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About.comGenealogy

Exploring Genealogy 

with

Special Guest
David Rencher

 Sponsored by the
National Genealogical Society Learning Center


Using FamilySearch Internet and the Resources of the Family History Center

 

Transcript of Chat - 11 April, 2001

<genealogyADM>  Hello Everyone and welcome to our chat room :-)
<genealogyADM>  I would like to thank David Rencher for taking the time to be with us tonight
<genealogyADM>  And John, Cyndi and the National Genealogical Society for sponsoring such a wonderful chat series
<genealogyADM>  So that we can all learn together
<genealogyADM>  But that's enough from me - I will now turn it over to John Humphrey, the head of the National Genealogical Society Learning Center
<genealogyADM>  :-)
<NGSJohn>  On behalf of the National Genealogical Society I want to thank each of you for participating in the third online NGS Virtual Lecture. This series of lectures is sponsored by the National Genealogical Society Learning Center.
<NGSJohn>  I also want to give a word of thanks to Kimberly Powell for offering her help AND expertise in putting this lecture series together. I owe special thanks to our presenter this evening, David Rencher. David is currently serving as the Director of the Libraries Division of the Family History Department of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
<NGSJohn>  David is responsible for THE largest collection of genealogical materials period! Our guest has been involved in genealogy for a long time at various levels. He is past president of the Federation of Genealogical Societies and a Fellow of UGA. His topic this evening is Using FamilySearch Internet and the Resources of the Family History Centers. It is a special privilege to welcome David to tonight's NGS Online Lecture.
<FHLDavid>  Welcome to this evening's on-line chat session. To start this evening's session, I would like to provide some background information about the Family History Library, and the extension of the library, the Family History Centers located throughout the world. A description of FamilySearch Internet Service is also included here to start the discussion.
<FHLDavid>  The Genealogical Society of Utah was founded in 1894 to gather records that help people trace their ancestry. One of the society's first acts was to open a library^`2013forerunner to the Family History Library. In 1938, the society began preserving records on microfilm. Today microfilm camera operators are filming birth, marriage, death, probate, immigration, military, and other records in many countries. Each year the library preserves and catalogs a
<FHLDavid>  bout 100 million new pages of historical documents (about 50,000 microfilms, 25,000 microfiche, and 12,000 books).
<FHLDavid>  The Family History Library of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints houses the world's largest collection of genealogical records, including the names of more than two billion deceased people. It is estimated that about six billion people are in recorded history, so roughly genealogical records on one-third of those have been collected and preserved
<FHLDavid>  Most of the records date from 1550 to 1920. On April 1, 2002, the 1930 United States Census will be released to the public, extending the inclusive dates of library information. To protect rights-of-privacy, the library has few records on living persons. Library patrons are invited to use the massive collection of books, microfilm and computerized records to do their own family history research.
<FHLDavid>  Library orientation classes are offered regularly whenever the library is open. First time patrons can receive information about the facility's general layout and available resources. Specialized classes are also offered to meet particular research needs and computer classes are provided to educate patrons about the library's unique software programs
<FHLDavid>  The public is welcome and admission to the library is free of charge. Use of library resources is also free, although there is a small charge for personal materials such as photocopies, paper and computer discs. Professional staff and well-trained volunteers work at the library and are available to answer questions and direct people in their search for their family roots. On average, some 2,700 visitors use the library each day.
<FHLDavid>  Go to the web site: http://www.familysearch.org
<FHLDavid>  In 1964, a system of Family History Centers was established to give more people access to the library's resources. More than 3,500 Family History Centers now operate in 64 countries and territories around the globe. Approximately 2,000 centers are located in the United States and Canada. Family History Centers are usually located in Latter-day Saint meetinghouses and are staffed by volunteers. The address of the center nearest you may be found by goin
<FHLDavid>  Patrons at any Family History Center can borrow most of the library's microfilms and microfiche. There is a postage and handling fee. Over 2.3 million rolls of microfilmed records (equal to more than 6 million written volumes) and approximately 700,000 microfiche are available at the Family History Library.
<FHLDavid>  North America -- The library's collection for the United States is substantial and includes records from every state and many federal records. These records come from more than 2,500 county courthouses and other archives and repositories. The Canadian collection includes almost all Quebec church records and many civil records from Ontario and the other provinces.
<FHLDavid>  British Areas -- Comprehensive Scottish records and a broad English and Welsh collection make up much of the British record collection. The library also houses the largest collection of Irish genealogical records outside of Ireland. Many records are also available for Australia and New Zealand.
<FHLDavid>  Europe and Scandinavia (Nordic) -- The library has a large collection of records from these areas. Church and civil records are available for many areas of Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg, and Spain. Nearly all significant genealogical records are available for the Netherlands, Belgium, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and Finland. The library has significant collections for parts of Austria, Bulgaria, Latvia, Poland, Portugal, and Switzerland and growing collections for Croatia, Estonia, Russia, Slovakia, and Slovenia.
<FHLDavid>  Latin America -- Major collections for Mexico, Uruguay, and Chile include records form most parishes. Collections for Argentina, Brazil, and Guatemala are growing. The library has a large Latin American collection. 

