2009 GenealogyBlog Genealogy Events Calendar

It is our goal to publish the most comprehensive listing of genealogy-related events available anywhere. Please email your events to Lmeitzler “at” gmail.com as soon as you have your event place & date set. Send updates as you get more details. You may also mail copy to: GenealogyBlog.com, PO Box 830, Bountiful, UT 84011. All events that are half-day or more are welcomed. This isn’t the place for general meeting announcements.

The GenealogyBlog Genealogy Event Calendar is in REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER. The events that we know of farthest into the future are listed first. By laying the GenealogyBlog Genealogy Event Calendar out in this way, we are able to leave events posted AFTER THEY HAVE TAKEN PLACE. We invite our readers to send short summaries of the events following the event itself. Commentary on such things as attendance numbers, vendors, accommodations, the program, and so forth are welcomed. Please include your name, city, state, and if outside the U.S., your country. Give the date, name and place of the event first please.

Please report errors, bad links, additions & corrections to me at: Lmeitzler “at” gmail.com

The easiest way to SEARCH the Event Calendar is just do a “control f” on your keyboard and type in a place, word, or date you are searching for.

The following Calendar is for 2009 only. Click Here for 2010 genealogy events.

GENEALOGY RELATED SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS, CONFERENCES, FAIRS, RETREATS, CRUISES, REUNIONS, ETHNIC EVENTS, & INSTITUTES – In Reverse Chronological Order

December 6-12, 2009 – Salt Lake City, Utah

Do You Want to Make Gigantic Leaps in Locating Your Ancestors? Do you have brick-wall problems in your genealogy research? If so – plan on joining with GenealogyBlog Editor, Leland K. Meitzler, and Donna Potter Phillips at the 25th annual Salt Lake Christmas Tour to the Family History Library this December.
The Salt Lake Christmas tour is known for having the highest percentage of professional researchers per attendee of any Salt Lake research tour.
Why December? Early December is an ideal time to come to the Family History Library. The library isn’t crowded, as it is at other times of the year. The festivities in Salt Lake City are underway and the Christmas Tour Family is waiting with open arms for you to join them.
By joining us in Salt Lake City on a Salt Lake Christmas Tour, you will be in the right place – at the right time – to locate more ancestors than you may have ever found before.
For more information, see: www.SaltLakeChristmasTour.com , or call 801-949-7259.

November 7, 2009 – Grand Rapids, Michigan

The Western Michigan Genealogical Society is sponsoring their 55th Anniversary Seminar, with “The Genealogy Guys,” George Morgan and Drew Smith as the featured speakers. Two tracks will run with fours classes each. The program will take place at the Prince Conference Center at Calvin College. For more information, see: http://gotancestors.com/

November 4-6, 2009 – Albany, New York

The New York Genealogical & Biographical Society is sponsoring a three-day research trip to the New York State Archives and Library in Albany, New York. Registrants are to be provided with three days of assisted research at the Library and Archives, plus social events.
The program fee, including the banquet, reception, and all other arrangements, is $110 for NYGBS members, and $150 for non-members. A special room rate has been arranged at the Crowne Plaza at $99 per night. Call the hotel directly at 518-462-6611 and tell them you are attending the NYG&B program to get the rate. To register, contact Lauren Maehrlein, education “at” nygbs.org, phone 212-755-8532, ext. 36, or register online at: www.newyorkfamilyhistory.org

October 29-31, 2009 – Fort Wayne, Indiana

The International Black Genealogy Summit, “Reconnecting Lost Links” has been announced. This conference is to include all AAHGS chapters, the SIGs (Special Interest Groups) of larger societies, the independent black groups that make up the West Coast Summit as well as independent black genealogical and historical societies in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. For more information, see: www.blackgenealogysummit.com

October 26-31, 2009 – Salt Lake City, Utah

Family History Expos is sponsoring their Family History Library Research Retreat (October 2009). The classes are to be held at the Salt Lake Plaza Hotel, with daily research in the adjacent Family History Library. For more information, see: http://www.fhexpos.com/events/upcoming.php?event_id=47

24 October 2009 – Roswell, NM

The Wilson-Cobb History & Genealogy Research Library is sponsoring a seminar titled Genealogy “CSI”: Collecting, Selecting, Identifying Your Ancestors with J. Mark Lowe as the featured speaker.
His topics are: “Using the Internet for Genealogy and Research,” “Finding Your Landless Ancestors,” “Cemeteries as a Genealogical Resource,” and “Land Barons or Dirt Farmers: Finding Land Transactions.” For information, contact: Wilson-Cobb Research Library, PO Box 1216, Roswell, NM 88202, 575-622-3322, wilsoncobb “at” dfn.com

October 24, 2009 – Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

The Victoria Genealogical Society Seminar will be held, and will feature Dave Obee and Sherry Irvine. For more information, see: http://www.victoriags.org/

October 17, 2009 – Montgomery, California

The Monterey County Genealogy Society’s annual workshop features Karen Clifford. Karen will speak on “Electronic Resources for Solving Difficult Research Problems;” “Understanding Migration;” “Land Records from Colonial Times to the Present;” and “British Basics.” The lunch & syllabus are included in the registration fee. Free parking is available adjacent to Monterey Peninsula College Library/Technology Center. For registration additional information, see: www.mocogenso.org

October 17, 2009 – Louisville, Kentucky

On Saturday, October 17, 2009, the Louisville Genealogical Society will hold its annual Family History Seminar and Book Fair at the Beargrass Christian Church, 4100 Shelbyville Road in Louisville.
The featured guest speaker is genealogist George G. Morgan of Tampa, Florida. Mr. Morgan is president of Aha! Seminars, Inc., a company providing training to library personnel and genealogists since 1996. For more information about Mr. Morgan, go to his Web site at http://ahaseminars.com/
For the seminar, Mr. Morgan’s topics are (1) Bring Them Back to Life: Developing an Ancestor Profile; (2) State-Land States & Federal-Land States: Researching U.S. Land Records; (3) The U.S. Naturalization Process and Documents: 1790-1954; (4) Using the HeritageQuest Databases.
Everything except the guest lectures and lunch are included in the $5 general admission charge. This year’s free classes include Adoption Research (led by Susan Brown), Library Resources (Joe Hardesty), Planning a Research Trip (Betty Darnell), On-line Databases (Ivan Baugh), Orphan Trains: A History (Mel Arnold), Whole Family Research (Deborah Campisano), Organization 101 (Barbara Davis), and Cemetery Preservation (Ann Johnson).
The book fair attracts both local and out-of-state vendors. In addition, we have a silent auction including genealogical, regional, and other related items.
A box lunch may be ordered with preregistration. Further seminar information and a registration form will be posted on the Web site as they become available: http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~kylgs/seminar2.html Send inquiries to lougensoc@yahoo.com

October 17, 2009 – Columbus Ohio

The Ohio Chapter of Palatines to America, specializing in German Genealogy, is sponsoring their 2009 Annual Fall Seminar. The featured speakers will be John T. Humphrey, CG and Ann Miller Scott, MSLS, speaking on “Published Sources for German Ancestors,” “Moravians in the 18th Century,” an “Update on the PalAm Library Collection,” and “German-American Newspapers.” For more information and registration online, see: www.oh-palam.org Write: Ohio Chapter PalAm, PO Box 141260, Columbus, OH 43214

October 17, 2009 – Surrey, British Columbia

The annual tri-stake family history conference will take place at the Surrey Stake Center, 6270 126th Street. For information, see: http://www.cangenealogy.com/tri-stake/index.htm

October 16-17, 2009 – Redding, California

Family History Expos is sponsoring their California Family History Expo, to be held at the Redding Convention Center, 747 Auditorium Drive. The hours are from 8 am to 6 pm, with registration opening at 7 am on Friday, October 16, 2009. Early Bird registration for both days – ends August 24, 2009 is $65; Pre-registration for both days – ends October 10, 2009 is $75; At the door – $85. One-day cost at the door is $45. For more information, See: http://www.fhexpos.com/events/upcoming.php?event_id=52

October 16-17, 2009 – Lake Charles, Louisiana

The Southwest Louisiana Genealogical and Historical Library’s second “Branching Out in Genealogy” Seminar will feature Carolyn Earle Billingsley. For more details, see: www.calcasieu.lib.la.us, or e-mail: gen “at” calcasieu.lib.la.us or phone 337-437-3490.

