Genealogical proof requires the conduct of reasonably exhaustive research. This presentation will provide useful tips on developing an effective research plan, including the importance of crafting a focused research question and prioritizing potentially relevant sources.
This presentation is based on “Parents for Isaac Garrett of Laurens County, South Carolina: DNA Corroborates Oral Tradition,” which won the National Genealogical Society Quarterly’s 2021 Award for Excellence. NGSQ, 108 (June 2020):85-112. The lecture will focus on the decision points involved in planning DNA tests and integrating the results into the proof argument set forth in the article.
Genealogical proof requires the conduct of reasonably exhaustive research. The thorough research required by the Genealogical Proof Standard should not be undertaken in a haphazard manner. This webinar provides useful tips on developing an effective research plan, including the importance of crafting a focused research question and prioritizing potentially relevant sources.
This lecture is based on an award-winning published case study that illustrates how the standards for achieving genealogical proof can be satisfied, even in the face of the research challenges presented by formerly enslaved Americans. A follow-up lecture on December 13, 2022 will focus on DNA evidence used to corroborate the results of this research in traditional documentary evidence.
This lecture is based on a case study that was the lead article in the June 2020 edition of the National Genealogical Society Quarterly. The speaker will provide information needed to make sound decisions on when DNA tests can or should be used in genealogical research, and how to meet the DNA-specific genealogy standards for accuracy and completeness. The lecture will include an overview of available direct-to-consumer tests, a discussion of the elements of a targeted testing plan, and information about analyzing DNA test results.
Cluster research of family, associates, and neighbors (the "FAN Club") is particularly useful when researching the lineage of a formerly enslaved ancestor. This session will focus on the indirect evidence that can be gleaned from a research subject's Fan Club, using sources created before and after the subject's lifetime.
This session will follow the lecture regarding cluster research, to demonstrate how a proof argument based largely on indirect evidence can be strengthened by the incorporation of DNA evidence.
Adherence to standards is imperative for anyone who endeavors to reach credible genealogical conclusions. The Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG)publishes the field’s only comprehensive set of criteria(standards)for evaluating genealogical work products. Significantly, application of the standards set forth in BCG’s publication is not limited to those who aspire to obtain the Certified Genealogist® credential—they are community wide standards used in producing family histories, client reports ,blogs, and other offerings.
The lecture will illustrate both methodologies and strategies for meeting the Genealogical Proof Standard when researching families that survived American slavery. The focus on strategies will arm attendees with the tools needed to overcome the challenges of researching during the antebellum period.
