This sounds like it will be a most delightful way to spend an afternoon. The press release was sent in by Scott Gillies, Curator/Manager, of the Eva Brook Donly Museum & Archives -
"Mischief, mayhem, manslaughter & murder!
Join me on Tuesday May 24th for a presentation on crime and criminal activities in Norfolk County.
Presented as part of the monthly lecture series "Coffee With The Curator", admission is just $2 per person and includes coffee and light refreshments plus the presentation, and of course the chance to tour the Museum and see the newest display 'Memories of Mom - a tribute to Jeanette Hamilton'
"Just the Facts Ma'am"
What is this? – a special lecture on the topic of local crime in Norfolk County
Who done it? – the Museum Curator did it
When? – Tuesday May 24th at 2:00pm
Why? – so you can enjoy an afternoon outing with light refreshments, and learn about new research on old crimes
Where? – the Eva Brook Donly Museum & Archives
How Much will this cost me? – only $2/person (what a steal!)
Need more clues? Got questions?
Notorious Norfolk is presented as part of the new monthly lecture series, "Coffee with the Curator, at the Eva Brook Donly Museum & Archives generally held on the 3rd Tuesday of every month."
For more information, go to www.norfolklore.com.
A daily blog about Canadian genealogy, heritage, and history
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
The Ottawa Genealogist
The Spring/Summer edition of The Ottawa Genealogist came in the mail today, and it has some interesting articles in it for those who have ancestors in the Ottawa Valley area.
The "Ottawa Ladies College and the 1961 Address Book" by Ken Godfrey gives a brief history of the Ladies College that was established in 1869, and the address book which was made as a yearbook for Rose Gammons around 1904. There are places for 50 names and addresses in the book. A typical name/address is "Fern Kerr - Farraus (?) Point, Ontario. Be sure and write."
Another article is from Lynn Mathison entitled, "Letter Written 1916 by Military Bandsman: Describing Arnprior, Carleton Place, and Pakerham".
Her grandfather - Jack Cookson - described the three settlements as he travelled the countryside during WW I as a member of a military band.
Two smaller articles are also in the issue, and they are a description of "The Township Papers - Osgoode Township" by Guylaine Pétrin, and "Ontario Vital Statistics 1869" by Diane Walker Burnett in which she reprints an article found in the Toronto Globe (1869) which talks about the problem encountered in researching the BMDs.
If you wish further information, please contact the Branch at www.ogsottawa.on.ca, or the editor at editor@ogsottawa.on.ca.
The "Ottawa Ladies College and the 1961 Address Book" by Ken Godfrey gives a brief history of the Ladies College that was established in 1869, and the address book which was made as a yearbook for Rose Gammons around 1904. There are places for 50 names and addresses in the book. A typical name/address is "Fern Kerr - Farraus (?) Point, Ontario. Be sure and write."
Another article is from Lynn Mathison entitled, "Letter Written 1916 by Military Bandsman: Describing Arnprior, Carleton Place, and Pakerham".
Her grandfather - Jack Cookson - described the three settlements as he travelled the countryside during WW I as a member of a military band.
Two smaller articles are also in the issue, and they are a description of "The Township Papers - Osgoode Township" by Guylaine Pétrin, and "Ontario Vital Statistics 1869" by Diane Walker Burnett in which she reprints an article found in the Toronto Globe (1869) which talks about the problem encountered in researching the BMDs.
If you wish further information, please contact the Branch at www.ogsottawa.on.ca, or the editor at editor@ogsottawa.on.ca.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Call For Speakers
ENGLISH FAMILY HISTORY WORKSHOP
Jusr received this press release from the Toronto Branch of the OGS -
"Saturday, November 5, 2011
North York Central Library Auditorium
5120 Yonge Street, Toronto
The Ontario Genealogical Society, Toronto Branch and the Canadiana Department of the North York Central Library will be co-hosting a one-day workshop for family historians with English ancestors.
This workshop was originally planned to feature popular speakers, John D. Reid and Lesley Anderson from Ottawa. John and Lesley developed a very interesting plenary-style program for us and we were all set to announce it when it became necessary to reschedule the event. In so doing we have acquired a larger venue, making it possible to expand upon John and Lesley’s program.
