Filter by Category:  
Timeframe:

Search:   For:    Search  Clear Search
Listings Per Page: 

Records: 1 to 41 of 41


IRISH SIG - Virtual
Tuesday, February 10
IRISH SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
It’s estimated that about 10% of the US Population has Irish ancestry…that’s about 31 million people!  Ireland is not the easiest place to research due to political strife as well as the destruction of the Public Records Office in 1922.  However, research is possible if you know the place where your ancestors lived and the timeframe of their emigration.  In the Irish SIG we'll answer basic questions about how to do Irish research and what records are available to search both online and off. Join us for the first monthly Irish SIG meeting led by Donna Moughty. Donna has worked as a professional genealogist and has been conducting Irish research for over 30 years. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request IRISH SIG Link.
 


GERMAN  SIG - Virtual
Wednesday, February 11
GERMAN SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 11:30 am
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Do you have German ancestors or you are interested in this part of Europe, or were your ancestors located in some of the popular German settlements in the USA? Maybe you should join our German Special Interest Group (SIG) and converse with other researchers with the same interests.  The meeting format is very flexible and the discussions go where the group takes it. Meetings are held the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM via ZOOM.  Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request German SIG Link.


Classes for Beginners
Wednesday, February 11
Classes for Beginners  (Workshops/Seminars)
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Manatee Central Library Auditorium, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd West, Bradenton
In-person only
 
Join us for either or both! Explore your roots and bring your ancestors' stories to life.
 
Beginning Genealogy - February 11th
Discover how to begin your family research journey—where to look, what to record, and how to stay organized. Learn about obituaries, cemeteries, family interviews, and key online tools.
 
Introduction to DNA for Genealogy - February 18th
See how DNA can confirm relationships and reveal new ancestors. Learn about testing types, inheritance basics, and which companies to use.


DNA SIG - Virtual
Tuesday, February 17
DNA SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Join us for a dialogue on the use of DNA in your genealogical research.  News, sharing and help!  The DNA SIG is led by Peggy Jude. Peggy is a member of the board of the Manatee Genealogical Society and is a professional genealogist with a specialty in genetic genealogy. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Put in the Subject line: Request DNA SIG Link.


Mid-Atlantic Pre-Civil War
Wednesday, February 18
Mid-Atlantic Pre-Civil War  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
 
Do you have ancestors who arrived in the US before the Civil War? Did they begin their US experience in the Mid-Atlantic states and then move westward? Then this SIG is for you! Sometimes the key to finding your ancestor’s home across the ocean is researching the places they lived before they migrated west. This was often in Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, or the surrounding states. This SIG is designed to help people with just that experience.
 
The focus will be on those who arrived in the US before the Civil War and back to Colonial times. Migration routes, record sources, and more will be discussed.
 
All sessions will begin at 10:00 a.m. EST on the 3rd Wednesday of each month.  Nancy Ryburn will lead the discussion with members sharing research suggestions and support.
 
Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line:  Request Mid-Atlantic SIG Link.


Classes for Beginners
Wednesday, February 18
Classes for Beginners  (Workshops/Seminars)
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Manatee Central Library Auditorium, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd West, Bradenton
In-person only
 
Join us for either or both!  Explore your roots and bring your ancestors' stories to life.
 
Beginning Genealogy - February 11th
Discover how to begin your family research journey - where to look, what to record, and how to stay organized.  Learn about obituaries, cemeteries, family interviews, and key online tools.
 
Introduction to DNA for Genealogy - February 18th
See how DNA can confirm relationships and reveal new ancestors.  Learn about testing types, inheritance basics, and which companies to use.



The Hidden Web: Digging Deeper
Tuesday, March 3
The Hidden Web: Digging Deeper  (Monthly Meetings)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Hybrid Meeting (Virtual and in-person at Manatee Central Library)
When Google and traditional search engines don’t return useful information, don’t stop there. We will explore resources that are invisible to Google and hidden deep within web sites and proprietary databases.  The “hidden web” lies buried within the collections for commercial web sites, libraries, archives, and museums.  We will also talk about the importance of indexes that deep-link into web sites online, thus uncovering hidden gems of information that may not be found easily through a search engine query.
 
