Branches at Ontario Ancestors are hosting six virtual presentations this week. All are open to the public, and with the exception of one, all are free.
The following times are in Eastern time.
Monday, November 18, 7:00 p.m. — Oxford County Branch
Sir Frederick Banting: The Man You Thought You Knew by Grant Maltman
Historians and scientists have deemed the discovery of insulin to be “the most significant event in the history of Canadian medical science.” Historians and authors have well documented the difference Sir Frederick Banting made with his involvement in the discovery of insulin. What has not been as effectively communicated are his many other contributions throughout the course of his lifetime. There was far more to this distinguished Canadian’s career than the often-simplified events of the insulin period. Banting’s interest in art, his military service in both world wars, and support for medical research in Canada will be discussed. Register to watch online.
Monday, November 18, 7:00 p.m. —- Sudbury District Branch
The Second World War: Researching the Canadians Who Served by Ken McKinlay
This presentation delves into the wealth of records available for researching Canadians who served during the Second World War. We’ll explore both the poignant records of those who gave their lives in service to Canada and the rich archival resources that reveal the stories of those who survived. Whether your interest lies in uncovering military service details, personal narratives, or broader historical insights, this session hopefully provides the tools and guidance to deepen your understanding of those who served Canada. Register to watch online.
Wednesday, November 20, 7:00 p.m. — Thunder Bay and District Branch
Debt, Drunk & Disordely, Vagrancy, Prostitution, Theft, Assault, Insanity: Are You Sure Your Ancestors Were Never In Jail? by Janice Nickerson
No one wants a criminal at the dinner table, but finding one in your family tree can add pizzazz to an otherwise boring list of names and dates. Did you know that 19th-century jails were full of people who just couldn’t pay their debts, got caught drinking in public, or got into one too many fights? Irish people were over-represented and women were most often incarcerated for “moral” offences. This lecture will introduce you to the wonder of Ontario jail records, and what they can tell you about your ancestors. Register to watch online.
Thursday, November 21, 12:30 p.m. — Sudbury District Branch
MyHeritage: New Features and a Canada Focus by Daniel Horowitz
Thursday, November 21, 7:00 p.m. — Hamilton Branch
The Wedge Family’s Truth and Lore by Beth Adams
While helping a cousin uncover their family history through DNA results, “stories” of connection to “the mountain” in Hamilton were discovered. This presentation will review the process that led to the discovery of the family they never knew, as well as investigating the very surprising possibility of Indigenous and UEL heritage. These “stories” have led to research in an effort to prove or disprove the Indigenous connections in an ethical and sensitive manner. Successful and unsuccessful sources will be discussed. As with most of our family trees, this one is a “work in progress” and we may find out more by November! This webinar is free to all society members. Non-members can purchase access to the live presentation and the recording for two weeks for $10. Register to watch online.
Sunday, November 24, 2:00 p.m. — Halton-Peel Branch
Second World War: Researching the Canadians Who Served by Ken McKinlay
This presentation delves into the wealth of records available for researching Canadians who served during the Second World War. Whether your interest lies in uncovering military service details, person narratives, or broader historical insights, this session, hopefully, provides the tools and guidance to deepen your understanding of those who served Canada in this terrible war. Register to watch online.