Other Areas -- The library has many significant genealogical records for the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and other countries. There are partial but useful collections for South Africa and other African countries, several Pacific Islands, India, and Indonesia. There is also a helpful collection of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean family histories (clan genealogies).

<FHLDavid>  FamilySearch Internet is a computerized system of genealogical information that helps researchers identify their ancestors and organize family history information. It is found on all floors in the library, most Family History Centers, the FamilySearch Center, and at a growing number of public and private libraries. To identify a public library with FamilySearch near you, call 801-240-2584. FamilySearch Internet Genealogy Service offers most, but not all, of the resources that are part of FamilySearch at the library or its centers. The following computer files and programs are part of FamilySearch Internet:
<FHLDavid>  I. Ancestral File. A computer file containing names and other vital information (such as date and place of birth, marriage, or death) of millions of individuals who have lived throughout the world. Names are organized into family groups and pedigrees. To allow for coordination of research, the file also lists names and addresses of those who contributed to the file. Ancestral File is available on compact disc and on the Internet.
<FHLDavid>  II. Family History Library Catalog. A catalog that describes the records available at the Family History Library. The catalog provides a guide to family histories; birth, marriage, and death records; census records; church registers; and many other records that may contain genealogical information. These records may be in a book, on microfiche or microfilm, or in a computer file. Copies of most microfilm and microfiche records can be sent to Family History Centers. The catalog is available on the Internet, on compact disc, and on microfiche.
<FHLDavid>  III. International Genealogical Index. A computer file that lists several hundred million names of deceased persons from throughout the world. It also lists some vital information, such as a birth or marriage date and place. Many names in the index come from vital records from the early 1500s to 1885; others have been submitted by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The International Genealogical Index is available on the Internet, on compact disc, and on microfiche.
<FHLDavid>  IV. U.S. Social Security Death Index. A computer file that contains records of deaths reported to the United States Social Security Administration. Most records start in 1962, but the file does contain a few records of deaths that happened before that date. The computer file is available on compact disc.
<FHLDavid>  V. U.S. Military Index. A computer file of individuals in the United States military service who died or were declared dead in Korea or Vietnam (Southeast Asia) from 1950 to 1975. The file is available on compact disc. VI. Personal Ancestral File. A computer program used to record, manage, and share genealogical information. Personal Ancestral File was created and is distributed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
<FHLDavid>  Pedigree Resource File. A computer file that contains names; family relationships; and birth, marriage, and death information for millions of people. The information in this file will appear as it was originally submitted and will not be merged with information submitted by others. The file is also available on compact disc.
<FHLDavid>  Ok, ready for questions
<cyndihow>  David -- do you have plans for each of the Family History Centers to have their own web sites?
<FHLDavid>  The FHC's are under local jurisdiction. If their leaders approve, when implemented, they can have a web site. Currently, we are reviewing the guidelines for establishing web sites.
<rikki>  I get so lost on the Family History site. What is the best way to start there?
<FHLDavid>  The best way is to click on Search and to enter a minimum amount of information. Next
<Jelly>  If my ancestor does not come up on your website, what can I do at the Library?
<FHLDavid>  The web site contains our databases and links to other web sites. The library has original records that can be viewed on microfilm through any of the Family History Centers.
<FHLDavid>  The databases are great for what they are, but are not exhaustive at this point.
<Jelly>  So, I should just start checking direct sources instead?
<FHLDavid>  We are in a transition period where many of the records you need are still either on microfilm or located in original archives.