October 14-17, 2009 – Independence, Ohio

The annual Seminar of the Czechoslovak Genealogical Society International will be held in the Cleveland area. The site of the program is at the Holiday Inn Cleveland South. The featured speakers are Lisa A Alzo, Rudy Bachna, Milan Belej Ph.D., Mark Bigaoette, Helene Cincebeaux, Richard D. Custer, Rev. Jan Dus, Gregory C. Ference, John J. Grabowski, Ph.D., Veronica Ratica Hipp, Karen Hobbs, Joe Horack, Dr. Michael Kopanic, Dr. Mirosalv “Mirek” Koudelka, Donald N. Kozlowski, Jon Righetti, Roy Ruchka, and Stephen J. Sebesta. For more information, see: http://www.cgsi.org/news.asp?intNewsID=168

October 10, 2009 – Winchester, Virginia

The Virginia Genealogical Society and The Shenandoah Valley Genealogical Society are cosponsoring a conference in Winchester, VA October 9, 2009 Reception from 5 – 7 at the Stewart Bell Jr. Archives at Handley Library in downtown Winchester. The archives will be open to researchers who are attending the conference. October 10,2009 Conference from 9 – 4 at The Conference Center at Winchester Medical Center. Speakers are Dorothy Boyd-Bragg, Victor “Vic” Dunn, Pam K. Sayre and Richard “Rick” Sayre. Make your lodging arrangements now, as a block of rooms has been set aside for this event at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, 142 Fox Ridge Lane, Winchester, VA 22603, phone (540) 667-7050. For more information, see: http://www.vgs.org/events.htm

October 10, 2009 – Tacoma, Washington

HQRL is proud to announce that the program for the Heritage Quest Research Library Autumn Quest Seminar to be held at the Tacoma Elks Club on October 10, 2009 will be “Digging for your Ancestors Using Google” by Daniel M. Lynch of Waterbury, Connecticut. Dan is the author of the best selling book: “Google Your Family Tree” and is a nationally known speaker.

Dan is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists (APG), a Life Member of the Connecticut Society of Genealogists where he also served as board member and vice president, and is a frequent lecturer at local and national genealogy conferences. He has been featured on several television programs, including ABCs Good Morning America, has published and maintains several popular genealogy Web sites, and his articles have been published in leading genealogy publications including Internet Genealogy, Family Chronicle, Family Tree Magazine, and the APG Quarterly.
You can find out more about Dan and his book at www.googleyourfamilytree.com

Many of you have already purchased this outstanding book, and Dan will be happy to sign your copy at the seminar.

We will also be selling the book at the seminar for $34.95. Please indicate on your reservation form if you wish for us to reserve you a copy. (He will autograph those as well.)

We anticipate that we will have a large turnout for this program se we recommed that you sign up early since space will be limited at the Elks club.

More information, registration forms, and directions to the Elks Club can be found on our website at www.HQRL.com
Our phone at the library is 253-863-1806
Here is a direct link to the form: http://www.hqrl.com/AQ09brochure3.pdf

October 5-9, 2009 – Salt Lake City, Utah

The International Society for British Genealogy and Family History will gather in Salt Lake City, Utah. For more information, see: www.isbgfh.org/

October 2-3, 2009 – Neenah, Wisconsin

The Wisconsin State Genealogical Society will sponsor its annual Fall 2009 Seminar, with featured speaker, Michael John Neill. It will be held at the Best Western Bridgewood Resort Hotel & Conference Center, 1000 Cameron Way. A Friday afternoon workshop is scheduled for October 2. For more information, see: http://wsgs.wetpaint.com/

September 27-October 2, 2009 – Salt Lake City, Utah

The National Genealogical Society is sponsoring their 2009 Fall Research Trip to Salt Lake City. Trip Directors will be Sandra MacLean Clunies, CG, and Shirley Wilcox Langdon, CG, FNGS. Accommodations will be at the Salt Lake Plaza Hotel. Space is limited to 30 attendees. Register online at www.ngsgenealogy.org/cs/research_trips . The registration deadline is June 30, 2009.

September 26, 2009 – Tampa, Florida

The Florida Genealogical Society (Tampa) presents its annual Fall Seminar at the Dale Mabry Campus of Hillsborough Community College with Elizabeth Shown Mills, CG, CGL, FASG, FNGS, FUGA. The distinguished, internationally recognized genealogy expert, speaker, author, and researcher will present four excellent lectures: “The Elusive Ancestor: There’s No Such Thing as “Too Poor to Trace;” “Sources & Citations Simplified: From Memorabilia to Digital Data to DNA;” “The Identity Crisis: Right Name, Wrong Man? Wrong Name, Right Man?;” “Okay, I Got the Neighbors – Now What Do I Do with Them? “
In addition, an informal luncheon workshop about getting started with your genealogy will be presented. Box lunches will be available for purchase on the day of the conference. Vendors, exhibitors, and door prizes will also be available. For more information and a registration form are available at http://fgstampa.org

September 26, 2009 – Naperville, Illinois

The Fox Valley Genealogical Society is sponsoring its annual all-day conference “Colonial Connections,” featuring Lloyd DeWitt Bockstruck, supervisor of the Dallas Public Library Genealogy Section. Lloyd will speak on: “Colonial Migrations,” “Colonial Probates and Statutes,” “Surnames and Forenames,” and “The Scots-Irish in Colonial America.” Vendors will be in attendance. A continental breakfast & lunch are included. The hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Grace United Methodist Church, 300 E. Gartner Rd. For more information, phone: (630) 728-2624 or (630) 978-8444, or email ilfvgs “at” gmail.com. Register online at http://www.ilfvgs.org/

September 26, 2009 – Bangor, Maine

The Maine Genealogical Society is sponsoring their annual conference. The speakers include Joe Anderson, and Marcia Iannizzi Melnyk. The workshop topics include: Deed Research, Taking an Oral History, Franco-American Research with Quebec Records, Immigrant Experience – Sailing to America, Maine’s Early Churches, New Trends in Internet Research, Immigrant Research Strategies, Forms, Forms and More Forms, Breaking Through Brick-walls, Native American Genealogy in the Northeast and The Great Irish Potato Famine. For more information, see: http://www.maineroots.org/

September 25-26, 2009 – Springfield, Missouri

The Ozarks Genealogical Society is sponsoring their annual conference with Thomas W. Jones, Ph.D., CG, CGL, FASG as their featured speaker. The seminar will be held at the University Center Convention Center. For more information, see: http://ozarksgs.org/

September 25-26, 2009 – Helena, Montana

The 20th Montana State Genealogical Society Conference “Growing Genealogy” will feature Jana Sloan Broglin. For more information, email: blgsmarket “at” aol.com

September 24-27, 2009 – Addison, Texas

The Hispanic Organization for Genealogy and Research (HOGAR) is sponsoring the 30th Texas Hispanic Genealogical and Historical Conference. The Conference will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Addison (suburb of Dallas). For more information, see: http://hispanicgenealogyconference.webs.com. You may also contact Dorina Thomas, President of HOGAR de Dallas at dorinat “at” earthlink.net

September 20-27, 2009 – Edinburgh, Scotland

The New England Historic Genealogical Society is sponsoring their inaugural research tour to Edinburgh. The weeklong intensive research program will be based out of Scotland’s two premier genealogical repositories, The National Archives of Scotland (NAS) and the General Register Office for Scotland (GROS). For more information, see: www.newenglandancestors.org

September 19, 2009 – Pittsfield, Massachusetts

The Friends of the National Archives and Records Administration, Northeast Region, Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is sponsoring Life in the Past Lane VI. The event will be held at the Williams Inn in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Watch for information on the website: http://www.narafriends-pittsfield.org/

September 18-20, 2009 – Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

The British Isles Family History Society of Greater Ottawa will sponsor their annual seminar at the Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington St., Ottawa. Special focus is on Scotland. For more information, see: www.bifhsgo.ca/

September 17-19, 2009 – Independence, Missouri

The Hull Family Association Meeting will be held in the home of the Mid-Continent Public Library’s (New) Midwest Genealogy Center. It is the largest public genealogical library in the US. The HFA is an organization of over 400 members. They include anyone with surname: Hull, Hohl, Holl; and lines from England, Ireland and Germany. A special tour of the Genealogy Center is on the agenda. Visit them at http://www.hullfamilyassociation.org/meeting.shtml for registration information.

