Facebook for Genealogists

Most family history researchers are familiar with the more popular social networking sites dedicated to genealogy, sites aimed at connecting families and providing a platform for sharing information. Another branch of social networking are the sites previously thought to be the domain of the young, used by teens and college kids to connect with friends, Facebook being the most popular today. However, the demographics on Facebook have expanded to include pretty much everyone, regardless of age. Facebook is the place to find people and to be found by others. Its popularity has made Facebook a real powerhouse in connecting people. In her article, "Facebook for Genealogists," Gena Philibert-Ortega, explores how Facebook can be used to enhance or advance your genealogy, lending encouragement, perhaps, to those who have yet to dip a toe in Facebook waters. 

When a Picture Is Not Worth a Thousand Words

What's that you say? A picture is not worth a thousand words? Another myth, busted! In her article, "When a Picture Is Not Worth a Thousand Words," Judy Rosella Edwards explores the ways in which pictures can deceive and why they considered secondary, rather than primary sources. The problem today is even worse. Technology has allowed us to warp reality in photos to such a degree that our children's children will never really know for sure what's real and what's not, without expert analysis to see if an image has been "photoshoped." So words of caution are well taken.

Dissertations and Theses as Genealogical Sources

As she continues to explore the genealogical value of various types of manuscript collections, Gena Philibert-Ortega, explores "Dissertations and Theses as Genealogical Sources." As noted in the article, while these works may not be specific to genealogy, "there are many in the realms of history, anthropology, social work and other disciplines that would be of interest to the family historian. In some cases, personal and oral histories might be a part of the research paper that may even shed some light on your own family." In addition to suggesting how dissertations and theses might be used, the author also suggest ways of identifying and locating such materials. 

Lexicons of Lost Lifestyles: Words of War, Part 1

As one might expect, a lot of word relating to war fare have to do with courage in the face of battle. In her article, "Lexicons of Lost Lifestyles, Words of War," Jean Hibben show words of war derive from ancient times, forward. Language is interesting in the way usage can alter meaning, and connotation can trump denotation, turning a word that is, if not positive, at least neutral, into something downright pejorative, as shown in the origin of the word "coward" and other "words of war."

Free Online Classes Through OpenCourseWare

There is no limit, it seems, to the information available on the Internet for the resourceful and curious researcher. In her latest article, "Free Online Classes Through OpenCourseWare," Gena Philibert-Ortega explores yet another useful -- and free -- resource. Universities around the world offer a wide range of non-credit classes in many disciplines, on topics that may inform your genealogical research. 

New FamilySearch: A Database to Capture Your Imagination

The New FamilySearch is being gradually rolled out. If you are aware of a correction that needs to be made to your existing FamilySearch data but you don't have access, how do you correct it? In her second article on the subject, "New FamilySearch: A Database to Capture Your Imagination," Judy Rosella Edwards tells us how.

Genealogy Writing Markets

Alan Smith, in his article, "Genealogy Writing Markets," offers insights and some direction for those experienced in genealogy and with a bent for writing. As the article points out, there is a high degree of interest in genealogy topics, genealogy writing offers rewards, other than financial. 

Finding Digitized Books Online

"Millions of digitized books and periodicals exist on the internet that can assist you in your research. The secret is knowing where to find them. Just ‘googling' a book's title may not help you, but knowing what websites feature digitized books can." In her latest article, "Finding Digitized Books Online," Gene Philibert Ortega directs us to some new and interesting sources for finding books online.