<FHLDavid>  Yes, you will always reach a point when the survey of web sites is exhausted.
<cyndihow>  David -- wouldn't you say that the FamilySearch site is a finding aid to help you use the library? Especially the library's catalog on the site -- the most under-utilized portion of the site in my opinion.
<FHLDavid>  Absolutely, we've taken our automated resources and then offered our catalog to the remainder of the collection.
<FHLDavid>  Most users are constrained by their knowledge of how to use the catalog.
<jackieb>  when you enter a surname on lds site, does it search all areas of lds on- site records??
<FHLDavid>  The search for ancestors has an all resources, global search. Or, you can limit your search to any one single database.
<FHLDavid>  When you limit your search to a single database, you have more search options.
<FHLDavid>  Such as batch number search.
<FHLDavid>  Submission search in Pedigree Resource File.
<FHLDavid>  Features in the web site search.
<BeccaRose>  what are the resources on the FamilySearch site that are most overlooked but of higher 'value'?
<FHLDavid>  That's a good question. Probably the web site search and the research helps, including Research Guidance.
<BeccaRose>  which is?
<FHLDavid>  Those are options on the search screen when you hit the search tab.
<BeccaRose>  I'm trying to learn more than just the basics of the site a little better
<FHLDavid>  They are sorted by Place, Title, Subject or Document type.
<BeccaRose>  why do you rate that a higher value?
<FHLDavid>  Because you have letter writing guides for foreign languages, expert assistance from the research outlines, maps, step-by-step guides. Basically, the expert advice of our entire reference staff.
<cyndihow>  David -- is the Research Guidance area something that grew from the old Research Outlines that we could find at our local FHCs?
<FHLDavid>  Yes, but the assistance is guided. A lot of work was done by time period that wasn't there previously. The old research outlines are now found on familysearch.org in the research helps section.
<BeccaRose>  how can we use those to guide us at the actual FHC?
<FHLDavid>  Most FHC's have a limited number of computers. You would generally need to do some work in advance, focusing on your objective. The FHC staff can also assist you to use the research guidance portion effectively.
<BeccaRose>  like finding microfiche to request etc?
<FHLDavid>  The format is resource dependant. Finding the item you want will dictate if it's on microfiche or microfilm.
<FHLDavid>  We have over 700,000 microfiche in the collection.
<FHLDavid>  There is no catalog to just the microfiche.
<BeccaRose>  that's good to know
<BeccaRose>  thank you
<NGSJohn>  David, is the church still actively microfilming in Germany?
<FHLDavid>  Yes, however many of our resources have been directed to Eastern Europe since it opened up.
<Guest501>  can't find any info on the web about my ancestors Ajello including F H C. Need Help.
<FHLDavid>  Can you clarify the locality for the surname Ajello?
<Guest501>  yes, my grandfather was born in Sorrento, Italy
<FHLDavid>  The automated resources for Italy are limited. However, the collection for Italy is growing. You're probably in the write or go mode.
<Guest501>  write to Italy?
<FHLDavid>  There is a web site called POINT, Pursuing Our Italian AncesTors, you might try.
<FHLDavid>  Yes, I would use the letter writing guide in Research Helps in familysearch.org
<Guest501>  thank you very much, I will check it out
<Bukovina>  Is recording presently going on in the Chernovetsi region of south western Ukraine?
<FHLDavid>  My understanding is that work is progressing slowly in the Ukraine. A number of their archivists visited the United States last year.
<Bukovina>  thank you
<KateG>  Where do I find the 'source' that is listed on some of the ancestral files?
<FHLDavid>  There is no source other than the submitter. The source documentation was never included in the present version of Ancestral File.
<genealogyADM>  Your turn paulette :)
<pbg>  David, 10 years ago LDS was notified to get computerized and on the net.....happened welllll not all that long ago....
<pbg>  now flashing 700,000 to everyone.....is all fine and dandy...but what the researchers and Genealogist need is access to the information not a demonstration on how to??
<pbg>  is the site going to be used simply as a guide?
<FHLDavid>  Are you asking for web access to the imaged data?
<pbg>  no
<pbg>  10 years ago you were notified not to microfilm but to go straight net.....seems to me there is a sign with men at work but David....researchers throughout the world are asking......we know now to get here there and everywhere's.....how come LDS is only guiding once again??
