Summer Issue of FORUM Available

Knowing where to look for records is crucial to finding them. In "Town Records: Your Key to New England Research Success," Michael J. Leclerc, CG, explains the local government structure you need to know for successful research in New England. 

In "Interlibrary Loan: A Useful Tool in Your Genealogy Toolkit," Tina Beaird, MLIS discusses why accessing resources held in distant libraries doesn't necessarily require a road trip.

Katherine R. Willson discusses bringing to life the stories of our veterans in "Preserving Veterans' Voices."

Genealogists are constantly looking for information that relates to their ancestors. Melissa Barker provides ideas about "Where to Find Diaries, Journals & Letters."

And that's not all. 

4 ..... Editor's Message: Summer Reading

6 ..... Town Records: Your Key to New England Research Success by Michael J. Leclerc, CG

11 ..... Interlibrary Loan: A Useful Tool in Your Genealogy Toolkit by Tina Beaird, MLIS

16 ..... Preserving Veterans' Voices by Katherine R. Willson

20 ..... FGS 2018 Is the Place To Be

25 ..... Where to Find Diaries, Journals & Letters by Melissa Barker

29 ..... Ethics & Standards: Separation Anxiety by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL

32 ..... Next Generation: Genealogy Seasons by Shannon Combs-Bennett

34 ..... Records Preservation & Access: New Projects, Research Help & More by Linda McCleary, MLS

37 ..... Beyond Boxes & Binders: Elevate Your Storytelling by Linda Coffin

39 ..... Forensic Genealogy: Forensic Genealogy is Not Finding the Living by Helen Haldeman Daglas

43 ..... Reviews

55 ..... Before You Go . . . Georgia's Virtual Vault

How to access FORUM:

The FGS website will be switched to a new platform soon. To ensure that FGS member society leadership and FORUM individual subscribers have access to this latest issue during this transition, we emailed a direct link to the Summer 2018 issue of the magazine.

Current FGS Member Society Leadership: The email with the direct link to the magazine was sent to the main contact for each member society. Board members and FGS delegates of member societies have access to the magazine through the society's membership. If your organization is an FGS member and you did not receive the link, please email forum@fgs.org.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): The email with the direct link to the magazine was sent to the email address on file for each subscriber. If you are a FORUM subscriber and you did not receive the link, please email forum@fgs.org.

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Genealogical Society Leaders: If your society is not a member of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership.

Spring 2018 Issue of FORUM Available

FORUM has a new look!.
Color is incorporated throughout regular departments and columns for some flair and brightness, but the biggest change is the page size. We've changed the page size to make it easier for screen reading on different devices. Also debuting with this issue are two new departments—Inbox and Help Desk, Inbox is similar to Letters to the Editor columns seen in many publications and Help Desk is the place to ask questions. 

In "State Historical Society Periodicals: Treasures Beyond the Articles," Diane Dittgen explains the kinds of information you might find in the special features in society publications.

Denise Barrett Olson discusses how to "Take Your Society's Policy & Procedure Manual Online" and the advantages of an online manual.

Get a sneak peek at the tracks and speakers for the FGS 2018 Conference coming up August 22–25 in Fort Wayne, Indiana in "FGS 2018.Conference Preview." 

And that's not all.

3 ..... President's Message: Spring Cleaning Equals Taking Stock

5 ..... Editor's Message: A New FORUM

7 ..... Inbox

8 ..... Help Desk

9 ..... State Historical Society Periodicals: Treasures Beyond the Articles by Diane Dittgen

16 ..... FGS 2018 Conference Preview: Program Tracks & Speakers

20 ..... Take Your Society's Policy & Procedure Manual Online by Denise Barrett Olson

24 ..... Ethics & Standards: A Lecture on Lectures: Copyright & Ethics by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL

27 ..... Next Generation: Just Ask! by Shannon Combs-Bennett

29 ..... Records Preservation & Access: OCLC Partners With Internet Archive, New Indexes Online & More by Linda McCleary, MLS

32 ..... Forensic Genealogy: Forensic Genealogy and the Genealogical Proof Standard by Helen Haldeman Daglas

37 ..... Reviews

47 ..... Before You Go . . .

How to access FORUM:

The FGS website will be switched to a new platform very soon. To ensure that FGS member society leadership and FORUM individual subscribers have access to this latest issue during this transition, we emailed a direct link to the Spring 2018 issue of the magazine.

Current FGS Member Society Leadership:
The email with the direct link to the magazine was sent to the main contact and the delegate for each member society. If your society is an FGS member and you did not receive the link, please email forum@fgs.org.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): The email with the direct link to the magazine was sent to the email address on file for each subscriber. If you are a FORUM subscriber and you did not receive the link, please email forum@fgs.org.

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Genealogical Society Leaders: If your society is not a member of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership.