September 11-13 – Spokane, Washington

The Washington State Genealogical Society Annual Conference will feature Megan Smolenyak. The conference is hosted by the Eastern Washington Genealogical Society, and will be held at the Davenport Hotel in Spokane. The four-diamond Davenport Hotel will be the venue for the meetings, vendors, and meals and is offering special accommodations package. Single and double-occupancy rooms are $155 per night, triple are $165, and accommodations for four are $175 per night. Be sure to tell them you’re attending the conference in order to receive your discount! This is a one-day seminar with four tracks and two special lectures by Megan Smolenyak. Also available will be a special dinner with Megan Friday night and breakfast Sunday morning. For more information, see: www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/%7Ewasgs/

September 10-11, 2009 – New York, New York

The Education Committee of the New York Genealogical & Biographical Society, in partnership with the Holland Society of New York and the New York Public Library, is sponsoring a two-day Dutch Research program.
Thursday, September 10, will be a full day of lectures presented by Harry Macy Jr., Dr. Firth Haring Fabend, Christopher Brooks, and Dr. Janny Venema. Friday, September 11, offers a day of assisted research at the New York Public Library’s Milstein Division of Genealogy and Local History and/or at the Holland Society library.
The two-day program is available to members of the NYG&B and members of the Holland Society for $150. Non-members may register at $200. Registration for the Thursday lecture program is $90 members and $125 non-members. To register, Email – Lauren Maehrlein: education “at” nygbs.org, phone 212-755-8532, ext. 36, or register online at www.newyorkfamilyhistory.org

September 9-14, 2009 – Rapid City, South Dakota

Hosted by the Black Hills GRHS Chapter, the 39th annual Convention of the Germans From Russia Heritage Society will be held in Rapid City. The host hotel is the Ramkota Best Western Hotel & Convention Center in Rapid City. For more information, see: http://www.grhs.org/

September 5-17, 2009 – Mediterranean – Greece

Join the Legacy Software team for a 12-day cruise of the Mediterranean / Greece on the luxurious Norwegian Cruise Lines Jade ship. This cruise starts in Barcelona and then goes to Rome, Naples / Pompeii, Dubrovnik, Venice, Athens, Ephesus, Istanbul. What a trip! For information, see: http://www.legacyfamilytree.com/CruiseInfo_2009med.asp

September 2-5, 2009 – Little Rock, Arkansas

The Federation of Genealogical Societies and the Arkansas Genealogical Society invite you to the 2009 Conference for the Nation’s Genealogists. Join us as “Passages through Time” presents 200 lectures, workshops, luncheons, a banquet, and some very special events. The speakers are from all over the U.S. and represent many of the best presenters you will ever hear. The topics include topics on research all over the U.S., some foreign research, research facilities, methodology, DNA, African American research, online databases, websites, professional genealogy, and so much more. A special feature is the wealth of topics directed at running successful genealogical societies. Each registrant receives a CD containing the syllabus of handouts for most of the lectures. The conference features a plethora of education combined with a lot of fun and genealogical discussion. Many genealogical, historical, and professional organizations have partnered with us for this conference.
The Exhibit Hall will be an exciting place. It is already half-full so don’t delay reserving a booth to promote and sell your organization, business, services, products, memberships or other genealogical and historical related information. FGS Conference booths cost less than a quarter of what booths generally cost at historical and medical conferences. It’s an affordable way to advertise your business, organization, or service to more than a thousand genealogists.
For more information, conference registration, or to reserve an Exhibit Hall booth, see: www.fgsconference.org. For continuing details, updates, extended information, and special announcements see the ongoing conference blog at www.fgsconferenceblog.org. Have a question? Email it to: FGSPublicity “at” fgs.org.

August 28-31, 2009 – Nottingham, England

The Halsted Trust is hosting a major family & local history conference, titled “Open the Door & Here Are the People.” Major speakers now booked for the conference include Richard Holmes, the renowned military historian, broadcaster and author; George Redmonds, the leading authority on English surnames and their origins; and Nick Barratt, the popular broadcaster, genealogist and writer. The event will take place at the East Midlands Conference Center in Nottingham. For more information, see: http://www.openthedoor.org.uk/

August 28-29, 2009 – Sandy, Utah

The Salt Lake City, Utah Family History Expo 2009 will be held at the South Towne Exposition Center at 9575 South State Street in Sandy, Utah. It is sponsored by the FamilySearch.org and Family History Expos.com

Registration at the door begins on Friday, August 28th at 7:00 am. The keynote address will be at 8:00 am. The exhibit hall opens to the public at 9:00 am. Classes begin after at 10:00 and run through 6 pm. The complete schedule can be found on line at http://www.fhexpos.com/events/event_schedule.php?event_id=50

Admission to the exhibit hall and keynote address is FREE to the public, and classes will be offered for a minimal fee.

• Pre-register for two days of classes at the low admission price of $68.00
• Registration after the 3rd will be $78.00. (Ends: Aug 24, 2009)
• One day at the door cost will be $48.00

http://www.fhexpos.com/events/upcoming.php?event_id=50 ($78 at the door) Pre-register online at http://www.FHExpos.com, by phone at 801.829.3295, or send a check to: Family History Expos; PO Box 187; Morgan, UT 84050.

August 26-30, 2009 – Orkney Springs, Virginia

Wholly Genes, Inc is sponsoring the 2009 Genealogy Conference and “Land Cruise.” This is Wholly Genes fifth annual genealogy conference, previously held on cruise ships. Economic conditions warrant our doing something a little bit different this year.
The 2009 conference will be held at the Shrine Mont Conference Center in historic Orkney Springs, Virginia. This rural setting provides a very inexpensive venue for the genealogy presentations and its proximity to Washington D.C. offers us the opportunity to follow those preparatory lectures with an all-day research trip to the extraordinary research repositories of the nation’s capital.
The speakers are John Philip Colletta, Ph.D.; Marie Varrelman Melchiori, CG, CGL; Patricia O-Brian Shawker, CG; and Craig Roberts Scott, CG. Users of The Master Genealogist software will also have the opportunity to learn from some of the most experienced TMG users, includingBob Velke, President of Wholly Genes Software; Lee Hoffman, beta tester and compiler of “Getting the Most Out of The Master Genealogist”; Terry Reigel, beta tester and author of “Primer for The Master Genealogist” and; representatives of the Wholly Genes technical support staff. For more information, see: http://www.whollygenes.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?screen=CRUISE

August 22, 2009 – Lafayette, Indiana

The Tippecanoe County Area Genealogical Society will sponsor a workshop, with featured speaker, Jeffrey A. Bockman. It will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 3224 Jasper St West Lafayette, IN 47906. The topics will be “No Birth Certificate? No Problem,” “Living With Brick Walls,” and ” A Gift That Money Can’t Buy.” For more information, see: http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~intcags/ – under Meetings.

August 15, 2009 – Brunswick, Maine

The Maine Highland Games will take place at Thomas Point Beach. For more information, see: http://www.mainehighlandgames.org/

August 8, 2009 – Madras, Oregon

The High Desert Celtic Festival and Highland Games will be held at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, Hwy 97 & Fairgrounds Rd. The featured headliner entertainers are the Wicked Tinkers; the program features the Scottish Highland Games, Celtic Dancers, Children’s Activities, Vendors of Fine Celtic Wares, Clan Representation, Southern Oregon Scottish Bagpipe Band, Festival Pub, food and fun! For more information, see: http://www.hdcs.net/festival.htm

August 7-8, 2009 – Jefferson City, Missouri

The Missouri State Genealogical Society will sponsor their annual conference at the Capital Plaza Hotel with featured speaker, Julie Miller, CGSM. Julie Miller is a Certified Genealogist with more than 30 years of genealogy experience. She is a newspaper columnist for the Broomfield Enterprise and is on the Board of Directors for the National Genealogical Society, Association of Professional Genealogists, and International Society of Family History Writers and Editors. Ms. Miller is the President of the Colorado Chapter of the Association of Professional Genealogists and Past President of the Colorado Genealogical Society. For more information, see: www.mosga.org/

August 2-7, 2009 – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Philadelphia will host the 29th annual IAJGS International Conference on Jewish Genealogy. It will e held at the Sheraton Philadelphia City Center Hotel at 17th and Race Street. For more information, see: www.jewishgen.org/jgsp/2009Conference.htm and http://www.philly2009.org/

August 1, 2009 – Newark, Delaware

The Wilmington Delaware Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is pleased to present “A Family History Event” on Saturday, August 1, 2009, from 9 am to 4 pm, at their meetinghouse in Newark, Delaware (500 W. Chestnut Hill Road), with the theme: “Around the World in a Day: Let Your Fingers Do the Searching.” Free.
Keynote speakers include Paul F. Smart and Paul G. Nauta from FamilySearch.org, and the author of “Google Your Family Tree,” Daniel Lynch. Classroom sessions, interactive exhibits and cultural rooms will focus on various online research sources and geographic regions of the world.
Come for an hour or stay for the day! For the beginning genealogist to the professional. For additional information and to register, please visit: www.afamilyhistoryevent.org