You are invited to submit proposals for lectures on any aspect of English genealogical or social history research. Workshop attendees will be most interested in lectures emphasizing sources and research techniques that might prove useful in their own research.
Each session will be one hour long, including five or ten minutes for questions. Presentations should be illustrated—we can provide a computer projector or an overhead projector. Speakers will also be expected to provide a handout of supporting material (up to four pages) which we will photocopy for all registrants.
Speakers will be paid an honorarium of $100 per lecture, plus $25 to cover incidental expenses.
Please submit your lecture proposals by e-mail. Before you start developing your proposals we recommend that you request a copy of the outline of John and Lesley’s program so that you can avoid duplicating their presentations. Please keep your proposals brief and informal, at this point. (We may ask for more details later.) Be sure to include your mailing address, phone number, and a brief bio.
DEADLINE FOR PROPOSALS: SUNDAY, MAY 22, 2011
For more information about the Ontario Genealogical Society, Toronto Branch, please see: CALL FOR SPEAKERS.
To submit proposals or ask a question about the event, please contact the Education Committee, c/o Chair, Diana Thomson at courses@torontofamilyhistory.org".
Jusr received this press release from the Toronto Branch of the OGS -
"Saturday, November 5, 2011
North York Central Library Auditorium
5120 Yonge Street, Toronto
The Ontario Genealogical Society, Toronto Branch and the Canadiana Department of the North York Central Library will be co-hosting a one-day workshop for family historians with English ancestors.
This workshop was originally planned to feature popular speakers, John D. Reid and Lesley Anderson from Ottawa. John and Lesley developed a very interesting plenary-style program for us and we were all set to announce it when it became necessary to reschedule the event. In so doing we have acquired a larger venue, making it possible to expand upon John and Lesley’s program.
You are invited to submit proposals for lectures on any aspect of English genealogical or social history research. Workshop attendees will be most interested in lectures emphasizing sources and research techniques that might prove useful in their own research.
Each session will be one hour long, including five or ten minutes for questions. Presentations should be illustrated—we can provide a computer projector or an overhead projector. Speakers will also be expected to provide a handout of supporting material (up to four pages) which we will photocopy for all registrants.
Speakers will be paid an honorarium of $100 per lecture, plus $25 to cover incidental expenses.
Please submit your lecture proposals by e-mail. Before you start developing your proposals we recommend that you request a copy of the outline of John and Lesley’s program so that you can avoid duplicating their presentations. Please keep your proposals brief and informal, at this point. (We may ask for more details later.) Be sure to include your mailing address, phone number, and a brief bio.
DEADLINE FOR PROPOSALS: SUNDAY, MAY 22, 2011
For more information about the Ontario Genealogical Society, Toronto Branch, please see: CALL FOR SPEAKERS.
To submit proposals or ask a question about the event, please contact the Education Committee, c/o Chair, Diana Thomson at courses@torontofamilyhistory.org".
Monday, April 18, 2011
Destination Canada
One of the best books published in 2010—and which I use as my "go to" book on immigration, citizenship, and naturalization—is Dave Obee's book, Destination Canada: A Genealogical Guide to Immigration Records.
It's made up of 15 chapters -
Chapter 1 - The immigration experience
Chapter 2 - Four centuries of immigration
Chapter 3 - A timetable of migration to Canada
Chapter 4 - The key resources
Chapter 5 - The early years
Chapter 6 - Atlantic ports 1865-1935
Chapter 7 - Pacific ports 1858-1935
Chapter 8 - Through the United States
Chapter 9 - Arrivals since 1935
Chapter 10 - Outbound records
Chapter 11 - Immigration Branch (RG76)
Chapter 12 - Naturalization and citizenship
Chapter 13 - Just passing through?
Chapter 14 - Migration museums
Chapter 15 - Additional sources
I have found the book to be inclusive of all of the records, and where they can be found. There are very helpful maps which explain where the people have come from, and where they were going. And there is a very good chapter on migration museums around the world.
For any questions that I am asked about immigration, I always include Obee's book in my searching for the answer because I want to make sure that I am aware of all of the facts surrounding immigration to Canada.
For example, a question recently arose concerning immigration to Canada from Britain in 1927 - Is a passenger list the same as Immigration Records? Where did this person land? What port did he leave from in England? How did he get from the port to Central Canada?