FGS FORUM: We Want to Hear from You

FORUM will see some new and exciting changes in 2018, including the rollout of two new features—and we need your help to get them off and running!

First, we’d like to hear from you! Select letters sent to the editor related to recent articles will now be included in future issues. Here’s your chance to tell us how an article helped you with society management endeavors or your personal research. You also may provide your own advice or additional commentary on a recent article topic. Your feedback is important and we want to share your thoughts with other readers.

Second, we want to help you! Select questions related to genealogy or society management will be answered by knowledgeable experts and presented in future issues of FORUM. Maybe you’re looking for some good record substitutes for the 1890 census, or perhaps you want to know what a quitclaim deed is and in what situations it is used. Society leaders may also have questions. Program chairs may seek advice on best practices for hiring speakers, while treasurers may want guidance to better track expenses. 

Whatever the question, we’d like to help!

Please send your letters and questions to the editor at forumeditor@fgs.org.

Winter 2017 Issue of FORUM Is Available

Learn how to craft and track brief yet productive communications that promote collaboration with your DNA matches from Blaine T. Bettinger, PhD, JD, in "Communicating with Your DNA Matches."

How does your society handle that neverending list of demands and projects? How do you track personal research projects? Cheri Daniels, MSLS, examines steps for finding a project management solution that works for your organization or for your individual needs in "Affordable Project Management Software, Your Organizational Game Changer."

In "Is Your Society Reaping the Benefits of a Writing Group?" Lynn Palermo explains the benefits of a writing group and how to start one.

And that's not all. 

Table of Contents

3 ...... Editor's Message

6 ...... President's Message: The Joy of Memories by Rorey Cathcart

8 ...... Communicating with Your DNA Matches by Blaine T. Bettinger, PhD, JD

12 ...... Affordable Project Management Software: Your Organizational Game Changer by Cheri Daniels, MSLS

18 ...... DNA & the Modern Genealogist by Sara Allen, MLIS

21 ...... Is Your Society Reaping the Benefits of a Writing Group? by Lynn Palermo

26 ...... Ethics & Standards: Keeping Up with the Times by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL

28 ...... Next Generation: Cut Educational Costs with Scholarships & Grants by Shannon Combs-Bennett

30 ...... Beyond Boxes & Binders: Interviewing Grandma: Collecting the Stories – Part 2 by Linda Coffin

34 ...... Records Preservation & Access: Missouri-Born Adoptee News, Digital Collections & More by Linda McCleary, MLS

37 ...... Reviews

45 ...... Before You Go . . .

How to access FORUM:

The FGS website will be switched to a new platform very soon. To ensure that FGS member society leadership and FORUM individual subscribers have access to this latest issue during this transition, we emailed a direct link to the Winter 2017 issue of the magazine.

Current FGS Member Society Leadership:
The email with the direct link to the magazine was sent to the main contact and the delegate for each member society. If your society is an FGS member and you did not receive the link, please email forum@fgs.org.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): The email with the direct link to the magazine was sent to the email address on file for each subscriber. If you are a FORUM subscriber and you did not receive the link, please email forum@fgs.org.

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Genealogical Society Leaders: If your society is not a member of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership. 

Summer 2017 Issue of FORUM is Out

If you need more from your genealogy software, Elizabeth O'Neal has advice for shopping around in "Desperately Seeking Software: How To Find Your Perfect Match." 

For those of you heading to Pittsburgh for the FGS 2017 conference in August, Marilyn Cocchiola Holt, MLS, gives you "A Guide to Research Facilities in Pittsburgh and Nearby Areas."

Rachel M. Popma has tips for newsletter and journal editors in "Society Publications: How to Find Valuable Content for Your Readers." 

In "Google for Nonprofits," Denise Barrett Olson explains how to use these simple yet powerful tools to streamline society management. 

And that's not all. 

Table of Contents

3 ...... Editor's Message

6 ...... President's Message: Full Circle by Rorey Cathcart

8 ...... Desperately Seeking Software: How to Find Your Perfect Match by Elizabeth O'Neal

13 ...... FGS 2017 Conference: A Guide to Research Facilities in Pittsburgh and Nearby Areas by Marilyn Cocchiola Holt, MLS

18 ...... Society Publications: How to Find Valuable Content for Your Readers by Rachel M. Popma

23 ...... Google for Nonprofits by Denise Barrett Olson

28 ...... Next Generation: Consider Sponsoring a Scholarship by Shannon Combs-Bennett

30 ...... Forensic Genealogy: The Case for Turning Down Contingency Fees by Helen Haldeman Daglas

32 ...... Records Preservation & Access: RPAC News, Dawes Rolls, Digitized Records & More by Linda McCleary, MLS

36 ...... Reviews

47 ...... Before You Go . . .

How to access FORUM:

Current FGS Member Society Leadership: Sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on FGS FORUM – Latest Issue in the sidebar.) Don't forget to renew your membership in order for your society's leadership to continue to access FORUM and its archives.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on Volume 29 No. 1 to read.)

