The four virtual presentations at the Ontario Genealogical Society this week are all free and open to the public.
These presentations are listed in Eastern time.
Monday, March 2, 7:00 p.m. — Leeds & Grenville Branch
Finding Faith and Family in Church Records by Kathryn Lake Hogan
Genealogists often turn to church records for vital events, but many overlook the wealth of additional information these sources contain. Churches were not just places of worship; they were social, cultural, and community hubs. Records such as membership lists, pew rentals, missionary reports, and denominational newspapers can reveal family relationships, migration patterns, and insights into social status. This presentation guides researchers in locating and interpreting these underused sources in Canada and beyond.
Attendees will learn strategies for accessing denominational archives, digital collections, and local repositories, while also gaining practical tools for applying these unique records to family history.
Examples will illustrate how these records can offer insights into ancestors’ religious practices, community involvement, and social standing. Practical advice on locating these records in archives, online databases, and digitized collections will be provided, along with strategies for interpretation, such as understanding theological terms, identifying biases in records, and connecting findings to other genealogical sources. Register to watch online.
Tuesday, March 3, 7:30 p.m. — Durham Region Branch
AI in Genealogy: Say Hello to Your Personal Research Assistant by Michael Nettleton
Michael will introduce us to Artificial Intelligence, using exploration of building source references and providing some additional actionable suggestions for getting started. Register to watch online.
Wednesday, March 4, 7:30 p.m. — Huron County Branch
Second World War: Researching the Canadians Who Served by Ken McKinlay
Ken’s presentation delves into the wealth of records available for researching those who served Canada 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. Register to watch online.
Saturday, March 7, 10:00 a.m. — London & Middlesex Branch
Genealogy at the London Psychiatric Hospital – A Brief Introduction by Paige Murray
In 1870, the London Asylum for the Insane (later called the London Psychiatric Hospital) opened on the historic outskirts of the City of London. The facility remained open for almost one-hundred and fifty years before closing in 2014. Over the years, thousands of patients passed through the facility. This talk will explore a brief history of the London Psychiatric Hospital and provide genealogical insights and guidance for researching family members who were patients at the facility.
This is a hybrid meeting. You may attend in person at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 1130 Riverside Drive or register to watch online.
