At this long-awaited in-person gathering we will honor Mary Beth Norton, one of the most distinguished historians in America, with the NEHGS Lifetime Achievement Award in History. Professor Norton will share insights on the intersections and synergies between the study of history and genealogy and discuss her latest work, 1774: The Long Year of Revolution, a Wall Street Journal Best Book of the Year. As a memento of the occasion, D. Brenton Simons will present her with a detailed history of her family—researched and written by a staff genealogist and hand-bound in marbled paper and leather—and Ryan Woods will confer the lifetime achievement award. Join us in Boston on October 28. Register Now
Last Chance for Two Nathaniel Philbrick Events!
Noted Historian and Mayflower author on Writing History and Travels with George
Join us for two events with author Nathaniel Philbrick, first as he discusses his new book, Travels with George, chronicling President George Washington's journeys in the fall of 1789, and then his approach to "Writing History"—the inspirations, research methods, and writing process that have brought him success.
In the fall of 1789 and only six months into his presidency, Washington set out on the first of four road trips as he attempted to unite into a single nation what were, in essence, thirteen independent states. In the fall of 2018, Nathaniel Philbrick, his wife, and dog set out to retrace Washington’s route. At historic houses and landmarks from Savannah, Georgia, to Kittery Point, Maine, Philbrick met reenactors, tour guides, and other keepers of history’s flame. Hear about their journey in a discussion of his new book, Travels with George, September 23 at 6 p.m. ET. Register Now
After the free event, join us for an extended Q+A with the author at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Moderator Ryan J. Woods will be joined by Catherine Allgor, President of the Massachusetts Historical Society, to facilitate this enlightening and interactive conversation. Separate registration and fee required. Includes signed and personalized copy of Travels with George.Register Now
Register by October 1!
In-Person Research Tour to Salt Lake City
Navigate the resources of the world’s largest genealogy library with the help of experts from American Ancestors. With our more than 40 years of experience leading researchers of all levels to Salt Lake City, you'll benefit from our special orientations and tutorials, one-on-one consultations, informative lectures, and more. November 7 to 13, 2021. Register Now
Spotlight: Wisconsin Obituary Database
by Valerie Beaudrault
The city of Clintonville is located in Waupaca County, in central Wisconsin. The Clintonville Public Library has made an obituary database available on its website. The records in the index have been drawn from the Clintonville Herald (March 1879-October 1879), The Clintonville Tribune (1882-1968), The Clintonville Gazette (1919-1940), The Clintonville Tribune-Gazette (1968- 2009, 2014-present), the County Post East (2009-2014), and the Clintonville Chronicle (2009-present). Search the database by keyword. Click the ‘Browse Search’ link to access the advanced search. The obituary index is a work in progress. Additional genealogical and historical resources can be found under the Local History link in the contents bar. Search Now
Fall Research Getaway
Enjoy three days of research, one-on-one consultations, and social events while exploring the rich offerings at our research center and benefitting from the expertise of our genealogists. October 21 to 23. Register Now
New Book!
Longtime collectors John and Judy Herdeg introduce their eighteenth-century house and its grounds and provide a tour of its rooms, which are filled with favorite objects from their American fine and decorative arts collection.
From the colonial period through the 19th and early 20th centuries, this course will guide you through the maze of genealogical pitfalls to the bright spots in New York research. October 6, 13, 20, and 27
The history of American community cookbooks stretches back into the 19th century. Nantucket Receipts, a Boston cookbook published in the 1870s to raise funds for a local hospital, was apparently the country’s first community cookbook.
When a cousin discovered an old Christmas postcard sent from Kleczew, Poland, to South River, New Jersey, Mary Lou Peters and her daughter, Paula Zackeru, began researching their family history. Eighteen family members recently traveled to Poland.
“Millions of Freedmen’s Bureau records have become newly available, helping to break down a barrier to history that many Black families couldn't access.”
Last week's survey asked if you're a current member of any genealogical and historical societies. We received 1,596 responses. The results are:
27%, I belong to one genealogical society.
45%, I belong to two to four genealogical societies.
12%, I belong to five or more genealogical societies.
11%, I don’t belong to any genealogical societies.
27%, I belong to one historical society.
21%, I belong to two to four historical societies.
3%, I belong to five or more historical societies.
20%, I don’t belong to any historical societies.
This week's survey asks if any of your ancestors or relatives contributed to a community cookbook. Take the survey now.
Want to share your thoughts on the survey with us? We are always happy to hear from our readers. Email us at weeklygenealogist@nehgs.org. Responses may be edited for clarity and length and featured in a future newsletter.
New Volumes!
New Searchable Catholic Records Volumes
This week we’re announcing the addition of 43 new volumes and 10 updated volumes to Massachusetts: Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston Records, 1789-1920 from Sacred Heart of Jesus (Cambridge), Our Lady of the Assumption (Chelsea), St. James (Haverhill), St. Rita (Haverhill), St. Mary (Lawrence), St. Margaret of Scotland (Lowell), St. Patrick (Lowell), St. Peter (Lowell), Sacred Hearts (Malden), Our Lady Star of the Sea (Marblehead), St. Mary of the Annunciation (Melrose), and Sacred Heart (Natick). This update is part of our multi-year collaboration with the Archdiocese of Boston.
As we navigate through a constantly changing world, we all appreciate the things in life that really matter: family, legacy, and community. As a non-profit focused on family history, heritage, and culture, we rely on donations from generous supporters like you to continue to provide a wide range of programs and services. Any size gift makes a difference. Thank you for your consideration and generous support! Give Now