By reading this book, and looking at the records at the Library and Archives Canada (LAC), as well as the records at Ancestry.ca, I was able to answer these questions.
To order a book, visit Dave's website at www.daveobee.com/index.html.
It's made up of 15 chapters -Chapter 1 - The immigration experience
Chapter 2 - Four centuries of immigration
Chapter 3 - A timetable of migration to Canada
Chapter 4 - The key resources
Chapter 5 - The early years
Chapter 6 - Atlantic ports 1865-1935
Chapter 7 - Pacific ports 1858-1935
Chapter 8 - Through the United States
Chapter 9 - Arrivals since 1935
Chapter 10 - Outbound records
Chapter 11 - Immigration Branch (RG76)
Chapter 12 - Naturalization and citizenship
Chapter 13 - Just passing through?
Chapter 14 - Migration museums
Chapter 15 - Additional sources
I have found the book to be inclusive of all of the records, and where they can be found. There are very helpful maps which explain where the people have come from, and where they were going. And there is a very good chapter on migration museums around the world.
For any questions that I am asked about immigration, I always include Obee's book in my searching for the answer because I want to make sure that I am aware of all of the facts surrounding immigration to Canada.
For example, a question recently arose concerning immigration to Canada from Britain in 1927 - Is a passenger list the same as Immigration Records? Where did this person land? What port did he leave from in England? How did he get from the port to Central Canada?
By reading this book, and looking at the records at the Library and Archives Canada (LAC), as well as the records at Ancestry.ca, I was able to answer these questions.
To order a book, visit Dave's website at www.daveobee.com/index.html.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
The British Columbia Genealogical Society is 40 Years Old!
Happy birthday, BCGS! Congratulations to the Society, and to its President, M. Diane Rogers, and members, for this landmark anniversary. Here's to many more!
The March edition of their newsletter, The British Columbia Genealogist, is a hefty one (it's 50 pages long), with articles including "Documents Reunited With A Family - Bridges, Rauly, Slidders, Stenhouse, Stevens', "Vancouver, BC Post Office War Memorial Plaque", and "BC Roll of Honour, World War I - From The Gold Stripe".
The article, "Impressive Ceremonies Mark Unveiling of Two Langley War Memorials' - Headline from The British Columbian - Monday September 13, 1920", also gives a brief bio of 41 men whose names are on the Landley Memorial from the First World War -
Eugene Lawrence Allard, Edward Weldon Berry, William Elton Berry, Sidney Boundy, Hew McKenzie Bradshaw, T. Brand, Henry (Harry) Brawn, Carleton Hust Brown, Brian Harper Butler, John (Jack) Bertram Carvolth, G. H. Davis, Valentine Davies (Davis), Frank Wesley Glover, Marcelle Gueho, John Crowell Henderson, Donald Howell, Demster Wishart Howes, Hector John Roderick Jackson, Arthur Thomas Johnston, William Henry (Hy) Johnston, Noel Wilfred Kendall, William Lee, James McKay, Gordon Alexander McDonald, James McDonald, Alexander McIntyre, Francis Hubert Read, Frederick Orlando Roberts, David Robertson, George Edward Sellers, Robert Hazlette (Hazie) Simonds, Harry Leslie Swain, George Henry Topham, John Bertram Topping, Alfred William Trattle, Stanley Tyres, George Lewis Warners, Harold Milton White, William Arthur Wilson, Capon Victor Montague (Monty) Wix, and Jesse Wright.
Other interesting columns are "Queries", a "List of Presidents from 1971 to 2011", "Yearbooks & Annuals", "Publications List", and "New Acquisitions at the Walter Draycott Library".
For information on the Society, please go to www.bcgs.ca, or email them at editor@bcgs.ca.
The March edition of their newsletter, The British Columbia Genealogist, is a hefty one (it's 50 pages long), with articles including "Documents Reunited With A Family - Bridges, Rauly, Slidders, Stenhouse, Stevens', "Vancouver, BC Post Office War Memorial Plaque", and "BC Roll of Honour, World War I - From The Gold Stripe".