<FHLDavid>  We were never notified to cease our microfilming program. Our collection of materials on the web is being deployed as fast as possible. We index 25 million records per year with volunteers, that's about as rapidly as we can automate our massive collection.
<pbg>  you say locals have options yet next message say it's under discussion only yet??
<genealogyADM>  David, I think she is referring to your earlier comment about allowing local FHC's to have Web pages, David
<FHLDavid>  FHC's have been asked to wait for further instructions to implement their web sites. I have no ability to move it any faster.
<pbg>  ok so control over information is still a problem, right?
<cyndihow>  My two-cents worth here -- from personal experience with e-mail questions I receive the thing we need MOST is education, training and guidance for people online.
<genealogyADM>  Have been asked by who David?
<NGSJohn>  I am CONVINCED that is where NGS has a roll
<cyndihow>  Exactly, John.
<pbg>  well it's time the men at work sign is rolled up and they get with it and soon, no??
<cyndihow>  It doesn't do us any good to put the records online (spending hundreds of thousands of dollars and man-hours to do so) if the majority of online researchers have no clue what to do with them.
<FHLDavid>  The FHC's were asked by Church Headquarters to suspend their sites for the moment. The presentation among FHC's needs to represent the Family and Church History Department and the Church.
<cyndihow>  David - I would assume that would promote consistency and dependability for all of the FHC sites.
<genealogyADM>  So you want something fairly uniform and following certain guidelines - that makes sense
<pbg>  they would though Cyndi if they were there and not in a file elsewhere...save much much time and energy all around instead of having everyone run around like chickens with their heads cut off??
<cyndihow>  Paulette -- that is all that most people online do currently anyway. Education, training are in short supply online. The FamilySearch site excels in this area.
<FHLDavid>  A need for uniformity among the Libraries Division is needed. When the site is implemented, I think you will be pleased. Let's all remember that this is a non-profit organization that moves as quickly as it can with the available resources.
<cyndihow>  While the church does a stellar job microfilming records and getting EVERYONE online and offline (members and non-members) the ability to access those records.
<pbg>  they did in the beginning but the last year or so, things have been shuffled over or so it seems where they have to write here or go there, what's wrong with the original question...why not on line as it should of been all along??
<cyndihow>  David -- I think the question is this -- why isn't everything from the FHL online instead of in filing cabinets in a library?
<FHLDavid>  I do not know what it is you are seeking for on-line. We have an on-line site with all of our automated data and the catalog to our holdings.
<cyndihow>  (BTW - this is a question asked all the time by people in regard to the FHL holdings, the National Archives holdings, etc.)
<FHLDavid>  The collection will be imaged at the rate we are able to proceed. This is not an insignificant task given 2.4 million rolls of microfilm.
<FHLDavid>  The resources needed to do this are staggering.
<genealogyADM>  I get that question just about every day Cyndi - everyone wants info and wants it now ;)
<cyndihow>  Paulette -- do you have any idea how much money something like that would take? Or how much time? Or how imperfect the technology is that we are using?
<pbg>  there you go......in the beginning had you heard it would be there now....soooooooo we wait, how long??
<pbg>  Know though, they missed the window and am not interested in figures of how much they have already squandered, am interested in how long now it will take to convert??
<FHLDavid>  We wait for permission from original archives, which not all are willing to grant. We wait for technology to help with file sizes. We wait for delivery methods. We're still trying to get ISP's worldwide, etc. etc.
<HW> Can you download a complete gedcom or just one family page at a time?
<FHLDavid>  Download from which database in FamilySearch Internet.
<HW>  In ancestral file, Elizabeth Hyde goes back to William the C. Can you download a gedcom in one batch?
<FHLDavid>  No, download is limited to four generations at one time on the web site. In the Centers, you can download up to 13 generations at one time.
<FHLDavid>  Much of early nobility and early research is, of course, questionable.
<HW>  How do you download 4 generations? I can't do anything more than the viewable page.