August 1, 2009 – Spokane, Washington

The Spokane Highland Games will be held on the South Lawn of the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana. Turn out for a day of entertainment, fun and education. Featured during the day will be: massed bands, pipe band exhibitions, individual piping, heavy athletics , highland dancing, children’s’ games and sheepdog exhibitions. Performances will include Scottish country dancing and live Celtic music. Ongoing throughout the day will highland cattle, food vendors, clan gathering, Scottish and Celtic vendors, and much more. For more information, see: http://www.spokanehighlandgames.org/

July 28-31, 2009 – Provo, Utah

The annual Conference on Family History and Genealogy will be sponsored by BYU. The theme is “Strengthening Ties That Bind Families Together Forever.” For information, see: http://ce.byu.edu/cw/cwgen/

July 25-26, 2009 – Edinburgh, Scotland

The Gathering 2009 Edinburgh will be held in Holyrood Park, which will host a magnificent Highland Games and Scottish Festival over the two days, then on the Saturday evening Clan members will parade up the historic Royal Mile and take their seats on the castle esplanade for a spectacular Clan Pageant. For more information, see: http://www.clangathering.org/

July 24-25, 2009 – Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The Federation of East European Family History Societies and the Society for German Genealogy of Eastern Europe is sponsoring their annual seminar, to be held at the Radisson Milwaukee North Shore. For information, see: http://www.feefhs.org/

July 21-26, 2009 – Grass Valley, California

The Cornish American Heritage Society and the California Cornish Cousins are sponsoring the 15th Gathering of Cornish Cousins. Speakers include Philip Payton, Valessa Beeman, Ros Paterson and others. For more information, see: www.cornishgathering.org

July 21-24 – Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland

The International Genealogy Festival will be held at the University of Strathclyde. The festival is one of Scotland’s National Homecoming Celebrations. It will have 3 main components: The Whigmaleery: four days of stand and exhibitors; The Coarum: lectures, exhibitions, events, and activities including Landmark Lectures by important figures and international specialists; The Come-All-Ye Ceildh – It wouldn’t be a Festival without one! For information, see: http://www.strathclydegenealogy.co.uk/

July 19-24, 2009 – Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

The Ottawa Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society and La Société de généalogie de l’Outaouais are sponsoring the first Semaine de généalogie Genealogy Week. This will be an intensive one-week hands-on program. Researchers will travel with the group to resource centers to participate in tutorials and lectures on specialized topics. The remainder of the day will be devoted to your research. For further information, see: http://ogsottawa.on.ca/genealogyweek.php

July 18, 2009 – Tucson, Arizona

The Arizona State Genealogical Society is sponsoring a one-day seminar focusing on locating immigrant ancestors and their documentation. Sue Clark is speaking on “The Elis Island Experience;” “Joanne Kartchner is speaking on “The Naturalization Process & What Information can be Found in the Records;” and “Barbara Salyer will speak on “Methods of Locating that Naturalization Paper.” The program will run from 9 am to 3 pm at the University Medical Center, 1501 N. Campbell Ave., Room 2117. Cost is $20 for ASGS members, $25 for non-members. The registration deadline is July 10, 2009. Lunch is not included in the fee. For more information, see: http://azsgs.org/event/monsoon-madness/

July 18, 2009 – Waltham, Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Genealogical Council annual seminar and meeting will be held at the LaCava Center at Bentley University in Waltham MA. The featured speaker will be Paula Stuart-Warren, a national known genealogy and historical researcher. Ms. Warren is a course coordinator for the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy and has lectured at the NGS and FGS conferences since 1993. Paula’s topics for the day will include:

• Using the Resources of the Family History Library
• What Next? Developing Step-by-Step Research Plans
• American Indian Research (Panel Discussion)
• Becoming a Professional Genealogist (Panel Discussion)

The day will feature special guest Vincent J. Cannato, PhD, associate professor of history at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Dr. Connato will discuss his new book, American Passage-The History of Ellis Island Highlights of the seminar will include updates on legislation affecting genealogists’ access to records on a national and state level. The New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS) will sponsor lectures on: Using DNA in Your Genealogy, Internet Websites for Family History, and Getting the Most from NEHGS (online and offline).

The Irish Ancestral Research Association (TIARA) will sponsor four lectures of Irish family history interest including First Generation Irish and Genealogical Resources of the State Library of Massachusetts.

Join them for this exciting and comprehensive program with something for everyone!

See: http://www.massgencouncil.org for more information and registration under “2009 Seminar Registration” and “2009 Seminar Information”.

July 17-18, 2009 – Sheridan, Wyoming

Family History Expos is sponsoring their Wyoming Family History Expo, to be held at the Holiday Inn Convention Center, 1809 Sugarland Drive. The hours are from 8 am to 6 pm, with registration opening at 7 am on Friday, July 16, 2009. Early Bird registration for both days – ends May 30, 2009 is $65; Pre-registration for both days – ends July 15, 2009 is $75; At the door – $85. One-day cost at the door is $45. For more information, See: http://www.fhexpos.com/events/upcoming.php?event_id=51

July 16-19, 2009 – Lufkin, Texas

Angelina College is sponsoring their 13th annual Genealogy Conference. The is “Steps to Success.” Speakers will include: Melvin C. Johnson, Trevia Wooster Beverly, Philip Burnett Adderley, Kelvin Meyers, Marynell Anderson Bryant, Emily Croom, Charlie Gardes, Pat Gordon, Donald Raney, and John A. Sellers. For details, see: http://www.angelina.edu/genealogy.htm

July 12, 2009 – St. Johns, Newfoundland, Canada

The New England Historic Genealogical Society is sponsoring a research tour to St. John’s, Newfoundland. Join expert genealogists at St. John’s premier facilities, including the Provincial Archives – “The Rooms,” the Maritime History Archive at Memorial University, and the Family History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador. Together these repositories hold vital records, church records, all census records, voter lists, probate, and land grants the Keith Matthews collection (list of all people who worked in fishery from 16th century to 1850), ship lists, crew lists, logbooks, Irish and English parish records and original newspapers of Newfoundland. For details, see: http://www.newenglandancestors.org/events/6502.asp

July 11-12, 2009 – Mt. Vernon, Washington

Sponsored by the Celtic Arts Foundation, the Skagit Valley Highland Games & Scottish Faire at Edgewater Park. Held the second full weekend each July, attendance for the Festival surpasses 10,000 people each year. It’s sort of “Scottish 3-ring circus;” with a wide range of activities for young and old alike.
The Skagit Valley Highland Games is part of an annual circuit of competitions held in the Pacific Northwest and Lower Mainland of British Columbia. As such, the quality of performers in solo bagpiping and drumming competitions, bagpipe bands, fiddling, traditional Scottish athletics (the “heavy” events) and Highland dancing is at an extremely high level. World Champions have performed on several occasions at the Skagit Valley Highland Games. They regularly have competitors visiting our event from Scotland and other parts of the United Kingdom, as well as Australia and New Zealand. For more information, see: http://www.celticarts.org/index.php?page_id=32

June 25-28, 2009 – Hope, Idaho

The Idaho State Historical Society will sponsor the 4th annual David Thompson Bicentennial Conference/Encampment. For more information: e-mail: krism “at” northwestmuseum.org or bcmuseum “at” verizon.net.