The article, "Impressive Ceremonies Mark Unveiling of Two Langley War Memorials' - Headline from The British Columbian - Monday September 13, 1920", also gives a brief bio of 41 men whose names are on the Landley Memorial from the First World War -
Eugene Lawrence Allard, Edward Weldon Berry, William Elton Berry, Sidney Boundy, Hew McKenzie Bradshaw, T. Brand, Henry (Harry) Brawn, Carleton Hust Brown, Brian Harper Butler, John (Jack) Bertram Carvolth, G. H. Davis, Valentine Davies (Davis), Frank Wesley Glover, Marcelle Gueho, John Crowell Henderson, Donald Howell, Demster Wishart Howes, Hector John Roderick Jackson, Arthur Thomas Johnston, William Henry (Hy) Johnston, Noel Wilfred Kendall, William Lee, James McKay, Gordon Alexander McDonald, James McDonald, Alexander McIntyre, Francis Hubert Read, Frederick Orlando Roberts, David Robertson, George Edward Sellers, Robert Hazlette (Hazie) Simonds, Harry Leslie Swain, George Henry Topham, John Bertram Topping, Alfred William Trattle, Stanley Tyres, George Lewis Warners, Harold Milton White, William Arthur Wilson, Capon Victor Montague (Monty) Wix, and Jesse Wright.
Other interesting columns are "Queries", a "List of Presidents from 1971 to 2011", "Yearbooks & Annuals", "Publications List", and "New Acquisitions at the Walter Draycott Library".
For information on the Society, please go to www.bcgs.ca, or email them at editor@bcgs.ca.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
FamilySearch.org Updates
Leland Meitzler, a friend on mine for many years, has just put on the latest Canadian update of FamilySearch.org on his site www.genealogyblog.com.
I took a minute to check it out, and although it had many of the records already at www.FamilySearch.org, I was able to find a new record for Catherine Barclay Rockwell, born 02 March, 1876 at Cornwallis, Kings, Nova Scotia. Her father's name was given as Rupert Rockwell, and her mother's name was given as Isabell Barclay, the daughter of Andrew Barclay, of Shelburne, Nova Scotia - an ancestor of mine.
The source information was given as Indexing Project (Batch) Number: C53461-1, System Origin: Nova_Scotia-ODM, and the Source Film Number:1298810.
Not long after her birth, the whole family moved out to California, where they joined Isabell's sister, Annie Louisa Haley, at Newark, Almeda County.
I took a minute to check it out, and although it had many of the records already at www.FamilySearch.org, I was able to find a new record for Catherine Barclay Rockwell, born 02 March, 1876 at Cornwallis, Kings, Nova Scotia. Her father's name was given as Rupert Rockwell, and her mother's name was given as Isabell Barclay, the daughter of Andrew Barclay, of Shelburne, Nova Scotia - an ancestor of mine.
The source information was given as Indexing Project (Batch) Number: C53461-1, System Origin: Nova_Scotia-ODM, and the Source Film Number:1298810.
Not long after her birth, the whole family moved out to California, where they joined Isabell's sister, Annie Louisa Haley, at Newark, Almeda County.
Friday, April 15, 2011
War of 1812 Re-enactment - Help Wanted
You can take part in the Celebrate Barrie Festival on June 4th at the 19th Century Heritage Village in Barrie, Ontario by being re-enactors, artisans, entertainers, historical displays, etc. This is a paid event.We are once again looking for re-enactors to partake in this one day event at the waterfront in downtown Barrie, and are specifically looking for the following:
– British & American Military Units, Individuals & Encampments
– Fife and Drum Groups
– Period Demonstrators, Artisans, Entertainers and Merchants
– Native & Voyageur Units, Individuals & Encampments
– Artillery Crews and Cannons/Artillery Encampments
– Long Boat Crews and Boats with Cannons/Naval Encampments
If you have a special unique 19th century talent not listed above, we would also like to hear from you!!!
This is a paid event for all participants, and you will be compensated for attending and providing wholesome education and public orientated programming. A reminder that this event is a little different from normal re-enactments, as all participants are being compensated for attending, and during education and public hours, you are required to cater and interact with the public. First person interpretations and historical portrayals are stressed and encouraged as much as possible.