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Not already a subscriber? You can subscribe today to FGS FORUM.

Genealogical Society Leaders: If your society is not a member of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership. 

Fall Issue of FORUM is out: Female Ancestors: Discovering Their Stories, Form Strong Membership Bonds Using SIGs and Small Study Groups, & more!

The Fall 2016 issue of FORUM is out today. Download your copy and kick off family history month with ideas for your research and your society.

"Female Ancestors: Discovering Their Stories" by Melissa Barker challenges you to see your female ancestors in a different light and contemplate the records that can help you tell their stories and advance your research.

In "Form Strong Membership Bonds Using SIGs and Small Study Groups" Cari A. Taplin, CG, discusses the difference between special interest and study groups and how these kinds of groups can supplement your society's education programming and build membership.

Learn how easy it is to bring your genealogical society to your members  in "Up Periscope: Mobile Live Streaming for Your Society" by Elizabeth Swanay-O'Neal.

And that's not all. Take a peek inside.

Table of Contents

3 ...... From the Editor

6 ...... President's Message: Looking Ahead by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS

7 ...... Female Ancestors: Discovering Their Stories by Melissa Barker

11 ...... Form Strong Membership Bonds Using SIGs and Small Study Groups by Cari A. Taplin, CG

15 ...... A Look Back at FGS 2016 by Linda McCauley

19 ...... Up Periscope: Mobile Live Streaming for Your Society by Elizabeth Swanay-O'Neal

25 ...... Preserve the Pensions Project Fully Funded

27 ...... Ethics & Standards: Author: Unknown by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL

30 ...... Next Generation: Always Look for the Newest Sources by Shannon Combs-Bennett

32 ...... Forensic Genealogy: Educational Opportunities for the Forensic Genealogist by Michael S. Ramage, JD, CG

34 ...... Beyond Boxes & Binders: How Do I Make My Stories Interesting? by Linda Coffin

36 ...... Records Preservation & Access: RPAC News, New Online Indexes & More by Linda McCleary, MLS

39 ...... Reviews

Check out the FGS 2017 conference flyer at the end of this issue!

How to access FORUM:

Current FGS Member Society Leadership: Sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on FGS FORUM – Latest Issue in the sidebar.) Don't forget to renew your membership in order for your society's leadership to continue to access FORUM and its archives.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on Volume 28 No. 3 to read.)

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Not already a subscriber? You can subscribe today to FGS FORUM.

Genealogical Society Leaders: If your society is not a member of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership. Read more about how else FGS empowers Member Society Leaders to manage successful societies.

Summer Issue of FORUM is out: Education is Key! Enhancing Member Benefits Using Education, Researching in School Records, Navigating Voyages, & more!

The Summer 2016 issue of FORUM is out today. Take a break, prop up your feet, and enjoy seventy-six pages of articles and columns for genealogists and society leaders.  

In "Education is Key! Enhancing Member Benefits Using Education" Cari Taplin, CG, details various types of educational opportunities societies can offer to create a feeling of community, inclusion, and friendship.

"Researching in School Records: Even if Your Ancestor Didn't Attend School" by Melissa Barker explains the wealth of information found in these records. 

Gena Philibert-Ortega gives tips for society leaders, especially program planners, in "The Proper Care & Feeding of Genealogy Speakers." 

Learn how to use the Trans-Atantic Slave Trade Database in "Navigating Voyages" by Ted Bainbridge, PhD. 

And that's not all. Take a peek inside.

Table of Contents

3 ...... From the Editor

6 ...... President's Message: Celebrating 40 Years by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS

8 ...... Education is Key! Enhancing Member Benefits Using Education by Cari A. Taplin, CG

13 ...... Researching in School Records: Even If Your Ancestor Didn't Attend School by Melissa Barker

18 ...... FGS 2016 Conference: 4 Reasons You Should Attend by Julie Cahill Tarr

22 ...... The Proper Care & Feeding of Genealogy Speakers by Gena Philibert-Ortega

28 ...... FGS Awards: A History of Recognizing Exceptional Service by Linda McCauley

32 ...... Navigating Voyages by Ted Bainbridge, PhD

42 ...... Meet the FGS Board compiled by Linda McCauley

51 ...... Spotlight on Member Projects: Online Databases, Research Assistance & More by Caroline Pointer

55 ...... Ethics & Standards: The Downside of CTRL+C, CTRL+V by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL

57 ...... Next Generation: Certificates, Certifications & Degrees: Are They the Same? by Shannon Combs-Bennett

60 ...... Forensic Genealogy: Genetic Genealogy: A Tool for the Forensic Genealogist by Michael S. Ramage, JD, CG

63 ...... Beyond Boxes & Binders: How Do I Choose Which Stories to Tell? by Linda Coffin

65 ...... Records Preservation & Access: New Digital Collection, RPAC News & More by Linda McCleary, MLS

68 ...... Reviews

How to access FORUM:

Current FGS Member Society Leadership: Sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on FGS FORUM – Latest Issue in the sidebar.) Don't forget to renew your membership in order for your society's leadership to continue to access FORUM and its archives.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on Volume 28 No. 2 to read.)

