Special Interest Groups will be held on Thursday, April 16th, from 7:45 to 9 p.m. They offer participants an informal opportunity to get together with others with similar interests to discuss ideas for genealogy research on a particular topic. Room locations will be posted at the Conference. The SIGS are:
Rhode Island Research:
Looking for Rhode Island ancestors? What records can be found, and where will you find them? We’ll discuss the standard sources and some which are more obscure. Come with your questions. Hosted by Helen Smith.
DNA Research:
Genetic genealogy is the use of DNA as it relates to family history. DNA is one of the most powerful tools available to modern genealogists. Join us for a discussion about available tests, testing companies, and how personal genomics can help you advance your family history when your paper trail runs out. Hosted by Jennifer Zinck and Blaine Bettinger.
Genealogy Blogging:
What is a genealogy blog? Do you read genealogy blogs? Do you write your own blog? Have you ever thought of starting your own? Come meet some bloggers and learn all about blogging! Hosted by Heather Wilkinson Rojo.
Irish-American Research:
Can’t find the place of origin for your Irish ancestor? Come join Michael Brophy as he leads a discussion group with other Irish-American researchers. We will discuss sources and strategies for finding your elusive Irish ancestors across the Atlantic. We will also discuss the ever-growing world of Irish research over the internet and the best sources to use for doing Irish research here at home and in Ireland. Hosted by Michael Brophy.
French-Canadian Research:
Come to this discussion of French Canadian genealogy, hosted by the American-French Genealogical Society. Learn about available resources and tips to find your ancestors. Ask questions, and share your knowledge with the group. One topic will be the “King’s Daughters,” or “Les Filles du Roi.” If you have traced your line back to one of these women and have participated in our certificate program, please wear your pin. Enjoy some French Canadian music before and after our discussion. Some light refreshments will be served. Hosted by Jan Burkhart.
Italian Research:
Do you have Italian ancestors? Italian genealogical research has exploded in the last 15 years. The resources available to today’s family historian will amaze you. Bring along your research, problem ancestors, and questions about Italian records and hopefully we will be able to give you new avenues and sources to further your family tree in Italy and the US. Hosted by Marcia Iannnizzi Melnyk.
Jewish Genealogy:
Come join us to talk about strategies and hints for researching your Jewish ancestors. Depending on your interests, we might look at how to find the records of your immigrant ancestors, both here and in the “old country”; how to find people if they’ve changed their names; how to find the villages that your ancestors came from; and how to locate families lost or scattered by the Holocaust. Bring your questions and research problems and we’ll look at both online and local resources that could help you in your search. Hosted by Meredith Hoffman.
Scandinavian Research:
Connect with other genealogists doing research in Scandinavia. This is an ideal way to network with others who share your interest. This special interest group offers something for genealogists at any level. Hosted by Sharon Christenson.
Becoming a Professional Genealogist:
You love the thrill of the research hunt and think it would be heaven to be paid, too. Learn what you need to consider before and during your transition to becoming a professional. Hosted by Shellee Morehead.