If you are available to attend the event, please submit a proposal with the following information from you or your unit/group:
1. Name, Address, Postal Code, Phone Number and E-mail address
2. A description of what you have to offer in regards to talent, demonstrations, exhibits, entertainment, encampments, etc.
3. Any promotional materials, pictures, website addresses, flyers, DVD, CD, etc. promoting yourself or your group
4. How many performances, interpretations, and presentations you would
perform, if applicable.
5. How much it would cost for participating in this one day event.
6. Please submit your proposals to David J. Brunelle (below):
The Festival Committee will be making decisions on an ongoing basis as to which proposals we will be accepting for the event.
We look forward to receiving everyone's proposals. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me, David J. Brunelle, Project Director, at davidbrunelle@rogers.com.
You can also go to the website at www.1812bicentennial.com.
Ghost Towns of Canada
Fred Dittmar, of Diggin' Deep Genealogy Research Service in Norman, Oklahoma, is the List Administrator for the Ghost Towns of Canada and the US mailing list at RootsWeb. You can contact him at dittmar_ksa@ou.edu for questions about the list.
Fred says that he started "12 Rootsweb mail lists late last year. There is one for each Province and Territory in Canada".
He explained that (as the site itself says) that 'This list is for the study and researching of town names, residents, history and locations of abandoned ghost towns, camps or posts that your ancestors lived in, passed through or you have a genealogical interest in, in the Province of British Columbia, the Province of Alberta etc."
Fred adds that "The mail lists are only as good as the people who post and talk with each other. That's my motto: Post a lot, talk a lot, have fun, be nice and help each other but don't forget I have a size 13 shoe. It works……lol Thanks again Fred".
You can reach the list at: http://lists.rootsweb.ancestry.com/index/intl/CAN and search "ghost towns".
Fred says that he started "12 Rootsweb mail lists late last year. There is one for each Province and Territory in Canada".
He explained that (as the site itself says) that 'This list is for the study and researching of town names, residents, history and locations of abandoned ghost towns, camps or posts that your ancestors lived in, passed through or you have a genealogical interest in, in the Province of British Columbia, the Province of Alberta etc."
Fred adds that "The mail lists are only as good as the people who post and talk with each other. That's my motto: Post a lot, talk a lot, have fun, be nice and help each other but don't forget I have a size 13 shoe. It works……lol Thanks again Fred".
You can reach the list at: http://lists.rootsweb.ancestry.com/index/intl/CAN and search "ghost towns".
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Moore Family Reunion
There will be a reunion of descendants of Samuel Moore of Massachusetts and New Jersey on Saturday, June 25, 2011 at the Norwich and District Museum, 89 Stover Street North, Norwich, Ontario.
He was born in 1630, and his great-grandson, Samuel Moore of New Jersey, was born in 1742.
People are invited from across Canada and the USA.
Mark the date on your calendar now, and plan to attend!
For more information, contact:
Donna Moore, UE,
d.moore3@sympatico.ca
He was born in 1630, and his great-grandson, Samuel Moore of New Jersey, was born in 1742.
People are invited from across Canada and the USA.
Mark the date on your calendar now, and plan to attend!
For more information, contact:
Donna Moore, UE,
d.moore3@sympatico.ca
Shelburne County Archives & Genealogical Society
Shelburne County Archives & Genealogical Society NewsletterIn the Winter 2011 issue, they bring us up-to-date on the latest news of the Society, and on page 2 there is a lengthy article about the "Missing Link: The Ancestry of John Spinney" by Brian Smith.
It is interesting to see how Brian took a few clues from the "History of Barrington Township" about Spinney's ancestry, and by using classic research in land petitions, and research at the New England History and Genealogical Society, Smith was able to go back three generations.
There is also a transcription by Ann and M. Edward Butt of the notes by Walter E. Abbott in "Surveying the Canadian United States Border as found in Stories and Reminisces of Walter E. Abbot" as how he talked about the boundary as it affected the fishing industry.
There are a couple of projects of the Society that may interest the readers of this blog, and they are -
The Society will soon issue a publication on the doctors and dentists of Shelburne from 1783 to 1965, and
The "Women of Shelburne County",which is an oral history project. It will be released on a DVD, and will be released early in the summer.