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Not already a subscriber? You can subscribe today to FGS FORUM.

Genealogical Societies: If you are not a member society of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership. Read more about how else FGS empowers Member Society Leaders to manage successful societies.

Latest FORUM Issue Out: Researching in Libraries & Archives: The Dos & Don'ts, New Columns Forensic Genealogy and Beyond Boxes & Binders; and more!

It will officially be spring in a few days, but the Spring 2016 issue of FORUM is out today.

In "Researching in Libraries & Archives: The Dos & Don'ts," Melissa Barker, Certified Archivist, details best practices for getting the most out of your visits and contacts with repositories.

Janice Lovelace, PhD, discusses research approaches in "Breaking Through Brick Walls: 10 Strategies to Find Your African American Ancestors."

"Railroad Worker Ancestors & Their Records" by Paula Stuart-Warren, CG, FMGS, FUGA, takes a look at the wealth of records available for this occupation.

We are pleased to welcome three new members to the FORUM team with this issue. Michael S. Ramage, JD, CG, and Linda Coffin begin columns Forensic Genealogy and Beyond Boxes & Binders, respectively. And Melissa Barker takes over as the Reviews Editor. 

Included in this issue: the full FGS 2016 Conference Brochure, featuring details about the program, events, and more! 

And that's not all. Take a peek inside.

Table of Contents

3 ...... From the Editor

6 ...... President's Message: Bridging Tradition & Technology by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS

8 ...... Researching in Libraries & Archives: The Dos & Don'ts by Melissa Barker

12 ...... Breaking Through Brick Walls, 10 Strategies to Find Your African American Ancestors by Janice Lovelace, PhD

16 ...... A Look Back at Past FGS Conferences by Linda McCauley

22 ...... Railroad Worker Ancestors & Their Records by Paula Stuart-Warren, CG, FMGS, FUGA

27 ...... FGS Charter Members

29 ...... Spotlight on Member Projects: Research Services, Volunteer Opportunities & More by Caroline Pointer

33 ...... Ethics & Standards: Not So Very Different by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL

36 ...... Next Generation: The Importance of Self-Editing by Shannon Combs-Bennett

38 ...... Forensic Genealogy: Forensic Genealogist versus Traditional Family Historian by Michael S. Ramage, JD, CG

40 ...... Beyond Boxes & Binders: Be the Ancestor Your Descendants Will Appreciate by Linda Coffin

42 ...... Records Preservation & Access: Preservation Projects, Online Records & More by Linda McCleary, MLS

45 ...... Reviews

How to access FORUM:

Current FGS Member Society Leadership: Sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on FGS FORUM – Latest Issue in the sidebar.) Don't forget to renew your membership in order for your society's leadership to continue to access FORUM and its archives.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on Volume 28 No. 1 to read.)

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Not already a subscriber? You can subscribe today to FGS FORUM.

Genealogical Societies: If you are not a member society of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership. Read more about how else FGS empowers Member Society Leaders to manage successful societies.

FGS Seeks Design and Layout Editor for FORUM

The Federation of Genealogical Societies seeks a Design and Layout Editor for our quarterly digital magazine, FORUM, to begin immediately upon finalizing a contract.

Duties include design and layout of each issue of FORUM and working with the managing editor to adhere to the production schedule.

View the full job description for duties and responsibilities.

Interested parties should submit a résumé and digital work samples to Linda McCauley, FGS Publications Committee Chair, at publications@fgs.org. Any questions should also be directed to that email address.

The deadline for submissions is March 23, 2016.

Latest FORUM Issue Out: 11 Tips to Get Organized in 2016, Delicious Deals for Your Genealogical Society, & more!

2016 marks the 40th anniversary of the Federation of Genealogical Societies and FGS is celebrating everywhere including in FORUM. Did you know that FGS held it's first annual conference in 1981, coordinated indexing the Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System, and spearheaded efforts to stop NARA destruction of Railroad Retirement Board pensions files? You'll find these and other accomplishments and highlights in "FGS Celebrates 40 Years."

Get organized
Start the new year with "11 Tips to Get Organized in 2016" by Janine Adams.

Add research to your conference trip

In "FGS 2016 Conference: Research Opportunities In and Around Springfield, Illinois" Thomas MacEntee highlights area archives and repositories to work into your 2016 conference travel plans.

Save money for your society

Elizabeth Swanay-O'Neal discusses "Delicious Deals for Your Genealogical Society" from techsoup.

And that's not all. Take a peek inside.