June 27, 2009 – Wellington, Ohio

The Ohio Scottish Games will be held at the Lorain County Fairgrounds. For more information, see: http://www.ohioscottishgames.com/

June 26-28, 2009 – Burbank, California

The Southern California Genealogy Jamboree is a three-day genealogical conference for researchers at all experience levels. Friday morning features free sessions for beginners and youth, as well as other special events. The speakers’ list reads like a Who’s Who of genealogy, with over 50 esteemed professional genealogists. The exhibit floor is center stage for exhibits, hands-on demonstrations and a family history marketplace for software, books, DNA, subscription databases, genealogical and heritage societies, and many other organizations. Jamboree has a well-earned reputation as doing things “just a little differently” with fun twists, entertainment, and networking opportunities. Follow the Jamboree blog at: www.genealogyjamboree.blogspot.com and check the website of the Southern California Genealogical Society for more information, see: www.scgsgenealogy.com/

June 20, 2009 – Wichita, Kansas

The 2009 conference presented by The Kansas Council of Genealogical Societies, Inc. and The Wichita Genealogical Society, featuring Megan Smolenyak Smolenyak is scheduled at the Spiritual Life Center in Wichita, Kansas. Sessions include: “Trace Your Roots with DNA,” “Welcome to Roots Television,” “Reverse Genealogy,” and “Find That Obituary: Online Newspaper Research.” Early registration: $45.00, if received by 5/30/2009. Late registration: $50.00. Contact kscouncilgensoc “at” juno.com for details or visit the website at: http://skyways.lib.ks.us/genweb/kcgs/

June 19-21, 2009 – Stirling, Scotland

Homecoming Stirling 2009 is a 3-day Family History Conference for those interested in Scotland or with Scottish connections. It will be held in Albert Halls, Dumbarton Road, in Stirling. For more information, see: www.homecomingstirling.com/

June 18-20, 2009 – Fort Wayne, Indiana

The Palatines to America – German Genealogy Society will sponsor their 2009 national conference at the Allen County public Library. The conference is called “Research With the Experts,” and features Annette Burgert. Additional workshops and expert consultants are planned. “PalAm Expert Consultants + ACPL Experts + Great Library = Brickwall Solutions.” Information and reservations can be made online at http://palamnationalconference.org/registration/ or write to: Ann Rodick, 211 S. Spriggs Ct. Bloomington, IN 47403-9610.

June 14-21, 2009 – Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada

The International Convention of Germans from Russia, sponsored by the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia will be held with Leona Mann and Mabel Kiessling co-chairing the convention. For more information, see: www.ahsgr.org/convention.htm

June 13-14, 2009 – Blairsville, Georgia

The Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games is sponsored by the Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce. For more information, see: http://www.blairsvillescottishfestival.org/

13 June, 2009 – Clover, North Carolina

The Clover Scottish Games & Scotch-Irish Festival will be held at the Slover Memorial Stadium, The program runs from 9 am to 4 pm, with free admission. The Clover Scottish Games and Scotch-Irish Festival, held in 2009 on the second Saturday in June, is an outgrowth of the heritage of the people of the Town of Clover. Through our festival we seek to encourage the growth of our shared heritage by showcasing those who practice Scottish and Scotch-Irish arts, crafts, athletics, music and traditions. From this rich pageantry we hope to instill and inspire our young people to keep the traditions burning. For more information, see: http://www.cloverscottishgames.com/

June 13, 2009 – Prince George, British Columbia, Canada

The Prince George Genealogical Society is sponsoring a seminar featuring Dave Obee, Eunice Robinson, and Lesley Anderson. Dave will speak on “Working Without the Net,” and “Family history on the Prairies.” Eunice Robinson will speak on “Exploring Irish Records and Emigration Sites.” Lesley Anderson will speak on “Finding Parish Records,” and “How Far Can You Go… Online?” the seminar will be held at the Westwood Mennonite Church, 2685 South Ospika Boulevard. Cost is $40. Preregistration by May 31 will include lunch. For more information, see: http://members.tripod.com/pg_genealogy_society/welcome.html

June 13, 2009 – Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The Toronto Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society is sponsoring a one-day workshop to introduce some of the types of records and techniques for researching your family tree. The workshop will highlight vital records (civil and church), census records and probates (wills. Secondary sources will be dealt with, with examples of how to use online newspaper indexes and accounts. The program will run from 10 am to 3:30 pm. For more information, see: http://www.torontofamilyhistory.org/courses.html

June 12-13, 2009 – Loveland, Colorado

Family History Expos is sponsoring their Colorado Family History Expo, to be held at the Embassy Suites & Conference Center, 4705 Clydesdale Parkway. The hours are from 8 am to 6 pm, with registration opening at 7 am on Friday, June 12, 2009. Early Bird registration for both days – ends April 30, 2009 is $65; Pre-registration for both days – ends June 8, 2009 is $75; At the door – $85. One-day cost at the door is $45 For more information, see: http://www.fhexpos.com/events/upcoming.php?event_id=48

June 7-12, 2009 – Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Sponsored by the Toronto Branch or the Ontario Genealogical Society, the Genealogy Summer Camp is an innovative week-long program that brings both out-of-town and local researchers with Ontario roots to the cluster of archives and libraries in Toronto. Participants will travel as a group to a different repository, including the Archives of Ontario in its new location at York University. For more information, see: http://www.torontofamilyhistory.org/summer.html

June 6, 2009 – Coxsackie, New York

The Greene County (NY) Historical Society is sponsoring its 33rd Annual Tour of Homes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sites along the Hudson River, from Catskill to Coxsackie, have been chosen to celebrate the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial. The Freightmaster’s Building at historic Catskill Point in Catskill will serve as tour headquarters. Tickets, route maps and picnic lunches can be purchased there the day of the tour. Tickets are $20 the day of the tour or $15 in advance for which reservations must be received by June 1. Proceeds support the Greene County Historical Society and its national landmarks, the Bronck House Museum and Thomas Cole’s Cedar Grove, as well as the Vedder Research Library. Make checks payable to GCHS: Greene County Historical Society, PO Box 44. Coxsackie, NY 12051. For more information, See Greene County Historical Society’s Calendar of Events.

June 6, 2009 – Canton, Ohio

The Stark County Irish & Scottish Festival will be held at the Stark County Fairgrounds, 305 Wertz Ave. NW. For more information, see: http://www.thecelticclubofohio.com/

June 5-6, 2009 – Marshall, Arkansas

The Searcy County (AR) Historical Society is sponsoring the Twentieth Annual North Arkansas Ancestor Fair at the E H Building, County Fairgrounds. Friday (9:30 am- 3:30 pm): Arkansas History Commission Staff present programs on: Baptist Records; Land platting & legal descriptions; Using newspapers in genealogical research; Gleaning information from photographs. Friday Evening (6:30 pm): Mixer-Dinner to meet kin & start ancestor hunting. Saturday (9 am-3 pm): Genealogical Swap Meet with family historians and genealogical/historical societies from north Arkansas counties. For more information, see: www.ancestorfair.us/ or contact James Johnston, 2333 N East Oaks Drive, Fayetteville, AR 72703; 479-442-3691; Johnston “at” ipa.net

June 5-6, 2009 – Greenville, South Carolina

The Greenville Scottish Games will take place. The colors, tastes, sights and sounds you will experience are all evocative of clan life in the wild Highlands of Scotland. The Championship Heavy Athletic competition is drawn from the warrior traditions at ancient clan gatherings, as is the Highland Dancing competition, albeit considerably more evolved from the original warlike expressions of victory over defeated enemies. The Southern Piping Championship will remind you vividly of how the Great Highland War Pipes were an integral part of every Scottish clan marching into battle. The crafts – from the weaving of tartans to the stained glass demonstrations – would have been all around you at a Gathering of the Clans from long ago. For more information, see: http://www.greenvillegames.org/index.php/Overview

May 30, 2009 – Haydon, Idaho

The Kootenai County Genealogical Society & The Family History Store is hosting Colleen Fitzpatrick for a one-day seminar. More information can be found by e-mailing leory1 “at” earthlink.net or telephone Louisa Durkin at 208-699-2687 or 208-666-6064.

May 30, 2009 – Marion, Indiana

The Marion Public Library in partnership with Ivy Tech Community College, Kokomo-Howard County Public Library, Howard County Genealogical Society, Indiana Genealogy Society and many others will present a one-day workshop on May 30, 2009. Megan Smolenyak Smolenyak will present 5 sessions on Using DNA in Genealogy Research at the Ivy Tech Community College campus in Marion, Indiana. The cost for the one-day seminar is only $65 if you register by April 1, and includes all sessions, lunch and evening banquet. For more information or to obtain a registration form visit our website at: http://www.marion.lib.in.us/departments/indianahistory/dna/dna_workshop.htm, email rstoffer “at” marion.lib.in.us or call 765-668-2900 ext 153.