Cyndi Ingle, a genealogist for more than 45 years, will present via Zoom for this meeting.  She is the creator and innovator behind the award-winning and globally recognized CyndisList.com. Cyndi is an expert in using technology for genealogy, research in the United States and bringing together traditional methodology with organization, computers, software, and the Internet.  She is an internationally known guest lecturer, and she has authored numerous articles, two magazine columns, and three books. Cyndi is the Executive Director for the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research.
 
Following the presentation, stay online or in-person for our “Members Helping Members” session.
 
Open to the Public – Advance Registration Required To attend via Zoom, non-members must register at least one day in advance by emailing: info@mgsfl.org, requesting the Zoom link to the March Meeting. To attend in-person, the meeting is held at the Manatee Central Library Auditorium, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd West, Bradenton, Florida.
 
The Zoom meeting will begin promptly at 10:00 AM EST.


POLISH SIG - Virtual
Wednesday, March 4
POLISH SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Researching in a foreign country can be a little intimidating, especially if you are researching alone.  If your ancestors are from Poland or Eastern Europe, this group may be for you.  Join us for a monthly discussion and research session designed to encourage and inspire everyone.  The meeting format is very flexible and the discussions go where the group takes it. Meetings are usually held the 1st Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM via ZOOM.  Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request POLISH SIG Link.


TECHNOLOGY  SIG - Virtual
Monday, March 9
TECHNOLOGY SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
The TECHNOLOGY SIG helps users of all abilities to effectively use technology in support of Family History research. We will also have breakout groups for the users of Family History software.  Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of the month at 2:00 pm. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org Please put in your email Subject line: Request Technology SIG Link.


IRISH SIG - Virtual
Tuesday, March 10
IRISH SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
It’s estimated that about 10% of the US Population has Irish ancestry…that’s about 31 million people!  Ireland is not the easiest place to research due to political strife as well as the destruction of the Public Records Office in 1922.  However, research is possible if you know the place where your ancestors lived and the timeframe of their emigration.  In the Irish SIG we'll answer basic questions about how to do Irish research and what records are available to search both online and off. Join us for the first monthly Irish SIG meeting led by Donna Moughty. Donna has worked as a professional genealogist and has been conducting Irish research for over 30 years. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request IRISH SIG Link.
 


GERMAN  SIG - Virtual
Wednesday, March 11
GERMAN SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 11:30 am
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Do you have German ancestors or you are interested in this part of Europe, or were your ancestors located in some of the popular German settlements in the USA? Maybe you should join our German Special Interest Group (SIG) and converse with other researchers with the same interests.  The meeting format is very flexible and the discussions go where the group takes it. Meetings are held the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM via ZOOM.  Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request German SIG Link.


Saturday, March 14
"The Funny Side of Genealogy"  (Workshops/Seminars)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Manatee Central Library Auditorium, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd West, Bradenton
 
Daniel Horowitz of MyHeritage
 
Laugh a little with Daniel at this in-person only event as he takes a refreshing look at genealogists and their sometimes-bizarre activities from an outsider’s perspective. You’ll also learn about some great resources and techniques along the way — and finally understand why everyone looks at you funny when you talk about your research. 

Daniel is a Genealogy Expert at MyHeritage, providing key contributions liaising with genealogy societies, bloggers and media, as well as lecturing, and attending conferences around the world. Dedicated to Genealogy since 1986, he was the teacher and the study guide editor of the family history project “Searching for My Roots” in Venezuela for 15 years. Daniel is involved in several crowdsource digitization and transcription projects and holds a board level position at the Israel Genealogy Research Association (IGRA).
 
Other presentations by Daniel during March:  Visit "Regional Events" under the Calendar of Events on our website - click here:  Manatee Genealogical Society - Regional Events
 
 


DNA SIG - Virtual
Tuesday, March 17
DNA SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Join us for a dialogue on the use of DNA in your genealogical research.  News, sharing and help!  The DNA SIG is led by Peggy Jude. Peggy is a member of the board of the Manatee Genealogical Society and is a professional genealogist with a specialty in genetic genealogy. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Put in the Subject line: Request DNA SIG Link.


Mid-Atlantic Pre-Civil War
Wednesday, March 18
Mid-Atlantic Pre-Civil War  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
 
Do you have ancestors who arrived in the US before the Civil War? Did they begin their US experience in the Mid-Atlantic states and then move westward? Then this SIG is for you! Sometimes the key to finding your ancestor’s home across the ocean is researching the places they lived before they migrated west. This was often in Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, or the surrounding states. This SIG is designed to help people with just that experience.
 
