Ontario Ancestors offers four virtual presentations, starting tonight through to Saturday morning. They are free and open to the public.
The following times are in Eastern time.
Tuesday, May 13, 1:00 p.m. — Ireland SIG
Researching Irish Farming History by William Roulston
The aim of this talk is to help those with roots in Ireland find out more about their farming ancestors through identifying documentary and printed sources of relevance. The talk will present information on relevant collections in archives and libraries across Ireland. Much attention will be focused on records relating to the management of landed estates and what these can tell us about tenant-farmers in Ireland. Register to watch online.
Tuesday, May 13, 7:30 p.m. — Essex County and Lambton County Branches
Just Across the Border by Kathryn Lake Hogan
Thousands of people cross the international border between Canada and the United States every day. Our ancestors crossed those borders as well. Discover what can be found in Canada-USA border entry records and why every family historian should be researching them. Register to watch online.
Thursday, May 15, 1:00 p.m. — Kawartha Branch
Manvers Township Historical Society by Teresa Jordan
Teresa Jordan will give us an overview of the history of Manvers Township Historical Society and the current status of the organization, the hours of operation of their Research Centre and the various projects that they currently have underway. Come join us to discover what the society has to offer to assist with your genealogy and historical research in Manvers Township, City of Kawartha Lakes (formerly known as Victoria County). Register at the Peterborough Public Library to watch online.
Saturday, May 17, 10:00 a.m. — Kingston Branch
Héritage-Canadiana by Glenn Wright
Héritage-Canadiana is an extraordinary website with extensive digital collections of archival records, books, newspapers, serials, maps and government publications. Glenn’s presentation will throw light on the resources and how to use them effectively in our family history and genealogical research.
Following this presentation, Derrick Bouchard, Branch Cemeteries Committee Coordinator, will shares the story behind one of the branch’s most significant 50th-anniversary projects. In 2023, dedicated volunteers from the Cemeteries Committee began transcribing the Cataraqui Cemetery burial register from microfilm reels, preserving valuable records spanning 1853 to 1978. Thanks to their hard work, more than 34,000 burial records will soon be accessible to researchers worldwide, unlocking key historical details for genealogists and historians alike. During this 15-minute talk, Derrick will provide insights into the project’s development, its significance, and a step-by-step demonstration of how genealogists can explore the pages of the burial register. This meticulously indexed collection will allow users to search by surname, date of death, burial location, and more, making it an indispensable tool for family history research. This is a hybrid meeting. Attend in person at the Kingston Seniors’ Centre at 56 Francis Street or register to watch online.
