New York City and the History of Ellis Island
Located where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Hudson River, Ellis Island was the perfect place to stop and process boats entering the United States; Thus Ellis Island opened as a federal immigration station in 1892. All immigrants would wait in long medical and legal...
Finding Your Family from Ship’s Passenger Lists
When exploring genealogy, research may include poring over ship passenger lists to find names of ancestors who immigrated to the United States generations ago. Passenger arrival lists are an excellent resource for anyone who wants to learn about family history....
Why YOU Should Join a Facebook Genealogy Group
There are myriad websites, historical societies, and other resources for the would-be genealogist to get help when starting out, or for experienced researchers to continue learning new things from their peers. One of the easiest options that may not occur to you is to...
Two Websites to Help You Use Your Digital Devices: Computers, Laptops, Tablets, Smartphones and Cameras
Are you new to computers, haven't used them for a while, are a little unsure and uncomfortable, or do you just need a bit of a refresher and need a simple way to learn? Or are you not sure how to use email or do a simple search? Or, do you just want to learn how to...
Researching Your African American Ancestors
This article was prepared by the NEHGS. Researching African American ancestors presents a unique challenge, but NEHGS has the tools you need to get started. In honor of Black History Month, please enjoy free access to five useful databases, and join us in uncovering...
Choosing a Genealogy Software Program Webinar
If you are using the discontinued genealogy software programs Family Tree Maker or The Master Genealogist and want to change, or if you are just beginning to research your family tree you will want to watch this new webinar from American Ancestors by NEHGS. At...
Learn More About DNA Testing
The Board for Certification of Genealogists in their SpringBoard Blog has stated "we must at least consider genetic genealogy as part of our reasonably exhaustive research. Not all projects require DNA testing, but some will benefit from it, and others will be...
Measuring America: The Decennial Census from 1790 to 2000 – A Guide to the US Census
Have you ever wondered what something means in the US Census? Why did the Census Taker record things the way they were recorded? Now you can find out! The US Census Office has released a guide to the US Census that provides instructions the Census Takers were told and...
Using a Genealogy Program
On Saturday November 14 we held a combined meeting of the Family Tree Maker and the Computer Genealogy Groups. The topic was Using a Genealogy Program - If you Were Starting Over, What Would You Do Different. Although it was presented from the standpoint of a long...
Online Courses on Getting Started in Genealogy
There are a number of online courses available to help you get started on your family history. A few are listed below. Introduction to Genealogy on About.com A self-paced, four-lesson class packed full of new concepts, techniques and ideas which will hopefully get you...