May 29-31, 2009 – Oakville, Ontario, Canada

The Ontario Genealogical Society will sponsor their annual conference, entitled “From the Printed Page to the Digital Age.” Kory Meyerink will be the featured speaker. For more information, see: www.ogs.on.ca/

May 29, 2009 – Bellville, Ohio

The Ohio Genealogical Society will break ground for its new library and headquarters in Bellville, Ohio, on Friday, May 29 at 10:30 a.m. See: http://www.genealogyblog.com/?p=4637

May 28-31, 2009 – Lukas, Kentucky

The Glasgow Highland Games takes place. For information, see: http://www.glasgowhighlandgames.com/

May 23-24, 2009 – Alma, Michigan

The 42nd Alma Highland Games & Celtic Festival is located on the Alma College campus in Alma, Michigan. Each year the festival brings visitors the very best of Scottish tradition, combining great competition with Scottish hospitality.
The festival includes piping, drumming, and band competitions, along with traditional Scottish dancing and fiddling. Visit the many clan tents to find our more about Scottish tradition.
Watch nearly 1,000 pipers and drummers playing at once in a mass band. Stick around and take part in our Ceilidh (party) on Saturday night. For more information, see: http://www.almahighlandfestival.com/

May 22-23, 2009 – Fort Wayne, Indiana

The Genealogy Center of the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, IN, and the Allen County Genealogical Society of Indiana is sponsoring a 1 ½ day seminar entitled “Climbing Your DNA: Genetic Genealogy” on the use of DNA testing in genealogical research problem solving. The program will feature Roberta Estes. The six sessions are entitled: “DNA and Genealogy-Introduction:” “Getting in Touch with Your Feminine Side-mtDNA;” “Twists and Turns in the Rocky Road-Case Studies;” “My Results are Back-Now What?;” “Autosomal DNA Testing and You-What is It;” “What Does It Mean and How to Use It;” & “Making DNA Loveable – How to Take Your DNA Results and Turn Them Into an Heirloom Gift for Your Family.” For more information, see: http://www.acpl.lib.in.us/genealogy/programs.html

May 23, 2009 – Sumner, Washington

Heritage Quest Research Library is sponsoring a program titled “Colonial North Carolina, with Ann Nicholson Flint speaking. The program will be from 9:00 am to11:00 am, For more information, See: http://www.hqrl.com/; phone 253-863-1806 to preregister, there is a $10 fee.

May 21-24, 2009 – Springfield, Illinois

The Mormon History Association will hold its annual meeting in Springfield. The title of the Conference is “Mormonism and the Land of Lincoln: Intersections, Crosscurrents, and Dispersions.” For more information and online registration, visit the Association’s website at http://www.mhahome.org/ and click on “conference registration.”

May 17-24, 2009 – London, England

The New England Historic Genealogical Society is sponsoring an English Family History Research Tour. Based at the Society of Genealogists (SoG), researchers will be offered daily classes providing historical context & research methodology tips for working with the extensive record collection of the Society of Genealogists facility. For more information, see: http://www.newenglandancestors.org/events/6501.asp

May 16-17, 2009 – Houston, Texas

The Houston Highland Games & Celtic Festival will take place at the Houston Farm & Ranch Club at 1 Abercrombie Drive. The Entertainment line-up has been finalized for the 2009 Games with Jiggernaut, Clandestine, Teribus & Ed Miller & Friends. For more information, see: http://www.houstonhighlandgames.com/

May 16, 2009 – Berlin, Connecticut

The Connecticut Genealogical Society will have their annual meeting with Irene Lambert, BS., as the featured speaker. She will present a program titled “Discovering the Personality Traits of Your Ancestors Through the Process of Graphoanalysis.” The program will run from 9 am to 3 pm. Advance reservations are required. For more information, see: http://www.ctfamilyhistory.com/csg_view_event.php?event=106

May 16, 2009 – Erie, Pennsylvania

The Erie Society for Genealogical Research (ESHR) is sponsoring a all-day seminar featuring Hank Jones, speaking on “When the Sources are Wrong!;” “Tracing the Origins of Early 18th Century Palatine Emigrants;” “Family Tradition: How to Separate Fact from Fiction in Genealogical Research;” “How Psychic Roots became an “Unsolved Mystery!” The seminar will be held from 9 am to 4 pm at the Blasco Library. For more information, see: http://erie.pa-roots.com/2009GeneConf.html

May 16, 2009 – Seattle, Washington

The Seattle Genealogical Society is sponsoring their annual Spring Seminar, with John Philip Colletta as their featured speaker. The seminar topics are: “Breaking through brick walls,” “Lesser used federal records, (Homestead Files, Passport Applications, Civil War Income Tax, Appointments of Postmasters, to name a few);” “How to assemble a reliable family history;” and “How to write a readable family history.” For more information, see: www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~waseags/

May 16 2009 – Sequim, Washington

The Clallam County Genealogical Society will present a day long seminar with Donna Potter Phillips entitled “Ghost Hunting on the Internet.” It will be held at Dungeness Valley Lutheran Church in Sequim. For further information, see: http://olypen.com/ccgs/MaySeminarwPhillips.html

May 14-21, 2009 – Salt Lake City, Utah

Michael John Neill will sponsor his annual Salt Lake City Family History Trip. For information, see: www.rootdig.com/slctrip.html

May 13-19, 2009 – Raleigh, North Carolina

The National Genealogical Society is sponsoring their annual conference to be held in Raleigh, North Carolina. The conference hotel is the Raleigh Marriott City Center, 501 Fayetteville St., Raleigh, NC 27601. For more information, see: www.ngsgenealogy.org/Conferences/2009/

May 9, 2009 – Thousand Oaks, California

The Conejo Valley Genealogical Society is sponsoring a seminar. Barbara Renick will be the featured speaker. Her lecture topics are: “Eleven Layers of Online Searches;” “Online: How You Get There Does Make a Difference;” “What’s New at Family Search;” and “Finding Your Ancestors in Un-indexed Books.” For more information, see: http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cacvgs/Seminar.html or e-mail: cvgs2009seminar “at” aol.com.

May 9, 2009 – Savannah, Georgia

The 33rd Annual “Savannah Scottish Games, a Celtic Gathering” will take place. The Savannah Games are held on the campus of the historic Bethesda Home for Boys. Gates open at 9:00 a.m.
Events include piping competition, bagpipe bands, highland dancing competition, Scottish heavy athletics, Scottish immigrant re-enactors, modern Celtic music, border-collie herding and obedience demonstrations, and children’s events. Also available are delicious Scottish & American foods, vendors offering Celtic wares, genealogists eager and willing to answer questions, and the backbone of all Scottish Games, clan tents that offer information about their clans while seeking and welcoming long-lost distant relatives. For more information, see: http://www.savannahscottishgames.com/

May 9, 2009 – Boise, Idaho

The Idaho Genealogy Society, the Idaho State Historical Society, and FamilyTreeDNA are hosting a DNA Conference. The all-day event, “Solving Mysteries through DNA,” examines 3 types of DNA testing: tracing one’s ancestors when a paper trail runs dry, genetic testing for health issues, & forensic DNA to solve crimes and help locate missing persons. The keynote speaker is Emily Aulicino, who currently serves as the Northwest Regional Coordinator and Speaker of the International Society of Genetic Genealogists (ISOGG) for the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. A number of other prominent speakers are also slated to speak. The program runs from 8 am to 5 pm at the Doubletree Riverside Hotel, 2900 W. Chindon. Cost is #5 IGS and ISHA members; $45 for non-members if registered by April 30, 2009 – after that date the fees go up by $10 & $5 respectively. The price includes lunch. For more information, see: http://www.idahogenealogy.org/

May 9, 2009 – Paramus, New Jersey

The Genealogical Society of Bergen County, N.J. is sponsoring an immigration seminar titled “From Europe to America.” The featured speakers are Dr. John P. Colletta, Eric L. Roth, and Jonathan D. Shea. The program will take place from 9 am to 3:30 pm in the Moses Family Meeting and Training Center, 400 Paramus Rd. Vendors will be on-site. For more information, see: http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~njgsbc/ or email: GSBC_seminar “at” yahoo.com.