To look at the website, please visit them at http://nsgna.ednet.ns.ca/shelburne or contact them at gensentre@ns.sympatico.ca.
Disclaimer: I am from Shelburne, and am a descendant on my paternal side of Andrew Barclay, a Port Roseway Associated Loyalist, one of the founders of the town in 1783.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
OGS Conference Early Bird Price Extension
There is only three days left for the Early Bird Registration. I plan to be in Hamilton from the 13th to the 15th of May so I will see you there!
The Provincial Office of the OGS sent me this notice -
"Due to the delays in opening registration back in January, we are extending the Early Bird conference registration prices until the end of Friday April 15, 2011.
Members can still register for the full weekend conference (Friday night, Saturday and Sunday) for the Early Bird price of $140.00 ($160.00 for non-members).
Take full advantage of the extra two weeks of low prices and register for Conference now".
To see the details of the Conference, go to www.ogs.on.ca/conference2011
The Provincial Office of the OGS sent me this notice -
"Due to the delays in opening registration back in January, we are extending the Early Bird conference registration prices until the end of Friday April 15, 2011.
Members can still register for the full weekend conference (Friday night, Saturday and Sunday) for the Early Bird price of $140.00 ($160.00 for non-members).
Take full advantage of the extra two weeks of low prices and register for Conference now".
To see the details of the Conference, go to www.ogs.on.ca/conference2011
Stratford Heritage Week-End Event
Here is something that I received from the Perth County Genealogical Society which may interest you!
"The Stratford-Perth Archives will partner with the Perth County Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society to host "Ask the Genealogy Genies" as part of the Stratford Heritage Week-End event.
Location: Stratford-Perth Archives, 24 St. Andrew St., Stratford ON
Time: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.
Free entry for all.
For further information, contact Betty Jo Belton at 519-271-0531, extension 259 or
Lynn Matthison at matthison@quadro.net.
Some of the other events happening on the weekend include:
* Antique Show
* Heritage Tours – Walking or in Horse-Drawn Carriages
* 10th Annual Railway Heritage Show
* Doors of Perth County Display at the Stratford-Perth Museum
* Ploughmen's Lunches from St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
* "Doors Open" at the Fryfogel Inn
* vintage films of Perth County at the Visitors' Centre in Shakespeare
.... and many other exciting opportunities to celebrate our local history!
As we near the date, check out the Stratford Tourism Alliance website: www.welcometostratford.com, click on "What's ON", then the Event Calendar for June".
"The Stratford-Perth Archives will partner with the Perth County Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society to host "Ask the Genealogy Genies" as part of the Stratford Heritage Week-End event.
Location: Stratford-Perth Archives, 24 St. Andrew St., Stratford ON
Time: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.
Free entry for all.
For further information, contact Betty Jo Belton at 519-271-0531, extension 259 or
Lynn Matthison at matthison@quadro.net.
Some of the other events happening on the weekend include:
* Antique Show
* Heritage Tours – Walking or in Horse-Drawn Carriages
* 10th Annual Railway Heritage Show
* Doors of Perth County Display at the Stratford-Perth Museum
* Ploughmen's Lunches from St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
* "Doors Open" at the Fryfogel Inn
* vintage films of Perth County at the Visitors' Centre in Shakespeare
.... and many other exciting opportunities to celebrate our local history!
As we near the date, check out the Stratford Tourism Alliance website: www.welcometostratford.com, click on "What's ON", then the Event Calendar for June".
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Finding Ontario Ancestors Workshop
The following press release was just received from the people at the Toronto Branch of the OGS -
"Finding Ontario Ancestors Workshop
6 August 2011
North York Central Library Auditorium
5120 Yonge Street, Toronto
The Ontario Genealogical Society, Toronto Branch and the Canadiana Department of the North York Central Library will be co-hosting a one-day workshop on sources for Ontario family and local history research.
We are looking for speakers who would like to be part of the workshop.
The theme "Finding Ontario Ancestors" is broad, but presentations should emphasize sources. Your presentation could focus on a single type of record or source, a record group, or demonstrate how several sources can be used together.
You are invited to submit proposals for lectures on any aspect of Ontario genealogical or local history research that fits the above criteria.