<FHLDavid>  The viewable page is four generations.
<HW>  Thank you.
<Jelly>  What can I do if I know information in the IGI is incorrect? Granted, the dates in question say 'ABT.' but they are off by 25+ years! Can I help?
<Jelly>  There is an 1881 birth date, 1902 marriage. She was born in 1907.
<Jelly>  Any suggestions?
<FHLDavid>  Information in the IGI was originally submitted for the LDS temple. What you see is a reflection of what was done in a specific temple on a given day and is a record of that event. To correct your information, use Ancestral File, or the Pedigree Resource File.
<Jelly>  So, the IGI will not have the correct information in this case?
<FHLDavid>  No, it will have the information as it was submitted. You should place a note in your personal file and submission.
<Jelly>  Okay, Thank you.
<charanne>  Will the NEW Ellis Island Index be available to purchase on CD-ROM?
<FHLDavid>  At this time, the Ellis Island data will be managed by the Ellis Island Foundation. We have given them the database of names to use on their web site.
<charanne>  Will this web site have the entire Index available.
<FHLDavid>  Yes, the index will be available for free. Additional information may be available for a fee.
<charanne>  Thanks
<BeccaRose>  what method do you have in place for maintaining current contact info for submitters?
<FHLDavid>  None, next question...most people are choosing to resubmit their files to Pedigree Resource File with new or updated addresses.
<BeccaRose>  what about the ones I've found marked 'deceased'?
<BeccaRose>  how did you find out?
<FHLDavid>  Some people put 'deceased' in the data. I'm unaware of submitter's names being marked 'deceased'.
<BeccaRose>  I've found a handful
<FHLDavid>  When you submit a correction to the Ancestral File, you can change the submitter address or mark deceased, I just remembered.
<jackieb>  David,I just wanted to say I'm very grateful to LDS for their aarchives-where would be be w/o those files?
<NGSJohn>  I agree
<FHLDavid>  I marvel myself at the size of the collection and the effort that has gone into gathering the information from around the world. I think where we'd all be is on the airplane going to courthouses and parishes.
<cyndihow>  Wonderfully put, Jackie! We are all in debt to the church for their generous contributions to the genealogical community.
<Cmarie>  where is the best place to get the education needed for genealogical research on line and off
<FHLDavid>  This is the part where NGS wants me to plug their educational resources. John, your 2-cents. There are also a number of Institutes around the country. You may also use the Education tab under Library on the familysearch.org site.
<cyndihow>  Introduction to Genealogy - Online Course
<NGSJohn>  there is incredible potential with education and what is happening online
<cyndihow>  NGS - Education & Training
<NGSJohn>  we could use a chat room for example as a classroom for our homestudy course
<NGSJohn>  then there is the potential of more online courses
<genealogyADM>  I use my chat room and Let's Learn Genealogy Forum as a free interactive way to teach people
<genealogyADM>  And the NGS courses are wonderful - I highly recommend them to everyone!
<NGSJohn>  The internet is a way for those of us in genealogy who teach to reach out
<FHLDavid>  Brigham Young University has some wonderful on-line sites through KBYU Ancestors site. 
<cyndihow>  Cyndi's List - Education Resources
<NGSJohn>  THE world of genealogy has changed and well some out there are way behind the curve
<genealogyADM>  About Genealogy - Education/Classes
<Cmarie>  thanks
<FHLDavid>  Try also Finding Your Ancestors
<NGSJohn>  NGS has an online course and a 16 part home study course
<NancyNurse>  I am taking the NGS home study course right now.
<NGSJohn>  go to www.ngsgenealogy.org for details
<NancyNurse>  It has taught me a lot, it is a great course!
<NGSJohn>  thanks Nancy
<NGSJohn>  we are in the process of working on a second stage course
<NancyNurse>  I have Emailed John a couple of times and he has promptly replied with the help I needed.
<NancyNurse>  More? There is more?
<NGSJohn>  thanks Nancy
<NGSJohn>  we are working on a second course, yes.
<genealogyADM>  Awesome John!
<NancyNurse>  Great, I'd like to hear more about it as it progresses.
<NGSJohn>  the course we are working with was originally authored by Helen Leary
<NancyNurse>  Maybe as a graduate, I would have some insight.
<cyndihow>  Did Nancy have a question for David?
<NancyNurse>  I only wanted to thank David for all the information that has been made available to me.
<NGSJohn>  David, do you see the day when we can order microfilm online and have them sent to our local FHC?