May 9, 2009 – Winston-Salem, North Carolina

The Celtic Festival & Highland Games will take place from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm at the Historic Bethabara Park, 2147 Bethabara Rd. Salute the Celtic contribution to colonial Bethabara with nationally-known main-stage musicians. Old and new this year will be lots of great Celtic food, Celtic dancing, border collie demonstrations, Celtic crafts, and Highland athletic competitions. There will also be Scottish clan tents, marching pipe bands, the annual Parade of Tartans and the colonial NC Highland Regiment. Children may borrow Celtic costumes, and participate in colonial and highland games and the Scots milita. Click here for more information

May 9, 2009 – Logan, Utah

Family History Expos is sponsoring their Logan, Utah Family History Expo, to be held at the Eccles Conference Center. The hours are from 8 am to 6 pm, with registration opening at 7 am. Early Bird registration – ends April 15, 2009 is $40; Pre-registration – ends May 15, 2009 is $45; At the door- $50. For more information, see: http://www.fhexpos.com/events/upcoming.php?event_id=45

May 8-10, 2009 – Carrollton, Kentucky

The 27th Annual Kentucky Scottish Weekend will take place at the General Butler State Resort Park. For information, see: http://www.kyscottishweekend.org/home.htm

May 3, 2009 – London, England

Fair Promotions, Ltd, in cooperation with Family History Societies and related groups will hold their event at the Barbican Exhibition Centre. The hours are from 10 am to 5 pm. For more information, see: www.thefhevent.com/

May 2, 2009 – Birmingham, Alabama

“Southeastern Pioneers in the 18th and Early 19th Centuries” is the theme of the Alabama Genealogical Society’s spring seminar, to be held at Samford University. Featured speakers are Dorothy Williams Potter and Elizabeth Wells. For more information, see: http://algensoc.org

May 2, 2009 – Fort Lauderdale, Florida

The Alvin Sherman Library is sponsoring their 2nd Annual Genealogy Fair, to be held from 9 am to 4 pm. Speakers will be John Colletta, Ph.D., Author of “They Came in Ships;” Roberta Estes, director the Lost Colony DNA Project; Matt Kaplan, Ph.D., geneticist for DNA Shoah Project; Rick Kittles, Ph.D., geneticist for PBS’ African-American Lives; & Lynn Turner, AG, director Hispanic Records Division of the Family Search Indexing Project. The program is free & open to the public. For more information, see: http://www.nova.edu/library/genealogyfair/

May 2, 2009 – St. Louis, Missouri

The St. Louis Genealogical Society is sponsoring their annual Family History Conference, to be held at the Maryland Heights Community Centre. The featured speaker will be David Rencher AG, CG, FIGRS, FUGA, Director of Records and Information Division, Family and Church History Department of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the Mormons). This organization has taken on the project to convert the Church’s vast collection of microfilmed records into indexed digital images, which will then be made available on the Internet. David’s current assignment promises to transform the way genealogists access original documents pertaining to their family history research. For more information on the conference, see: www.stlgs.org/fair.htm

May 2, 2009 – Austin, Texas

The Austin Genealogical Society is sponsoring their 2009 Annual Seminar, featuring Pam Boyer Sayre & Richard G Sayre. They will speak on “Military Service Records;” “Territorial Papers of the United States;” “Getting to Know You, Getting to Know More About You,” & “Google Earth for Genealogists.” For more information, see: http://www.austintxgensoc.org/seminar.php

May 2, 2009 – Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada

The Abbotsford Genealogical Society will sponsor a seminar with Dave Obee to be held at the Clearbrook Library, 32320 George Ferguson Way. Dave will speak on: “The Errors of our Ways;” “Newspapers in Family History Research;” Tracing forward to Find Distant Cousins;” “ and “Destination Canada (Immigration).” For information, see: http://www.abbygs.ca/training.htm

April 26, 2009 – Waltham, Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Genealogical Council is sponsoring their annual seminar. The speakers are sponsored by NEHGS of Boston. Lecturers include Michael LeClerc, speaking on “Online Resources for New England Research.” Josh Taylor of NEHGS will give two presentations on “Essential Tools for Genealogists: What to buy and How to buy it!” and “Genealogical Networking in Today’s World.” Ann S. Lainhart will give two lectures on “State Census Records” and “Massachusetts Institutional Records at the State Archives.” The program includes specialized topics such as “Researching Parish Records in Portugal” and “Recovering the Lost History of Annie Londonderry: An Idiosyncratic Search for the World’s First Female Sports Star.” Additionally, there will be two lectures from New England History Festival founder John Horrigan, including “Great American Fires of the 19th Century” and “Winters of the Revolution.” For more information, email: mbrophy “at” brophygen.com.

April 25-26, 2009 – Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada

The Kelowna and District Family History Society will sponsor a seminar featuring Rick and Sandra Roberts. For more information, see: www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~bckdgs/

April 25, 2009 – Santa Clara, California

The Santa Clara County Historical and Genealogical Society is hosting Christine Rose in an all-day seminar, “Using Little Known or Neglected Records: A Potpourri.” Contact Richard Ferman at: ferman “at” sbcglobal.net for more information or se the website at: http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cascchgs/main/meeting.html

April 25, 2009 – Santa Rosa, California

The Sonoma County Genealogical Society is sponsoring an all-day seminar with Lloyd Bockstruck. He will speak on “Court Records for Genealogical Research,” “Colonial and States Statutes: Overlooked Sources for Genealogical Research,” “Bridging the Atlantic: Finding Your Ancestral Home,” and “Substitutes for Birth and Death Records.”
This will be the seventeenth all-day session sponsored by SCGS. It will be held in the Harry A. Merlo Theater at the Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, Highway 101 at River Road.
Pre-registration is highly recommended to reserve your seat for this event. Price of admission for pre-registration is $20 for members of the Sonoma County Genealogical Society, $25 for non-members. Admission at the door, beginning at 8 a.m., will be $30. Send your reservations to Registrar Audrey Phillips, 96 Eastside Circle, Petaluma, CA 94954-3609. Questions about registration can also be directed to her by phone at 707-763-4492. Other questions about the seminar should be directed to Lois Nimmo, program chairman, e-mail: loisnim “at” scbglobal.net or phone 707-537-1684. For more information, see: www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cascgs/bockstruck2.htm

April 25, 2009 – Washington, District of Columbia

The Washington D.C. Family History Center is sponsoring their 3rd Annual Family History Conference. The conference will be held at the Washington DC Stake Center, (location of the Family History Center, 10000 Stoneybrook Drive, Kensington, MD 20895. For more information, see: http://www.wdcfhc.org/Conference/index.php

April 25, 2009 – Jacksonville, Florida

The Jacksonville Public Library and Southern Genealogist’s Exchange Society are sponsoring their Spring Seminar and Genealogy Fair. The speaker is Jana Sloan Broglin, CG. She will speak on: “Hookers, Crooks, and Kooks: or Aunt Merle Didn’t Run a Boarding House;” “Hot off the Press;” “When Johnny Comes Marching Home;” and “The Key to the Courthouse.” The Fair will run from 9 am – 4 pm. The Genealogy Fair begins at 9 am. The lectures begin at 10.
The program will take place at the Main Library,
303 North Laura St. The seminar will take place in the Auditorium, and the 
Genealogy Fair in the Conference. For more information,
call: (904) 630-2409 or see the website at: http://www.jaxpubliclibrary.org/progs/main/genealogy-seminar2009.html

April 25, 2009 – Fort Wayne, Indiana

The Genealogy Center of the Allen County Public Library is sponsoring a program on getting the most out of WeRelate. Cynthia Theusch will present the program that starts at 10 am in meeting room A. For more information, see: http://www.acpl.lib.in.us/genealogy/programs.html

April 25, 2008 – Indianapolis, Indiana

Pamela K. Boyer will be the featured speaker for the Indiana Genealogical Society’s 20th Anniversary Conference. Other speakers will be Dr. Jack Early, Curt Witcher, Bennie McRae, Dr. Alan January, Kevin Flanagan, Dona Stokes-Lucas and Ron Darrah. For more information or to register, go to www.indgensoc.org/conference.html or write to 2009 Conference, Indiana Genealogical Society, PO Box 10507, Ft. Wayne, IN 46852-0507.