We need lectures at all levels of expertise. Each session will be one hour long, including five or ten minutes for questions. Presentations should be illustrated—we can provide a computer projector or an overhead projector. Speakers will also be expected to provide a handout of supporting material (up to four pages) which we will photocopy for all registrants.
Speakers will be paid an honorarium of $100 per lecture, plus modest expenses for travel and accommodation.
Please submit your lecture proposals by e-mail. Please keep them brief and informal, at this point. (We may ask for more details later.) Be sure to include your mailing address, phone number, and a brief bio.
DEADLINE FOR PROPOSALS: SUNDAY, MAY 1, 2011
To submit proposals or ask a question about the event, please contact Jane MacNamara at info@torontofamilyhistory.org."
"Finding Ontario Ancestors Workshop
6 August 2011
North York Central Library Auditorium
5120 Yonge Street, Toronto
The Ontario Genealogical Society, Toronto Branch and the Canadiana Department of the North York Central Library will be co-hosting a one-day workshop on sources for Ontario family and local history research.
We are looking for speakers who would like to be part of the workshop.
The theme "Finding Ontario Ancestors" is broad, but presentations should emphasize sources. Your presentation could focus on a single type of record or source, a record group, or demonstrate how several sources can be used together.
You are invited to submit proposals for lectures on any aspect of Ontario genealogical or local history research that fits the above criteria.
We need lectures at all levels of expertise. Each session will be one hour long, including five or ten minutes for questions. Presentations should be illustrated—we can provide a computer projector or an overhead projector. Speakers will also be expected to provide a handout of supporting material (up to four pages) which we will photocopy for all registrants.
Speakers will be paid an honorarium of $100 per lecture, plus modest expenses for travel and accommodation.
Please submit your lecture proposals by e-mail. Please keep them brief and informal, at this point. (We may ask for more details later.) Be sure to include your mailing address, phone number, and a brief bio.
DEADLINE FOR PROPOSALS: SUNDAY, MAY 1, 2011
To submit proposals or ask a question about the event, please contact Jane MacNamara at info@torontofamilyhistory.org."
Guess the Relative
Tom Pullen, Assistant Producer - Development of the Dragonfly Film and Television Productions Ltd, in London (England), recently sent me the following press release -
"Do you think your family tree might have British roots?
Would you like to travel to Britain to discover your living relatives?
Dragonfly TV in London, England, is making an exciting new game show, called Guess the Relative, featuring families, ancestors and long-lost relatives.
We're searching for people from all over the world, who think they may have British ancestry, who would like to take part.
Whether your Great Great Grandfather was born in England or your Great Aunt lived in Scotland... If you think you, or anyone you know, may have any British ancestry, we want to hear from you!
Pullen says that 'We're currently looking for people from Canada who think they may have a distant ancestor from the UK. Their ancestor might be several generations back and come from England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland - but if they have any link to the UK whatsoever, we want to hear about it!"
Visit www.guesstherelative.tv now to find out more and apply to take part!"
Monday, April 11, 2011
The Archives of Ontario Would Like to Hear From You
From The Archives of Ontario -
"This is just a friendly reminder, if you have not already taken this survey, your opinions are important to us.
In our continuing effort to help you access and understand the collections and services of the Archives of Ontario with efficiency, fairness and courtesy, we have commissioned Ipsos Reid, a Market Research company to gather your feedback in a customer survey.
Before you start your survey, here are a few things you need to know:
1. Your responses are completely confidential. None of your answers will be associated with you personally.
2. Please ensure that you have thought carefully about your responses as once you start to progress through the survey you will be unable to return to previous responses and alter any answers.
3. To access the survey, please click on the link below or copy the entire URL into the address bar of your internet browser.
www.ipsosresearch.com/archives
Start now before it's too late. It will only take 10 – 15 minutes to complete.
Questions? If you have any questions about this survey, please feel free to email Ipsos at archives@ipsos-research.com and we will be happy to help.
As a token of our appreciation for your time, upon completion of the survey you will be entered into a draw for one of five framed reproductions from the Archives' collection. Personal information will be collected at the end of the survey to enter you in the draw.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts!"
"This is just a friendly reminder, if you have not already taken this survey, your opinions are important to us.