The focus will be on those who arrived in the US before the Civil War and back to Colonial times. Migration routes, record sources, and more will be discussed.
 
All sessions will begin at 10:00 a.m. EST on the 3rd Wednesday of each month.  Nancy Ryburn will lead the discussion with members sharing research suggestions and support.
 
Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line:  Request Mid-Atlantic SIG Link.



POLISH SIG - Virtual
Wednesday, April 1
POLISH SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Researching in a foreign country can be a little intimidating, especially if you are researching alone.  If your ancestors are from Poland or Eastern Europe, this group may be for you.  Join us for a monthly discussion and research session designed to encourage and inspire everyone.  The meeting format is very flexible and the discussions go where the group takes it. Meetings are usually held the 1st Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM via ZOOM.  Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request POLISH SIG Link.


Tuesday, April 7
"Coming to America"  (Monthly Meetings)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Hybrid Meeting
Tuesday, April 7, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST
Hybrid Meeting – Via Zoom and in-person at Manatee Central Library
 
Presented by Peggy Jude
This lecture traces the major waves of immigration to America, focusing on who came, when they arrived, and the key reasons behind each movement. Attendees will gain insight into the push and pull factors that drove groups from all over the world to the US—from early colonial settlers and enslaved Africans to the diverse arrivals of the modern era. Attendees seeking to understand or celebrate the evolving American story will find this program rich with context for both family history research and broader historical reflection.
 
About the Speaker:
 
Peggy Jude is a nationally-known speaker, educator, and researcher for over 40 years, teaching in 5 areas: DNA, Genealogical Technology, Preserving Family History and Heirlooms, Methods and Records, and Swedish Genealogy.  She is a co-course coordinator for Foundations in DNA course at the Institute for Genealogical and Historical Research (IGHR), a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, the Genealogical Speakers Guild, a graduate of ProGen, and multiple advanced genealogical institutes.
 
Following the presentation will be our “Members Helping Members” session.
 
Open to the Public – Advance Registration Required for Zoom:
To attend via Zoom, non-members must register at least one day in advance by emailing: info@mgsfl.org, requesting the Zoom link to the February Meeting.
 
To attend in-person, the meeting is held at the Manatee Central Library Auditorium, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd West, Bradenton, Florida.
 
The Zoom meeting will begin promptly at 10:00 AM EST.
 
Questions?
Contact us at: info@mgsfl.org


GERMAN  SIG - Virtual
Wednesday, April 8
GERMAN SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 11:30 am
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Do you have German ancestors or you are interested in this part of Europe, or were your ancestors located in some of the popular German settlements in the USA? Maybe you should join our German Special Interest Group (SIG) and converse with other researchers with the same interests.  The meeting format is very flexible and the discussions go where the group takes it. Meetings are held the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM via ZOOM.  Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request German SIG Link.


TECHNOLOGY  SIG - Virtual
Monday, April 13
TECHNOLOGY SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
The TECHNOLOGY SIG helps users of all abilities to effectively use technology in support of Family History research. We will also have breakout groups for the users of Family History software.  Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of the month at 2:00 pm. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org Please put in your email Subject line: Request Technology SIG Link.


IRISH SIG - Virtual
Tuesday, April 14
IRISH SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
It’s estimated that about 10% of the US Population has Irish ancestry…that’s about 31 million people!  Ireland is not the easiest place to research due to political strife as well as the destruction of the Public Records Office in 1922.  However, research is possible if you know the place where your ancestors lived and the timeframe of their emigration.  In the Irish SIG we'll answer basic questions about how to do Irish research and what records are available to search both online and off. Join us for the first monthly Irish SIG meeting led by Donna Moughty. Donna has worked as a professional genealogist and has been conducting Irish research for over 30 years. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request IRISH SIG Link.
 


Mid-Atlantic Pre-Civil War
Wednesday, April 15
Mid-Atlantic Pre-Civil War  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
 
Do you have ancestors who arrived in the US before the Civil War? Did they begin their US experience in the Mid-Atlantic states and then move westward? Then this SIG is for you! Sometimes the key to finding your ancestor’s home across the ocean is researching the places they lived before they migrated west. This was often in Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, or the surrounding states. This SIG is designed to help people with just that experience.
 
The focus will be on those who arrived in the US before the Civil War and back to Colonial times. Migration routes, record sources, and more will be discussed.
 