April 25, 2009 – Topeka, Kansas

The Topeka Genealogical Society and the Kansas State Historical Society are sponsoring the 37th Annual Conference. John Phillip Colletta will be the featured speaker. The seminar will be held at the Kansas State History Center, 6425 SW Sixth St. For more information, see: www.tgstopeka.org/conference.html

April 25, 2008 – Omaha, Nebraska

The Greater Omaha Genealogy Society is sponsoring a workshop, featuring Roger P. Minert. For more information, please contact Karen at gogsworkshop “at” radiks.net . Also see: http://gogsmembers.wordpress.com/2009/01/19/2009-spring-workshop-coming/

April 25, 2009 – Cleveland, Ohio

The Western Reserve Historical Society is sponsoring an all-day seminar titled: “Out of the Shoebox! Sharing Your Family History.” This seminar features several speakers who will discuss methods you can use to share your family history, including: publishing books, web pages, cook books, memory books, photo albums, and newsletters. The seminar takes place Western Reserve Historical Society, 10825 East Boulevard, Cleveland. The Registration fee is $30.00. If you want a box lunch, the fee will be $38.00, payable in advance prior to April 20, 2009. For more information, see: http://wrhs.org/index.php/library/genealogy#genseminars

April 25, 2009 – Plain City, Ohio

The Ohio Chapter of the Palatines to America-German Genealogy Society is sponsoring its Spring Conference “Information Exchange on German Genealogy.” Speakers include: Ken Smith, Earnest Thode, Kenny Burck & Deb Cyprych, Ann Scott, and Debra Dunbar Nowell. The program will take place at the Der Dutchman Restaurant, 445 S. Jefferson Ave. For more information, see: www.oh-palam.org or contact Jean Hall, 181 Heischman Avenue, Worthingon, OH 43085. For more information, see: http://www.oh-palam.org/events.php

April 25 2009 – Olympia, Washington

The Olympia Genealogical Society is sponsoring their Annual Spring Seminar with Hank Jones. His topic are: “When the Sources are Wrong!;” “Family Tradition: How to Separate Fact from Fiction in Genealogical Research;” “Tracing the Origins of Early 18th Century Palatine & Other Emigrants;” and “Genealogy in the New Millennium: Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Going.” For more information, see: http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~waogs/seminars.htm



April 25, 2009 – Aberdeen, Scotland

The Aberdeen & NE Scotland Family History Society will be hosting the 20th Annual conference of the Scottish Association of Family History Societies. It will be held at Kings’ College Conference Centre in historic Old Aberdeen. For more information, see: www.scothist.org/

April 24-25, 2009 – Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Sponsored by the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society and the Lancaster County Historical Society, the 2009 Lancaster Family History Conference will take place at the Eden Resort Inn. The theme of the conference is Roots on the Move! Stories of Immigration. The keynote speaker will be Barry Moreno, director of Ellis Island Memorial Library. Immigration will be the topic of the keynote lecture. He will also present classes on: “Stories from Ellis Island,” “Women and Immigration,” and “Children and Immigration.” On Friday April 24, there will be a special motor coach tour to Ellis Island. See: http://www.lmhs.org/Home/Get_Involved/History_Conference

April 23-26, 2009 – Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada

The Saskatchewan Genealogical Society will sponsor their 40th Anniversary Showcase Genealogy Conference. For more information, see: www.saskgenealogy.com/

April 22-26, 2009 – Manchester, New Hampshire

The 10th New England Regional Conference “Discovering Family Treasures,” will feature speakers Megan Smolenyak Smolenyak, Tom Jones and Jim Hansen. More information or to register, see: www.nergc.org

April 22-23, 2009 – Washington, District of Columbia

The National Archives Research Center in Washington, District of Columbia is sponsoring their fifth annual Genealogy Fair. It will run from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm on both days. The event is free and open to the public. Reservations are not required. For more information, see: http://www.archives.gov/dc-metro/know-your-records/genealogy-fair/

April 18-19, 2009 – Las Vegas, Nevada

The Las Vegas Celtic Gathering & Highland Games will take place at Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs. For more information, see: http://lasvegascelticsociety.org/

April 18-19, 2009 – Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

The Alberta Genealogical Society Conference will take place. The program will be held at the Chateau Louis Hotel and Conference Centre on Kingsway Avenue. Speakers at the Conference include Dr. Peter Baskerville, Deanna Bullock, Peter Darby, Dr. Merrill Distad, Heater Jaremko, Susan L. McKeen, Lyn Meehan, Dave Obee, Barbara Roth, James P. Terry, and Dr. Frank Tough. For more information, see: www.abgensoc.ca/

April 18, 2009 – Anchorage, Alaska

The Anchorage Genealogical Society will present a seminar featuring Megan Smolenyk, speaking on: “Introduction to Ancestry.com,” “Reverse Genealogy: Techniques for Finding Your Lost Loved Ones,” “Find that Obituary Online Newspaper Search” and “Cases That Made my Brain Hurt.” For more information, see: www.anchoragegenealogy.org/seminar.htm

April 18, 2009 – Moline, Illinois

The Rock Island County Illinois Genealogical society and the Scott County, Iowa Genealogical Society will sponsor the 35th Annual Quad Cities Genealogical Conference. The featured speaker will be Curt Witcher. The seminar will be held at the Moline Viking Club, 1450 41st St. For more information, see: www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~ilbgsrim/news/AnnualGenConference.html

April 18, 2009 – Baton Rouge, Louisiana

The Louisiana Genealogical and Historical Society will sponsor their annual seminar, to be held at the Embassy Suites Hotel. For more information, see: www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~la-lghs/seminar.htm

April 18, 2009 – Milwaukie, Oregon

The Genealogical Forum of Oregon is sponsoring their annual Spring Seminar. The featured speaker is Larry Jensen, speaking on: “Determining Places of Origin of Immigrant Ancestors;” “Use of Maps and Atlases in German Research;” “Understanding German Jurisdictions;” and “Sources Used in Resolving German Research Problems.” The seminar will take place at the Milwaukie Elks Lodge, 13121 SE McLoughlin Blvd. For more information, see: http://www.gfo.org/seminar/FlyerSpr09ZG.pdf

April 18, 2009 – Greentree, Pennsylvania

The Western Pennsylvania Genealogical Society is sponsoring a seminar featuring George K. Schweitzer, Ph.D. Dr. Schweitzer will speak on “Military Genealogical Research;” “Tracing Ancestors Back Across the Atlantic;” and “Pennsylvania Genealogical Research.” The seminar will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Holiday Inn. Fees are $40 per person for WPGS and WQED members; $45 per person for non-members. A hot buffet lunch is included. For more information, see: http://www.wpgs.org/spring_seminar.htm

April 18, 2009 – Plano, Texas

The Genealogy Friends, are sponsoring an All-Day Workshop, featuring Naomi Taplin and Alan Lefever from the Texas Baptist Historical Collection, speaking on: “Preserving Precious Memories.” Bring your own family treasures and learn how best to preserve them. The seminar will be from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Plano Bible Chapel, 1900 Shiloh Road. Pre-registration is $38.00 – $45 at the door. Contact: Brenda Kellow, President, The Genealogy Friends, PO Box 860477, Plano, TX 75086-0477; GenFriends “at” GenealogyFriends.org; www.GenealogyFriends.org

April 18, 2009 – Richmond, Virginia

The Virginia Genealogical Society is sponsoring an all-day seminar with Barbara Vines Little as the feature speaker. The program features four lectures. They are “Beyond Patents and Grants: The “Other” Papers in the Virginia Land Office Records;” “An Untapped Treasure House: The Records of the Auditor of Public Accounts;” “Hidden Virginia Resources;” and “Things I’ve learned in Forty Years: ‘Secrets’ for Successful Virginia Research.” For more information, see: http://www.vgs.org/spring09brochure.pdf

April 18, 2009 – Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

The Alberta Genealogical Society is sponsoring their Annual Conference, to be held at the Chateau Louis Hotel and Conference Centre on Kingsway Avenue. For more information, see: http://www.abgensoc.ca/events.html

April 17-19, 2009 – Huntersville, North Carolina

The Rural Hill Scottish Festival and the 16th Loch Norman Highland Games takes place. See: http://www.ruralhill.net/

April 15-18, 2009 – Portland, Oregon

The Pacific Northwest History Conference, Northwest Oral History Association and the Oregon Sesquicentennial Extravaganza takes place at the Holiday Inn at the Portland Airport. The Extravaganza will have the theme of “Rendezvous 2009!” The goal reflects the sharing of ideas, perspectives, skills and cultures in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest that will take place at the Extravaganza. Attendees will include community leaders, staff and volunteers from historical societies, museums, historic cemeteries, ethnic organizations, schools, historic preservation commissions, humanities groups, the tourism industry, economic development, history buffs, genealogists and professional historians, archaeologists, youth, and local, tribal, state and federal governments. All will be welcome at the Extravaganza. For more information, see: http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/HCD/OHC/Conference.shtml

Apr 13, 2009 – Mercer Island, Washington

The Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State is sponsoring a program featuring “Russian Jewish Genealogy: Genealogical documents from the 1800s through World War II” to be presented by Michael Steinore. Many sources of genealogical information exist for those with ancestors who lived in Czarist Russia and/or the Soviet Union. Some are easier to find and translate than others. This presentation offers practical advice on how to locate, understand, and use some of the important sources for Russian Jewish genealogy. The program is to be held in the auditorium at the Stroum Jewish Community Center, 3801 East Mercer Way, Mercer Island, Washington. Doors open at 7 pm, presentation starts at 7:30 pm. The JGSWS library will be available. WiFi will be available. Free admission for JGSWS members, $5.00 for non-members. For more information, see: http://www.jgsws.org/