Table of Contents

3 ..... From the Editors

6 ..... President's Message: Saying Thanks by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS

8 ..... 11 Tips to Get Organized in 2016 by Janine Adams

12 ..... FGS Celebrates 40 Years compiled by Linda McCauley

17 ..... Delicious Deals for Your Genealogical Society by Elizabeth Swanay-O'Neal

21 ..... Flickr for Societies by Denise Barrett Olson

25 ..... FGS 2016 Conference: Research Opportunities In and Around Springfield, Illinois by Thomas MacEntee

31 ..... Board Members Across the Years compiled by Linda McCauley and Loretto "Lou" Szucs

40 ..... Spotlight on Member Projects: Writing Opportunities, Transcription Projects & More by Caroline Pointer

44 ..... Ethics & Standards: The Ethics of Kindness by Judy G. Russell, JD, CGSM, CGLSM

47 ..... Next Generation Developing Your Leadership Qualities by Shannon Combs-Bennett

49 ..... Records Preservation & Access: Digitization Initiatives & More by Linda McCleary, MLS

52 ..... Reviews

How to access FORUM:

Current FGS Member Societies: Sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on FGS FORUM – Latest Issue in the sidebar.) Don't forget to renew your membership in order for your society's leadership to continue to access FORUM and its archives.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on Volume 27 No. 4 to read.)

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Not already a subscriber? You can subscribe today to FGS FORUM and start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device.

Genealogical Societies: If you are not a member society of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership. Read more about how else FGS empowers Member Society Leaders to manage successful societies.

Looking for a Few Good Writers for FORUM

Are you interested in sharing your knowledge with the genealogy community? Why not write an article for FORUM? We are looking for research-related and society-related articles for upcoming issues.  We are open to other topics, but here is a list of working titles to get your thoughts flowing:

Research-Related Articles

• Roaming Among the Stones: ## Tips for Effective Cemetery Research
• Top ## Strategies for Researching Your Jewish Ancestors
• City Directories: More Than Just a List of Names
• How to Choose the Genealogy Database Program That’s Right for You
• Cousin Connection: Reaching Out to Distant Relatives
• DNA Research Strategies for Adoptees
• How to Plan an Unforgettable Family Reunion

Society-Related Articles

• Cloud Computing, Can Your Society Benefit?
• ## Unique Project Ideas for Your Society
• Is It Time to Bring Your Bylaws Into the 21st Century?
• Enhance Your Membership Benefits with Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
• ## Ways to Engage Your Long-Distance Members

Need more ideas?  Think about how you use certain programs/apps or products for genealogy, such as Evernote, spreadsheets, or scanners, and share your tips for success.  Or, what about sharing your specialized knowledge of underutilized resources such as state censuses, court records, legislative petitions, or territorial papers?  Are you well-acquainted with researching an ethnic group and can offer tips to others?  Are you a past or present society leader with words of wisdom to pass along to new society leaders?  The possibilities are endless!

If you are interested in writing an article (or two!) for FORUM, please contact me at forumeditor@fgs.org.  Deadlines for upcoming 2016 issues are:  January 15, March 15, and June 15. 

We are looking for an editor for the Reviews section, as well as additional book and product reviewers.  Those interested should contact me at forumeditor@fgs.org to discuss further.

Julie Cahill Tarr

FORUM Managing Editor

Getting Through the Changes in Our Genealogical Community

With Ancestry.com's announcement to discontinue its desktop software, "Family Tree Maker," we thought it would be fun to delve into the FGS FORUM archives and take a look back at what was happening around the Fall of 1990 and get a glimpse of how the genealogy community was then and how it has changed.

In the Fall of 1990, FGS had just wrapped up a successful FGS National Conference, "Windows to the Past," in Salt Lake City, UT. (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 2, Summer 1990)

The expanded Historical and Genealogical Department of the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, had just opened the previous June. (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990)

FGS was raising funds for the NARA Gift Fund which supported the filming of finding aids for the National Archives. At that time, microfiche of street indexes to 39 of the largest U.S. cities had been completed and distributed to all NARA branches; Galveston, Texas, passenger arrival records indexes had been completed and distributed to all NARA branches; and indexes to entries from Canada through several U.S. entry points had been completed and distributed to select NARA branches. (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990)

The Family History Library had just launched their compact disc series of the International Genealogical Index (IGI) and the Family History Library Catalog, and the series was designed specifically for those with no computer experience. While not available for purchase, these were being made available at Family History Centers across the U.S. (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990)

Volunteers were being sought for the Census Overland Emigrant Documents (COED) program to survey and record in a computer database historical information from all known overland journey west documents. (Learn more about the history of this program and what documents it covers.) (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990)

The Midwest Historical and Genealogical Society's dreams had come true when they finally found a place of their own for their library collections of books, microfilm, and maps. The society had bought an old 2-story house in 1985 from the City of Wichita for $1 and remodeled it with over 10,000 volunteer hours. (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990)

Before Ancestry.com was Ancestry.com, it was Ancestry Publishing with a "research club."  (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990) (Learn more about their history.)

