Family Tree Girl

31 May – 3 June 2023, Richmond, Virginia

Attending a genealogy conference can be a valuable experience for anyone interested in learning more about their family history. These events offer a unique opportunity to connect with other researchers, discover new resources and techniques, and gain valuable insights into the latest developments in the field. I, from the University of Virginia along with Dr. Jajuan Johnson from the College of William and Mary will be presenting under the James Dent Walker Memorial Lecture series: S322 “Finding the Ties that Bind: Strategies for Descendant Research and Engagement”. We will share our strategies for researching for descendants of enslaved laborers. Here are some reasons I think you will benefit from attending a genealogy conference:

It’s a way to connect with fellow researchers. Genealogy conferences bring together people from all over the world who share a common interest in family history. This provides an opportunity to meet others who are passionate about the same things you are and to share stories, ideas, and strategies for overcoming research challenges.

We can discover new resources: Genealogy conferences often feature exhibits from vendors and organizations that specialize in genealogy-related products and services. This can be a great way to learn about new resources, tools, and technologies that can help you take your research to the next level.

We have the opportunity to attend various educational sessions: Most genealogy conferences offer a range of educational sessions that cover a variety of topics, from basic research strategies to advanced DNA analysis. These sessions are typically led by experts in the field and can provide valuable insights and practical tips that you can apply to your own research.

You will gain access to experts in their field: In addition to attending educational sessions, many genealogy conferences offer opportunities to consult with experts one-on-one. This can be particularly helpful if you’re facing a difficult research problem or need guidance on how to interpret DNA results.

Also, you will stay up to date on the latest developments: Genealogy is a constantly evolving field, with new tools, techniques, and resources emerging all the time. Attending a genealogy conference is a great way to stay up to date on the latest developments and to learn about new trends and best practices in the field.

You will enjoy a sense of community: For many genealogists, the research process can be isolating, with much of the work done alone at home or in libraries. Attending a genealogy conference provides an opportunity to connect with others who share your interests and to enjoy a sense of community that can be hard to find elsewhere.

In short, attending a genealogy conference is a valuable investment for anyone interested in family history. Whether you’re a seasoned researcher or just getting started, these events provide an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow as a genealogist. So, if you have the chance to attend a genealogy conference, don’t hesitate – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget and stop in and say hello to Jajuan and I on Saturday, June 3, at 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Conference Information and Registration: https://conference.ngsgenealogy.org/featuredevents/