All sessions will begin at 10:00 a.m. EST on the 3rd Wednesday of each month.  Nancy Ryburn will lead the discussion with members sharing research suggestions and support.
 
Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line:  Request Mid-Atlantic SIG Link.


DNA SIG - Virtual
Tuesday, April 21
DNA SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Join us for a dialogue on the use of DNA in your genealogical research.  News, sharing and help!  The DNA SIG is led by Peggy Jude. Peggy is a member of the board of the Manatee Genealogical Society and is a professional genealogist with a specialty in genetic genealogy. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Put in the Subject line: Request DNA SIG Link.



Western Migration
Tuesday, May 5
Western Migration"  (Monthly Meetings)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Hybrid Meeting
 
Migration is an improtant concept in genealogical research.  While our ancestors had fewer options for transportation than exist today, It was a common occurrence for many to move multiple times in their lifetime, for numerous reasons.  While there were exceptions, most would eventually begin the process of moving westward into the interior of America.  Early on in U.S. history, migration was primarily westward and southward.  Ultimately, most of those who migrated southward would begin going out west.
 
About the Speaker:
Bryan is the Adult Reference, Genealogy, and Literacy Librarian for Lee County Library System, Fort Myers Regional Library, Florida, a position he has held since 1990.  He holds a B.A. (Political Science) and MLS (Library/Information Science) degrees from Florida State University.
 
Following the presentation, stay online for our “Members Helping Members” session.
 
Open to the Public – Advance Registration Required for Zoom:
To attend via Zoom, non-members must register at least one day in advance by emailing: info@mgsfl.org, requesting the Zoom link to the February Meeting.
 
To attend in-person, the meeting is being held at the Manatee Central Library Auditorium, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd West, Bradenton, Florida.
 
The Zoom meeting will begin promptly at 10:00 AM EST.
 
Questions?
Contact us at: info@mgsfl.org


POLISH SIG - Virtual
Wednesday, May 6
POLISH SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Researching in a foreign country can be a little intimidating, especially if you are researching alone.  If your ancestors are from Poland or Eastern Europe, this group may be for you.  Join us for a monthly discussion and research session designed to encourage and inspire everyone.  The meeting format is very flexible and the discussions go where the group takes it. Meetings are usually held the 1st Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM via ZOOM.  Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request POLISH SIG Link.


TECHNOLOGY  SIG - Virtual
Monday, May 11
TECHNOLOGY SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
The TECHNOLOGY SIG helps users of all abilities to effectively use technology in support of Family History research. We will also have breakout groups for the users of Family History software.  Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of the month at 2:00 pm. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org Please put in your email Subject line: Request Technology SIG Link.


IRISH SIG - Virtual
Tuesday, May 12
IRISH SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
It’s estimated that about 10% of the US Population has Irish ancestry…that’s about 31 million people!  Ireland is not the easiest place to research due to political strife as well as the destruction of the Public Records Office in 1922.  However, research is possible if you know the place where your ancestors lived and the timeframe of their emigration.  In the Irish SIG we'll answer basic questions about how to do Irish research and what records are available to search both online and off. Join us for the first monthly Irish SIG meeting led by Donna Moughty. Donna has worked as a professional genealogist and has been conducting Irish research for over 30 years. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request IRISH SIG Link.
 


GERMAN  SIG - Virtual
Wednesday, May 13
GERMAN SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 11:30 am
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Do you have German ancestors or you are interested in this part of Europe, or were your ancestors located in some of the popular German settlements in the USA? Maybe you should join our German Special Interest Group (SIG) and converse with other researchers with the same interests.  The meeting format is very flexible and the discussions go where the group takes it. Meetings are held the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM via ZOOM.  Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request German SIG Link.


DNA SIG - Virtual
Tuesday, May 19
DNA SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Join us for a dialogue on the use of DNA in your genealogical research.  News, sharing and help!  The DNA SIG is led by Peggy Jude. Peggy is a member of the board of the Manatee Genealogical Society and is a professional genealogist with a specialty in genetic genealogy. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Put in the Subject line: Request DNA SIG Link.


Mid-Atlantic Pre-Civil War
Wednesday, May 20
Mid-Atlantic Pre-Civil War  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
 
Do you have ancestors who arrived in the US before the Civil War? Did they begin their US experience in the Mid-Atlantic states and then move westward? Then this SIG is for you! Sometimes the key to finding your ancestor’s home across the ocean is researching the places they lived before they migrated west. This was often in Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, or the surrounding states. This SIG is designed to help people with just that experience.
 