Macintosh Computer users could depend on (the) Sunrise (genealogical software) to organize their genealogical data. (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990)

The "future of genealogical research" had arrived via the Automated Genealogical Research Systems (AGRS) from Automated Archives Incorporated promising to save genealogists years of research. (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990)

The ground had been broken the previous May for a new archives building in Salem, Oregon, to be completed in 1991. (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990)

A new chapter for the Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society for New Jersey had been recently organized. (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990)

John Philip Colletta, Ph.D., had just the year before published his incredibly valuable and now iconic book, They Came in Ships. (FORUM, Vol. 02, No. 3, Fall 1990)

Times have certainly changed especially with technology, haven't they?

And the best rule of thumb when it comes to archiving our hard work for future generations is to keep it in several places and not to rely on just one method or technology. That's the best guarantee for its longevity. We have to back up our work that is online and on our computers. Additionally, using our organized data and tech tools, we can create and then archive finished products of our research and share them with family and genealogical societies.

And this is why genealogical societies encourage us to publish our research in their quarterly journals.

This is why genealogical societies encourage us to use our research to apply for their heritage certificate programs (or encourage us to use the goal of obtaining one to motivate us to do our research well).

This is why genealogical societies provide monthly meetings for face-to-face interaction with those who share the same genealogy passion as us. Who knows what we might learn from the person sitting next to us at a meeting?

And this is also why genealogical societies strive to bring us top-notch speakers — via their seminars, conferences, and webinars — to keep us up-to-date on research methodologies as well as new and changing technology.

Genealogical societies empower us to successfully get through the changes in our genealogical community.

Find a FGS Member Society near you and/or in the area your ancestors lived.

Latest FORUM Issue Out: Freedmen's Bank Records, genealogy self-education & more!

While temps are dropping in many places before the holiday season begins in earnest, now is the perfect time to delve into this latest issue of FORUM. Stuffed like a Thanksgiving turkey, this issue is abundant with genealogy advice, how-tos, and tech tips that will leave you thankful you took a little "me time" to gobble it up.

Adding context to your ancestors' stories

"Freedmen's Bureau & Freedmen's Bank Records" can lend context to your ancestors' lives and narrative to their stories. Ted Bainbridge, PhD, takes an in-depth look at these records.

Worry-free goodies

In "Just 37 Words" Judy Russell, JD, CG, CGL, explains there are wonderful goodies you can use without worrying about copyright.

Continuing your genealogy education

Shannon Combs-Bennett gives Next Generation ways to continue your genealogy education in "Keeping Up with the Ancestors: Self-Education.

And that's not all. Take a peek inside:

Table of Contents

3 ...... From the Editors

6 ...... President's Message: Capturing the Energy by D. Joshua Taylor

8 ...... Freedman's Bureau & Freedmen's Bank Records by Ted Bainbridge

18 ...... Build a Digital Library with Scribd by Denise Barrett Olson

24 ...... Join Us for the FGS 2016 Conference by Thomas MacEntee

28 ...... Considerations for Conducting a Family History Writing Contest by Jill Morelli

32 ...... FGS Experiences New Frontiers in Genealogical Cruising to Alaska by Deena Coutant

38 ...... How to Index Genealogical Records at Home by Ted Bainbridge, PhD

41 ...... Spotlight on Member Projects, Surname Project, Webinars, 'Human Scanners' & More by Caroline Pointer

45 ...... Ethics and Standards, Just 37 Words by Judy Russell, JD, CG, CGL

49 ...... Next Generation, Keeping Up With the Ancestors: Self-Education by Shannon Combs-Bennett

52 ...... Records Preservation and Access, New Records Online, Opened Adoption Records & More by Linda McCleary, MLS

How to access FORUM:

Current FGS Member Societies: Sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on FGS FORUM – Latest Issue in the sidebar.) Don't forget to renew your membership in order for your society's leadership to continue to access FORUM and its archives.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, scroll down and click on Vol. 27, No. 2, to read.)

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Not already a subscriber? You can subscribe today to FGS FORUM and start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. No need to be a member of a genealogical society.

Genealogical Societies: If you are not a member society of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership. Read more about how else FGS empowers Member Society Leaders to manage successful societies.

Latest FORUM Issue Out: Pinterest & genealogy, ethics & standards and more!

It's starting to cool down in many places in North America now that fall is almost here. Before the big holiday rush, take some time to put your feet up and relax with this latest issue of FORUM. Jam packed with creative research ideas, tech tips for genealogy, and copyright help (from The Legal Genealogist, no less), you will not want to stop reading it!

Pin it!

Pinterest is a visual bookmarking site with a social media component. Learn how individuals and societies can use it for genealogy in Lisa Lisson's "Pinterest & Genealogy, A Great Combination!"