<cyndihow>  John -- you stole my dream question. <G>
<FHLDavid>  There are several companies that offer the capability. One of them is Fretwell Downing who currently provides the program for the Family History Library Catalog. Certainly, we would be amiss if we were not exploring all available options. Stay tuned...
<BeccaRose>  Are there any plans to add sourcing information back to the Ancestral File submissions?
<FHLDavid>  Ancestral File is being redesigned with the best features of Ancestral File and Pedigree Resource File. I hope for the day we see sources.
<BeccaRose>  good to know it's in progress
<BeccaRose>  thanks
<rikki>  I am having problems downloading saved 'GEDCOM' files from the IGI. I have Internet explorer 5.5 but when I download the gedcom files they seem to be converted to html files and unreadable. I have searched the help files on the website and they show you how to resolve the problem for Macs, Netscape and Explorer 4.5, but unfortunately nothing for explorer 5.5. I know the solution is looking me in the face.  Can you help?
<FHLDavid>  For assistance with technical download questions, call 1-800-346-6044.
<cyndihow>  OK David. John stole my question, but I'll put a different spin on it.
<cyndihow>  How much ice cream should I give you in order to get online microfilm ordering through FamilySearch?
<BeccaRose>  lol Cyndi.......I'll chip in
<genealogyADM>  I'll send boxes of homemade chocolate chip cookies :-)
<FHLDavid>  If it were my decision and my ability to implement, it would already be done. Ice cream is always appreciated, don't give up hope.
<NGSJohn>  I would assume that perhaps once the program was set up it could save volunteer time
<NGSJohn>  yes, if a patron could order their own film from home and have it sent to a local FHC there could be a volunteer time savings
<MichelleNJ>  David, can you recommend a good approach on how to monitor when new films become available? Especially films in Ukraine/Eastern European..
<cyndihow>  Michele - GOOD question!
<FHLDavid>  Yes, go into the FHLC, list the subject headings for your locality. Printout that page and check the next version for the item counts. New item counts will signal additions to the collection. We're working on getting a 'new' button for the FamilySearch Internet version.
<cyndihow>  Wonderful tip, David. I didn't know about the item counts.
<genealogyADM>  Me either :)
<MichelleNJ>  What about films released but not immediately published in the online catalog?
<cyndihow>  To add to that question -- how soon are new films added to the online catalog?
<MichelleNJ>  Thanks for the item count tip... will check it out!!
<FHLDavid>  We are trying to increase the catalog update frequency. I think you will be pleased with the results in the near future.
<genealogyADM>  Is there any way to report a possible error in the library catalog?
<MichelleNJ>  Thank you!!
<FHLDavid>  New films are cataloged as fast as we have staff for that locality. There is sometimes a considerable delay dependent on the number of microfilm cameras operating vs. the number of cataloging staff.
<genealogyADM>  I had a chatter a few weeks ago whose book was microfilmed quite a while ago. His name now shows up as an author in the FHLC, but the book does not
<FHLDavid>  Yes, e-mail the library at <fhl@ldschurch.org>
<genealogyADM>  Thanks David - this was a wonderful chat!
<genealogyADM>  For those of you who may have missed part of it, the transcript will be online tomorrow and will be announced in my next newsletter
<FHLDavid>  Thanks to everyone who participated, it was my pleasure.
<cyndihow>  Yes, this was terrific. Thank you for sharing your time and your expertise with us, David.
<genealogyADM>  You're more than welcome to come back anytime :-)
<NGSJohn>  David, on behalf of NGS thanks!!!
<genealogyADM>  It's an honor to have you
<genealogyADM>  And thank you to the National Genealogical Society for sponsoring this chat
<genealogyADM>  :)
<genealogyADM>  I'm going to turn off moderation now so that you can all thank David personally!
<Cmarie>  thanks david
<BeccaRose>  thank you all
<NancyNurse>  Thank you David
<AmyOhio>  Thanks everyone!
<Jelly>  Thanks. A lot!
<Eagle>  Thank you very much. Was very informative. I'd also like to add thanks for all the LDS has done.
<jackieb>  Thanks David, I learned a lot and will be from the resources you provided.
<lvwendy>  Thank you
<Guest2497>  Thanks. PAT
<Carrie>  David, thank you and please come back!
<MichelleNJ>  David, a big Thank You!!
<genealogyADM>  Yes - I will be putting the transcript online tomorrow
<HelenNY>  thank you all enjoyed very much
<alicethecat>  Thanks David I really wish I could of gotten here MUCH earlier
