The Ontario Genealogical Society and its branches this week will host five, free virtual presentations on a variety of topics that are sure to interest many family historians.
The following are in Eastern time.
Monday, February 23, 7:30 p.m. — Toronto Branch
Top 10 Tips for Being a Better Researcher by Ken McKinlay
AI-Generated Genealogy Games — Transforming Great-Grandma’s Letters! by Janice Nickerson
Our main speaker, Ken McKinlay, will share his Top 10 Tips for Being a Better Researcher. He will offer insights into how to think strategically and see the big picture. Whether you’re just starting your family history journey or have been at it for years, you’re sure to gain some practical advice to help you keep moving forward.
In our “opening act,” Janice Nickerson will return with a whole new batch of fun ideas for engaging the whole family in our research. You won’t want to miss AI-Generated Genealogy Games — Transforming Great-Grandma’s Letters! Register to watch both presentations online.
Tuesday, February 24, 7:00 p.m. — Wellington County Branch
Transcribing, Translating and Summarizing Documents Using AI by Thomas MacEntee
Learn how to harness the power of artificial intelligence to assist in translating, transcribing, and summarizing a variety of genealogy records. A handwritten baptismal record from the 1800s? No problem. A faded newspaper obituary? No problem. We’ll cover the best AI platforms as well as how to craft a solid prompt to get you the results you need. Register to watch online.
Thursday, February 26, 7:00 p.m. — Ottawa Branch
Introducing LAC resources related to the No. 2 Construction Battalion (Ottawa) by Nicholas Lockhead
Discover the history of No. 2 Construction Battalion and explore First World War records at Library and Archives Canada (LAC). Learn about its 1916 formation as the only segregated unit in the Canadian Expeditionary Force, the barriers Black Canadians faced in military service, and its essential forestry work in France. Delve into service files, war diaries, administrative records, books, personal writings, and records of deaths and war graves, with expert guidance on navigating these historical sources. Register to watch online.
Thursday, February 26, 7:00 p.m. — Ontario Genealogical Society
Upper Canada Sundries – An under-used genealogical gold mine by Janice Nickerson
Where can you find whole communities begging for mercy for convicted horse thieves, neighbours informing on one another’s treasonous activities during the Rebellion of 1837, people applying for civil service jobs, widows asking for militia pensions, and huge lists of aliens resident in Upper Canada? In the Upper Canada Sundries. Come learn about this recently digitized little-known treasure trove of genealogical and biographical information about early residents of Ontario. Register to watch online.