The focus will be on those who arrived in the US before the Civil War and back to Colonial times. Migration routes, record sources, and more will be discussed.
 
All sessions will begin at 10:00 a.m. EST on the 3rd Wednesday of each month.  Nancy Ryburn will lead the discussion with members sharing research suggestions and support.
 
Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line:  Request Mid-Atlantic SIG Link.



Tuesday, June 2
"Finding Your Family with DNA Testing"  (Monthly Meetings)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Virtual - Zoom Only
Learn how adoptees and others find biological parents and siblings through DNA testing. Review the case that started it all and see today’s recommended strategies. View examples of surprise discoveries and see the tools used to identify relationships.
 
Richard Hill was the first adoptee to identify his birth family through genetic genealogy DNA tests, sharing the story of his decades-long search in an award-winning book, “Finding Family: My Search for Roots and the Secrets in My DNA.” His Kindle Short Book, “Guide to DNA Testing,” gives readers just enough information to choose the proper DNA tests for their purposes. He has founded two websites on DNA testing, most recently DNAFavorites.com. He is a member of the Genealogical Speakers Guild and the International Society of Genetic Genealogy.
 
Following the presentation, stay online for our “Members Helping Members” session.
 
Open to the Public – Advance Registration Required for Zoom:
To attend via Zoom, non-members must register at least one day in advance by emailing: info@mgsfl.org, requesting the Zoom link to the June Meeting.
 
The Zoom meeting will begin promptly at 10:00 AM EST.


POLISH SIG - Virtual
Wednesday, June 3
POLISH SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Researching in a foreign country can be a little intimidating, especially if you are researching alone.  If your ancestors are from Poland or Eastern Europe, this group may be for you.  Join us for a monthly discussion and research session designed to encourage and inspire everyone.  The meeting format is very flexible and the discussions go where the group takes it. Meetings are usually held the 1st Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM via ZOOM.  Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request POLISH SIG Link.


TECHNOLOGY  SIG - Virtual
Monday, June 8
TECHNOLOGY SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
The TECHNOLOGY SIG helps users of all abilities to effectively use technology in support of Family History research. We will also have breakout groups for the users of Family History software.  Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of the month at 2:00 pm. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org Please put in your email Subject line: Request Technology SIG Link.


IRISH SIG - Virtual
Tuesday, June 9
IRISH SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
It’s estimated that about 10% of the US Population has Irish ancestry…that’s about 31 million people!  Ireland is not the easiest place to research due to political strife as well as the destruction of the Public Records Office in 1922.  However, research is possible if you know the place where your ancestors lived and the timeframe of their emigration.  In the Irish SIG we'll answer basic questions about how to do Irish research and what records are available to search both online and off. Join us for the first monthly Irish SIG meeting led by Donna Moughty. Donna has worked as a professional genealogist and has been conducting Irish research for over 30 years. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request IRISH SIG Link.
 


GERMAN  SIG - Virtual
Wednesday, June 10
GERMAN SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 11:30 am
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Do you have German ancestors or you are interested in this part of Europe, or were your ancestors located in some of the popular German settlements in the USA? Maybe you should join our German Special Interest Group (SIG) and converse with other researchers with the same interests.  The meeting format is very flexible and the discussions go where the group takes it. Meetings are held the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM via ZOOM.  Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line: Request German SIG Link.


DNA SIG - Virtual
Tuesday, June 16
DNA SIG - Virtual  (SIGs)
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
Join us for a dialogue on the use of DNA in your genealogical research.  News, sharing and help!  The DNA SIG is led by Peggy Jude. Peggy is a member of the board of the Manatee Genealogical Society and is a professional genealogist with a specialty in genetic genealogy. Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Put in the Subject line: Request DNA SIG Link.


Mid-Atlantic Pre-Civil War
Wednesday, June 17
Mid-Atlantic Pre-Civil War  (SIGs)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
VIRTUAL MEETING (Meeting Time is EST)
 
Do you have ancestors who arrived in the US before the Civil War? Did they begin their US experience in the Mid-Atlantic states and then move westward? Then this SIG is for you! Sometimes the key to finding your ancestor’s home across the ocean is researching the places they lived before they migrated west. This was often in Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, or the surrounding states. This SIG is designed to help people with just that experience.
 
The focus will be on those who arrived in the US before the Civil War and back to Colonial times. Migration routes, record sources, and more will be discussed.
 