Apply for it!

Contributor Heather Wilkinson Rojo takes you through the application process for joining "The General Society of Mayflower Descendants."

Get it right!

FORUM welcomes Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL, and her new column Ethics and Standards. In this issue, she explains "Copyright and Ethical Violations Concerning Lectures" for societies, speakers, and everyone attending genealogy presentations.

And that's not all. Take a peek inside:

Table of Contents

3 ......  From the Editors

6 ......  President's Message: 'Above All, Try Something' by D. Joshua Taylor

8 ......  Pinterest and Genealogy, A Great Combination: 4 Unique Methods for Using Pinterest in Your Genealogy Research by Lisa Lisson

14 ...... The General Society of Mayflower Descendants by Heather Wilkinson Rojo

20 ...... 2015 FGS Award Recipients by Caroline M. Pointer

25 ...... Run a Matching Campaign & Help Preserve the Pensions by David E. Rencher, AG, CG, FIGRS, FUGA

28 ...... Spotlight on Member Projects: Preservation Projects, Special Interest Groups, New Websites, & More by Caroline M. Pointer

33 ...... Ethics & Standards: Copyright and Ethical Violations Concerning Lectures by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL

26 ...... Next Generation: Networking Tips by Shannon Combs-Bennett

38 ...... Records Preservation & Access: Connecticut Land Records Available Online, Fires Destroy Historical Records & More by Linda McCleary, MLS

How to access FORUM:

Current FGS Member Societies: Sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on FGS FORUM – Latest Issue in the sidebar.) Don't forget to renew your membership in order for your society's leadership to continue to access FORUM and its archives.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, scroll down and click on Vol. 27, No. 2, to read.)

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Not already a subscriber? You can subscribe today to the FGS FORUM and start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device.

Genealogical Societies: If you are not a member society of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership. Read more about how else FGS empowers Member Society Leaders to manage successful societies.

Share Your Knowledge: Write for FGS FORUM

A message from FGS FORUM managing editor, Julie Cahill Tarr:

As we put the finishing touches on the Summer 2015 issue of FORUM (due out in mid-September), planning is underway for upcoming issues. We are looking for genealogy-related and society-related articles. Below is a list of working titles of topics we’d like to cover in future issues.

Genealogy-Related Articles

• How to Choose the Genealogy Database Program That’s Right for You 
• Cousin Connection: Reaching Out to Distant Relatives 
• ## Tips for Finding Your African American Roots 
• DNA Research Strategies for Adoptees 
• How to Plan an Unforgettable Family Reunion 
• Best Tools for Creating Interactive Family Histories 

Society-Related Articles

• Cloud Computing, Can Your Society Benefit? 
• ## Unique Project Ideas for Your Society 
• Is It Time to Bring Your Bylaws Into the 21st Century? 
• Enhance Your Membership Benefits with Special Interest Groups (SIGs) 
• ## Ways to Engage Your Long-Distance Members 
• Take Advantage of Discounted Technology Products with TechSoup 

If you are interested in writing about any of these topics, or if you have other article ideas, please contact me at forumeditor@fgs.org. FORUM accepts original, unpublished materials. Deadlines for upcoming issues are: September 15, November 15, and January 15.

In addition to articles, we also have a need for book and product reviewers. Those interested in being a reviewer should contact me at forumeditor@fgs.org to discuss further.

Julie Cahill Tarr

FORUM Managing Editor

Latest FORUM Issue Is Out: Planning a Washington, D.C. research trip, meet the Next Generation, & more!

Dive in to FGS FORUM!

Rain or shine, it's time to kick back with this latest issue of FORUM which is bursting with helpful research hints, volunteer opportunities, society project ideas, and technology help for both today's researcher and today's genealogical society. Dive in!

Go Prepared

With so many repositories and libraries located in Washington, D.C., having some kind of research plan and knowing what to expect and what will be expected of you before you go is imperative. Easily get prepared with these insider tips from expert Darcie Hind Posz, CG, in "Planning a Research Trip to Washington, D.C.

Does a genealogical society hold the key to solving your research challenges? 

Or are you looking to find a project you can volunteer for to help give back to the genealogy community? Don't miss new FORUM column, "Spotlight on Member Projects" by FGS Vice-President of Membership Caroline Pointer. The column reveals what activities FGS Member Societies are involved in throughout the genealogy community and features great cemetery, indexing, digitization, and fundraising projects in the works as well as other types of activities. Plus, society leaders will enjoy being inspired to try a new type of project or activity for their own society!

Meet the Next Generation

What do they like? What do they not like? What do they expect? What makes them tick? How do they research? How do they volunteer? In her new column, Shannon Combs-Bennett begins this all-important dialogue that will unveil incredible insight into this huge demographic with takeaways for societies and their leadership which will help them understand how to reach — and even meet — the next generation where they are. Plus, she'll be sharing advice with the next generation of genealogists on how to get involved and to help them along with their research.

