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My Lectures

I have presented to numerous Genealogical Societies and Events and would be happy to present for your society or event. See the list below for previously lectures. I especially love to speak about Western New York, West Virginia, Native Peoples, and Land Records.

Rootstech 2026
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The 5Ws of West Virginia Vital Records

Stop guessing where your West Virginian ancestors' vital records might be. This session will outline the availability of county-level and statewide vital records, demonstrate how to utilize the state’s online database efficiently, and explain the process for requesting records. You’ll go home able to locate documents faster and document your sources with confidence.   https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/the-5-ws-of-west-virginia-vital-records

Georgia Genealogical Society - November 2025

Map It! Using Maps in Genealogy

Maps are more than just geographical representations; they are windows into the past, offering rich insights into the lives and locations of those who came before us. Maps can transform your genealogical research, revealing stories and connections waiting to be found. This popular presentation has been given numerous times and discusses five types of maps: Political, Enumeration, Cadastral, Insurance, and Bird's Eye View (Panoramic).

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Rochester Genealogical Society - September 2025

On the Frontier: Early Migration into Western New York

Western New York was once a frontier, full of opportunity. This presentation will explore the lives of early settlers, where they came from, and why they chose this land. Come learn how the region grew—and how your ancestors might have been part of that story. A similar presentation was also given to the Western New York Genealogical Society in June 2025.

New York Genealogical & Biographical Society Conference 2025

Native American Research In New York State

Stories of Native American ancestry are common in many family histories, but it’s crucial to verify these claims through research. This presentation will explore the Native American tribes of New York, their history, and the records needed to uncover the truth about these ancestral connections.

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Allen County Public Library

Pioneers and Pedigrees: Early Western New York Research

Discover the untamed past of Western New York! Once a vast wilderness, it became a bustling crossroads in the 19th century. While vital records are scarce for most of this century, an array of valuable records are available for your research. Learn about the rich past of this region, including the role of the Holland Land Company, and explore the records that can help you find your ancestors.

Western Pennsylvania Genealogical Society Conference - June 2024

Interweaving History and Heritage: Native American Genealogical Research in Western Pennsylvania

Learn strategies to overcome difficulty in Native American research by exploring the region’s tribal history, migration, and records available in the search for Native ancestors.

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