All sessions will begin at 10:00 a.m. EST on the 3rd Wednesday of each month.  Nancy Ryburn will lead the discussion with members sharing research suggestions and support.
 
Details for joining the Virtual Meeting will be provided prior to the meeting to MGS members via email. Non-members can request attendance information by emailing us at info@mgsfl.org . Please put in your email Subject line:  Request Mid-Atlantic SIG Link.



Tuesday, July 7
"Your Revolutionary War Ancestor: A Case Study"  (Monthly Meetings)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Virtual Seminar
A Revolutionary War ancestor can be a goldmine of information if you know where to look. This lecture aims to examine types of service, compiled military service records, pension applications, settled accounts, and where other documents can be found using a step-by-step methodology in a case study.
 
Craig Roberts Scott, MA, CG, FUGA is the President and CEO of Heritage Books, Inc. A professional genealogical and historical researcher for more than forty years, he specializes in records of the National Archives, especially those that relate to the military. He has coordinated the Military tracks at IGHR, SLIG, and GRIP in years past. He is currently the Coordinator of the SLIG Consultation Track, helping students solve their brick wall problems.
 
Following the presentation, stay online for our “Members Helping Members” session.
 
Open to the Public – Advance Registration Required
To attend, non-members must register at least one day in advance by emailing: info@mgsfl.org

 
The Zoom meeting will begin promptly at 10:00 AM EST.
 
Handouts and Recordings:
If available, the presentation handout will be posted before the meeting on the Members Only section of our website:
https://mgsfl.org/members.php → Meeting Handouts
A video recording may also be posted after the event for members, depending on the speaker’s agreement. Access may be time-limited (e.g., 2 weeks or 30 days).
 
Questions?
Contact us at: info@mgsfl.org




Tuesday, August 4
"Our Quaker Ancestors: Their History and the Records They Left"  (Monthly Meetings)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Zoom Only
Quakers were among the earliest settlers in North America and as they moved west, they were often the earliest settlers in newly opened territory.  Quakers were amazing record-keepers.  Not only did they record births, marriages, and deaths, they kept extensive records on those who came into their local meetings and those who left.  Transgressions by members of the community were publicly discussed and recorded, and as they came to believe that slavery was evil their records on Quakers who kept slaves became extensive.  Learn about the history of these pioneering Americans and how to find the rich records they left behind.
 
👩‍🏫 About the Speaker:
Annette Burke Lyttle, CG®, owns Heritage Detective, LLC, providing professional genealogical services in research, education, and writing. She speaks on a variety of genealogical topics at the international, national, state, and local levels and loves helping people uncover and share their family stories. Annette is a course coordinator for the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy and the British Institute. She is a published writer whose research interests include Quaker ancestors and ancestral migrations in the US. She is past president of the Association of Professional Genealogists and editor of The Florida Genealogist.
 
🤝 After the Program:
Stay online for our “Members Helping Members” session.
📝 Registration:
Open to the public. Advance registration required.
Non-members must register at least one day in advance by emailing info@mgsfl.org.
 



Tuesday, September 1
"Separating Multiple Generations of Men with the Same Name"  (Monthly Meetings)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Virtual Seminar - Zoom Only
 
When many descendants of the original settler inherit his name, diagramming and careful analysis of land, tax, and probate records can reconstruct families.

🎤 About the Speaker:
Diana Elder AGⓇ, AGL is a professional genealogist accredited in the Gulf South region and serves on the advisory board for The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen). She is the author of Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide and co-author of Research Like a Pro with DNA.
 
With her daughter Nicole, Diana has built a comprehensive educational platform teaching through study groups, an interactive eCourse, and the Research Like a Pro Genealogy Podcast. She shares research strategies on Family Locket (familylocket.com), making professional-level techniques accessible to genealogists worldwide.

🤝 Stay After the Program!
Following the presentation, remain online for our “Members Helping Members” session — a great opportunity to ask questions, share research challenges, and learn from fellow members.

🎟 Registration Information:
Open to the Public — Advance Registration Required
Non-members must register at least one day in advance by emailing:
📧 info@mgsfl.org

📂 Handouts & Recording:
 
If available, the presentation handout will be posted before the meeting in the Members Only section of our website.
A video recording may also be posted afterward for members, depending on the speaker’s agreement. Access may be time-limited.