And that's not all. Take a peek inside:

Table of Contents

3......From the Editors

6......President's Message

8......Planning a Research Trip to Washington, D.C. by Darcie Hind Posz, CG

15.....10 Reasons to Use Wordpress for Your Society Website by Taneya Koonce

23.....Global Family Reunion, A Success by Randy Whited

26.....A Look Back at the FGS 2015 Conference by Linda McCauley

30.....FGS Regional Conference: New York State Family History Conference

33.....Spotlight on Member Projects: Indexing Projects, New Databases, and More by Caroline Pointer

37.....Next Generation: Who Are the NextGen of Genealogy? by Shannon Combs-Bennett

40.....Records Preservation and Access: Genealogists' Declaration of Rights, Preservation Projects, and More by Linda McCleary, MLS

42.....Reviews

How to access FORUM:

Current FGS Member Societies: Sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, click on FGS FORUM – Latest Issue in the sidebar.) Don't forget to renew your membership in order for your society's leadership to continue to access FORUM and its archives.

Current FGS FORUM subscribers (individuals): sign-in now to start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device. (After signing in, scroll down and click on Vol. 27, No. 1, to read.)

Who can subscribe to FORUM? Anyone. You don't have to be a member of a genealogical society in order to subscribe.

Not already a subscriber? You can subscribe today to the FGS FORUM and start reading immediately or download it to read on your desktop or mobile device.

Genealogical Societies: If you are not a member society of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, become one today and let your society's leadership begin accessing FORUM and its 25+ year archives which is just one of the many benefits of FGS membership. Read more about how else FGS empowers Member Society Leaders to manage successful societies.

FGS Announces New FORUM Editors

The Federation of Genealogical Societies is pleased to announce that Julie Tarr is the new Managing Editor and Jennifer Alford is the new Associate Editor of the FGS FORUM. FORUM is the FGS quarterly interactive electronic magazine providing current information essential to the informed genealogist.

D. Joshua Taylor, President of the Federation of Genealogical Societies said, "FORUM has such a rich legacy within the family history community, and we are delighted to welcome Julie and Jennifer as its new leadership team. As an enhanced digital publication, FORUM will continue to serve as an important voice and resource for genealogists throughout the globe."

Julie Tarr has been writing and editing professionally for over 15 years. In 2011, she began providing professional genealogical services, which include writing, editing, and researching. In addition to providing these services to individuals, much of her time is dedicated to educating others through her writing. Projects include the publication of four Legacy QuickGuides™, course development for the National Institute of Genealogical Studies, and several articles for various genealogical publications. Julie also maintains a genealogy blog, which was implemented in 2008. She is also managing editor for the Illinois State Genealogical Society Quarterly and Pegasus: Journal of the Dallas Genealogical Society.

Commenting on her new role, Julie Tarr said, "In the world of genealogy, education is something I truly believe in and I am always looking for opportunities to support that passion. FORUM is certainly an educational tool that provides a wide range of articles on topics that keep societies and genealogists alike informed and knowledgeable, essentially advancing the genealogy community. I am thrilled to be a part of the FORUM team and look forward to keeping the educational legacy alive by providing content that keeps readers engaged and excited about genealogy."

Jennifer Alford, PE, PTOE is a Traffic Engineer by day and a genealogy professional and lecturer by night. Her strong organizational skills and use of logic and methodology as an engineer are highly beneficial to genealogy research. Her research specialties include Jewish resources and the Midwest. Her business, Jenealogy, creates engaging family history treasures to enhance the bond between generations. Her artistic pursuits are combined to develop beautiful personalized artwork for her clients. As a partner with The In-Depth Genealogist she has taken the role of Publisher of The In-Depth Genealogist’s magazine, Going In-Depth, and several books written by their contributing writers. 

"I am honored to be selected as Associate Editor for FORUM and I look forward to working with the FGS board, Linda McCauley, and Julie Cahill Tarr," says Jennifer Alford. As a team, we hope to bring an exciting new vision for the magazine and further develop it into an educational and interactive resource for societies and individuals."

Julie and Jennifer can be reached at forumeditor@fgs.org.

FGS Seeks Editors for Digital Publication

The Federation of Genealogical Societies is seeking proposals for one-year contracts for a Managing Editor and an Associate Editor of a quarterly digital publication covering the calendar year of 2015 to begin immediately. With these requests for proposals, FGS wishes to revamp FGS FORUM magazine to a fully interactive digital publication.

The managing editor should have experience as an editor of a publication. The associate editor should have editorial and layout experience with a publication. Successful proposals must demonstrate both the prospective editor's qualifications and a plan and price for fulfilling the defined responsibilities.

View the full Request for Proposal for each position for responsibilities, requirements, and the submission process. 

Direct any questions to publications@fgs.org. The deadline for proposals is March 31, 2015.