you to think about if you are interested in learning more about family history research. Before I explain my current education, I would like to share my previous genealogical education. I enjoy learning and taking courses, probably from the teacher in me.

I took some individual genealogical courses online from Brigham Young University such as Ireland Genealogy research, American Law, and life history writing. I then began working on a bachelor’s degree which included a certificate and an associate degree in Family History Research from Brigham Young University – Idaho. The courses were very well presented and taught. At graduation, I walked across the same stage I had 45 years earlier.

I was able to research and write multiple research reports according to their format. The last course, 499 specialty research, I had the opportunity to do work on a narrative report to prepare for what I thought at the time would be my next step. This class also explained two certifications I might want to complete next. The options highlighted were the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) and the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen).

My first choice was Board for Certification of Genealogists because they had a Lecturer certification. Once the BCG is earned, I would work on the lecturer certification. As a speaker and educator I wanted this certification. To learn about this certification visit the following.

• Board for Certification of Genealogists   https://www.bcgcertification.org
• Legacy Family Tree Webinars has a webinar
  Applying for BCG Certification: A Step-by-Step review of the 2025 Application Guide.
  The video explains the process of obtaining the BCG Certification.
  https://familytreewebinars.com/webinar/applying-for-bcg-certification-a-step-by-step-review-of-the-2025-application-guide 

The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists certification is done for a specific location. They had recently added Western Canada as one of the locations. A friend, Linda Yip, was the first to certify in the region. ICAPGen had also created a Lecturer certification.

With the Western Canada region created and the lecturer certification added, I decided to start with the ICAPGen. At BYU Idaho I learned what was needed for their classes. For ICAPGen certification, I needed to know their requirements. ICAPGen provides study groups. I signed up for the Four Generation Project Study Group. The study group was amazing. I learned exactly what was expected and how they grade the report. It is a little bit different than what BYU-I asked for. The purpose of the study group is to revise and improve one generation of the Four Generation project. We were taught as a group and then broke into small groups with our mentor. Mentors helped two students with what they specifically need to improve to be able to pass and answer questions.

After submitting the first half of one generation of our full report, two other classmates read and commented on our report. We had the opportunity to evaluate two other students’ reports. We then finished the second half of the first generation. Two other students read and added their thoughts, and I read two more reports. All of this was very educational. They also have study groups for the testing part of the certification. To learn more about ICAPGen certification visit the following

• Website https://icapgen.org
• The Study Group information https://icapgen.org/study-groups.

I am working on finalizing my research report to submit. Some people register for a second study group to fine tune another generation before submitting their project. Once I earn my AG, I will work on my AGL.

Are you thinking about wanting to learn more or hone your skills? Here are some additional options.

First, the following are two websites that list many educational options.

FamilySearch Wiki has a page listing education opportunities, which is divided by country. 
https://www.familysearch.org/en/wiki/Professional_Genealogy_Educational_Opportunities_-_International_Institute

Conference Keeper website also has a list 
https://conferencekeeper.org/genealogy-education/

Different types of education opportunities
The following are options I wanted to highlight. Some are listed on the sites above.

Institutes
There are a few institutes held throughout the year. These are usually a weeklong intense learning about a specific subject such as a language to read documents in another language, research in an area, recording family history. Many now include an online option. Well known options are GRIP is in Pittsburg and SLIP is in Salt Lake City.

Genealogical Studies (International Institute of Genealogical Studies: IIGS)
IIGS provide courses for 12 different certificates. The certificates include different locations throughout the world, methodology, historian, and DNA. To learn more check out their website at https://genealogicalstudies.com/.

Area Certifications
Check out areas you are researching to see if courses are offered in your research area. If there are courses, check to see if they also have certificates as well. Here are two unique Canadian certificates.

Genealogical institute of the Maritimes
https://www.genealogicalinstitute.ca

Saskatchewan Genealogical Society Certification Courses
https://saskgenealogy.com/education/certification-courses

DNA Certification
Investigative Genetic Genealogy Accreditation Board (IGGAB).
As I volunteer with mitoYDNA.org, I want to earn this certificate. This will most likely be my next project after the AG and AGL. I will also at some time complete the CG and CGL.

From their website they state:
“IGGAB has addressed the urgent need for ethical standards and proof of proficiency in this rapidly developing field by developing professional standards and an examination process that allows applicants to become an Accredited Investigative Genetic Genealogist (AIGG).”
https://www.iggab.org

Conferences and webinars
These are always great opportunities to learn in a variety of places. Many genealogical societies hold webinars. Check out the genealogical society where you are researching to see what they offer.

What are your next plans?
Enjoy the learning and have fun!

Legacy FamilyTree Webinars (MyHeritage) announce French sessions

You may or may not have received an email from MyHeritage announcing their launch of a French-language Webinar Series.

Daniel Horowitz stated:

"Starting October 7, a new series of live genealogy webinars will be offered entirely in French, alongside more than 100 French-language sessions now available on demand.

"This is an exciting addition for French-speaking genealogists worldwide, and a great resource to share with anyone in your community who speaks French or researches in French-language records."

Why is this exciting for me?

During the summer, I received an email from Geoff at Legacy Webinars telling me about this French launch. Then more exciting, he asked me if they could add one of my sessions to this new library! Of course I said, yes! 

The link to my session filles du roi aux meres dune nation in French is below. You need a Legacy Webinar account to watch and obtain handout.  

https://familytreewebinars.com/webinar/filles-du-roi-aux-meres-dune-nation/

The handout has also been translated into French. 

My original session Daughters of the King to Mothers of a Nation in English is at:

https://familytreewebinars.com/webinar/daughters-of-the-king-to-mothers-of-a-nation/

How does this benefit you?

The first three live sessions (all free to attend) are:

Filae : la maison des archives originales françaises with Yann Guillerm, Community Manager and Editor at Filae, Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 2 P.M. GMT / 10 A.M. EST
Explorer vos racines en France : méthodes et ressources en ligne avec les collections de MyHeritage with Marie Cappart, historian and professional genealogist, Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 2 P.M. GMT / 10 A.M. EST
Explorer vos racines au Luxembourg : archives locales et ressources MyHeritage with Liliane Hierro, professional genealogist and author, Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 2 P.M. GMT / 10 A.M. EST

The full list of French sessions are at:

https://familytreewebinars.com/webinar-library/?language=french