❓ Questions?
Contact us at: info@mgsfl.org
We hope you’ll join us for this practical and problem-solving session!
 



Tuesday, October 6
"Strategies for Using Pre-1850 Census Schedules"  (Monthly Meetings)
10:00 am to 12:30 pm
Hybrid Meeting (Virtual and in-person at Manatee Central Library)
 
Confused by the tick marks on the 1790 to 1840 U.S. census population schedules? These records are valuable for genealogists but require a different approach than other census records. Learn strategies for using the pre-1850 census records to locate and learn more about your ancestors.

🎤 About the Speaker:
Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA, is the president of the Board for Certification of Genealogists. She is passionate about genealogy education and enjoys developing and coordinating courses at the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy and the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research. Angela is a popular speaker at various genealogy conferences and institutes.
 
Previously, Angela held roles including Education Director of the National Genealogical Society and curriculum designer and administrator of the ProGen Study Program. Angela is a former chapter president of the Association of Professional Genealogists. Her articles have appeared in UGA’s Crossroads magazine, the APG Quarterly, and the NGS Magazine.

🤝 Stay After the Program!
Following the presentation, stay online for our “Members Helping Members” session — a valuable time to ask questions, collaborate, and share research strategies.

🎟 Registration Information:
Open to the Public — Advance Registration Required
Non-members must register at least one day in advance by emailing:
📧 info@mgsfl.org

📂 Handouts & Recording:
 
If available, the presentation handout will be posted before the meeting in the Members Only section of our website. A video recording may also be posted afterward for our members, depending on the speaker’s agreement. Access may be time limited.

❓ Questions?
Contact us at: info@mgsfl.org
 
We hope you’ll join us for this practical and enlightening session!



Exciting topic to be determined!
Tuesday, November 3
Exciting topic to be determined!  (Monthly Meetings)
10:00 am to 12:30 pm
Hybrid Meeting (Virtual and in-person at Manatee Central Library)
 
Join us for our upcoming Monthly Membership Program featuring renowned genealogist Peggy Jude. While the topic will be announced soon, members can look forward to another relevant, informative presentation in the tradition of her past highly regarded programs. Mark your calendar—this is sure to be a session you won’t want to miss.
 
Peggy Jude is a nationally-known speaker, educator, and researcher for over 40 years, teaching in 5 areas: DNA, Genealogical Technology, Preserving Family History and Heirlooms, Methods and Records, and Swedish Genealogy.  She is a co-course coordinator for Foundations in DNA course at the Institute for Genealogical and Historical Research (IGHR), a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, the Genealogical Speakers Guild, a graduate of ProGen, and multiple advanced genealogical institutes.



Tuesday, December 1
"Sharing Ancestor Stories: Writing Brief Biographical Sketches"  (Monthly Meetings)
10:00 am to 12:30 pm
Hybrid Meeting (Virtual and in-person at Manatee Central Library)
✍️ Bring Your Ancestors’ Stories to Life! ✍️
Tuesday, December 1, 2026
🕙 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM EST
🏛 Hybrid Event — Zoom and In-Person
Manatee Central Public Library Auditorium
1301 Barcarrota Blvd West, Bradenton, Florida

🔍 Program Title:
"Sharing Ancestor Stories: Writing Brief Biographical Sketches"
Presented by Karen A. Fortin
We all have interesting relatives and ancestors whose lives tell the stories of our family’s past. This presentation takes a step-by-step approach to guide you through the process of planning and writing these stories in brief, informal biographical sketches that you can share with family and friends.

🎤 About the Speaker:
Karen A. Fortin has degrees in History and Library and Information Science and a passion for research. She worked in a public library in Florida for 30 years before switching to genealogical lecturing in 2016. She is a member of various genealogical societies and loves to help people explore their family history so that they can better understand their ancestors and the world in which they lived.

🤝 Stay After the Program!
Following the presentation, stay online for our “Members Helping Members” session — a valuable time to ask questions, collaborate, and share research strategies.

🎟 Registration Information:
Open to the Public — Advance Registration Required
Non-members must register at least one day in advance by emailing:
📧 info@mgsfl.org

📂 Handouts & Recording:
 
If available, the presentation handout will be posted before the meeting in the Members Only section of our website. A video recording may also be posted after the event for our members, depending on the speaker’s agreement. Access may be time-limited.

❓ Questions?
Contact us at: info@mgsfl.org
We hope you’ll join us for this inspiring and creative session!