<Sharon>  Thanks David, John and Cyndi
<UnkHiram>  John, David, Cyndi, Kimberly Great Job
<ShellyOntheWeb>  thank David. And John, I'm currently taking the home study course and I want to say thanks for all the great comments you've made on my lessons. I appreciate the nice words!
<Nancy>  Thank you, I missed most of it but will read the transcript!
<Guest4179>  my grandmother is just beginning genealogy would this be a good place for her to learn?
<BeccaRose>  Rikki sends her thanks too David....she'd tell you herself but she's still gagged :)
<xstitch>  Thanks. First time on. I've really learned something.
<pbg>  lol
<cyndihow>  Guest4179 -- she should visit her local FHC.
<UnkHiram>  Guest4179, yes its a very good place
<KateG>  and, to John, more interaction online for the Home Study Course would be such a boon!
<BeccaRose>  Kim's site is a good place to start Try her Beginner's Corner or her free genealogy class
<BeccaRose>  glad you made it Audie!
<jackieb>  ROFL
<Guest4179>  FHC?
<cyndihow>  Guest 4179 also see Cyndi's List
<NGSJohn>  Kate I agree
<BeccaRose>  Family History Center
<AudieSue>  Thanks I surely thought I'd botch it.
<ShellyOntheWeb>  I agree w/Kate about the course interaction :)
<Guest4179>  ok
<BeccaRose>  :)
<AudieSue>  A friend emailed me to get on this chat.
<UnkHiram>  How did y'all tie Rikki down long enough to gag her (GRIN)
<charanne>  Thanks to all for all the great things that you are doing for Genealogy on the Web and also else where.
<AudieSue>  I'd not heard about this before
<BeccaRose>  it takes some getting used to but now that you know how you can join us every night!
<charanne>  Cyndi really like your article in the new NGS magazine.
<cyndihow>  Thank you Char.
<BeccaRose>  how did you find us Audie?
<ShellyOntheWeb>  yes Cyndi it was great. And your lectures were great in Raleigh last month
<cyndihow>  Thank you, Shelly!
<BeccaRose>  LOL Unk......she kicks and bites
<AudieSue>  My friend gave me the URL
<cyndihow>  Time to feed my boys....
<Billie>  My first time too. Don't quite have the hang of it yet. Will try again though, very interesting.!
<cyndihow>  good night all!
<UnkHiram>  Nite Cyndi, enjoyed it
<BeccaRose>  g'night Cyndi....and thanks
<MichelleNJ>  Good night!!
<alicethecat>  nite cyndi
<genealogyADM>  For you first timers - moderated chats are a little confusing
<genealogyADM>  Goodnight Cyndi
<genealogyADM>  Thanks for your help!
<ShellyOntheWeb>  Hiram, your columns are hysterical thanks for the laughs :)
<Sage>  God chat. Thanks David. Need to go watch the new version of JESUS on the tv. See you all later or tomorrow.
<UnkHiram>  Shelly, You are welcome, Always glad to get feedback
<AudieSue>  I'm here to learn!
<genealogyADM>  Our regular chats are not moderated so you don't have to follow all of these rules ;-)
<charanne>  What is the URL that the chat log will be posted at tomorrow?
<BeccaRose>  good for you Billie.....Tuesdays and Wednesday nights are really good for getting started here
<NancyNurse>  thanks all, for the informative chat. Nite
<genealogyADM>  Charanne it will be linked from this page 
<Sage>  Bye all
<BeccaRose>  night Sage
<ShellyOntheWeb>  yeah Hiram, from one redneck to another, I can relate to so much you write. LOL thanks again
<pbg>  night Sage..:)
<MichelleNJ>  Have to run... thanks for letting sneak in my question!! NGSJohn, these chats are great. Do hope NGS will continue them!!
<NGSJohn>  On behalf of NGS thanks to all of your for being here

 

Step-by-Step Guide to the FamilySearch Web Site & Family History Centers

Part One
Introduction to the World's greatest genealogy resource, the Family History Library with step-by-step instructions on how to use the FamilySearch Web site to find surnames and family trees.

Part Two
Part 2 of this series introduces a genealogy research aid, Research Guidance, which is especially useful when you can't find the information you are looking for online or when you need help in determining which records to search.

Part Three
Part 3 of this series explains how to use the Family History Library Catalog to find census records, ships passenger lists, vital records, family histories, bible records, and much more!

Part Four
Come explore another great research option on the FamilySearch Web site, Research Helps.  Here's the scoop on what these tools can do for you, with step-by-step instructions on how to make the most of them in your genealogy research!

Part Five
An insiders look into Family History Centers - what they are, how to use them, and a virtual tour with a Family History Center volunteer. Learn why these are the best genealogy resource you have!

 



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