In our continuing effort to help you access and understand the collections and services of the Archives of Ontario with efficiency, fairness and courtesy, we have commissioned Ipsos Reid, a Market Research company to gather your feedback in a customer survey.
Before you start your survey, here are a few things you need to know:
1. Your responses are completely confidential. None of your answers will be associated with you personally.
2. Please ensure that you have thought carefully about your responses as once you start to progress through the survey you will be unable to return to previous responses and alter any answers.
3. To access the survey, please click on the link below or copy the entire URL into the address bar of your internet browser.
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Start now before it's too late. It will only take 10 – 15 minutes to complete.
Questions? If you have any questions about this survey, please feel free to email Ipsos at archives@ipsos-research.com and we will be happy to help.
As a token of our appreciation for your time, upon completion of the survey you will be entered into a draw for one of five framed reproductions from the Archives' collection. Personal information will be collected at the end of the survey to enter you in the draw.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts!"
A Presentation For Irish Family Historians
The Toronto Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society is pleased to announce a special evening for Irish family historians.
Noted genealogist Christ Paton, author of the new publication Tracing Your Family History on the Internet, will present a two-part lecture on the topic of "Irish Resources Online" on Thursday 16 June, commencing at 7:30 p.m.
If you would like to attend this event, please assist us with our planning and ensure the best rate by registering in advance. Send an e-mail to the Branch Education Committee at courses@torontofamilyhistory.org with the subject line "Irish lecture". Please note in your e-mail whether you are an OGS member and eligible for a fee reduction. Pre-registration will be accepted until 13 June. Registration at the door will be possible starting at 7:15 p.m. only if space permits.
Fees for this event may be paid in advance at a Toronto Branch meeting – otherwise, payment should be made at the door.
COST: Pre-registered OGS members $10 Pre-registered non-members $15
At the door OGS members $15 At the door non-members $20
For full speaker and program details and to check for registration updates, visit the Toronto Branch website at www.torontofamilyhistory.org.
Noted genealogist Christ Paton, author of the new publication Tracing Your Family History on the Internet, will present a two-part lecture on the topic of "Irish Resources Online" on Thursday 16 June, commencing at 7:30 p.m.
If you would like to attend this event, please assist us with our planning and ensure the best rate by registering in advance. Send an e-mail to the Branch Education Committee at courses@torontofamilyhistory.org with the subject line "Irish lecture". Please note in your e-mail whether you are an OGS member and eligible for a fee reduction. Pre-registration will be accepted until 13 June. Registration at the door will be possible starting at 7:15 p.m. only if space permits.
Fees for this event may be paid in advance at a Toronto Branch meeting – otherwise, payment should be made at the door.
COST: Pre-registered OGS members $10 Pre-registered non-members $15
At the door OGS members $15 At the door non-members $20
For full speaker and program details and to check for registration updates, visit the Toronto Branch website at www.torontofamilyhistory.org.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Canada in the American Civil War
Although Canada (British North America) was considered neutral in the American Civil War (1860-1865), with between 30,000 to 50,000 Canadians fighting for the Union (Northern), and the Confederates (Southern) side of the conflict.
They were signed-on by the recruiters, and according to a book by John Herd Thompson and Stephen J. Randall called Canada and the United States, Canada refused to return 15,000 American deserters, and draft dodgers.
Four of the sites which may interest you are -
http://pvtchurch.tripod.com This site is very comprehensive. It gives the complete history of the Canadians in the American Civil War, has letters written by the soldiers back to their homes, and the history of The Underground Railway, the way taken by the slaves to come to Canada.
www.suite101.com/article.cfm/canadian_tourism/97383 Gives a brief history of Canadians in the American Civil War.
www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~canmil/cw/index.html This site is maintaied by Brian Massey, the great-grandson of William Massey who enlisted in the war Tennessee, although he was from the provience of Ontario.
www.ancestry.com/civilwar_sub?o_iid=47474&o_lid=47474 Ancestry.com has updated it's holdings, and is offering a 14-day free access to the database.
They were signed-on by the recruiters, and according to a book by John Herd Thompson and Stephen J. Randall called Canada and the United States, Canada refused to return 15,000 American deserters, and draft dodgers.
Four of the sites which may interest you are -
http://pvtchurch.tripod.com This site is very comprehensive. It gives the complete history of the Canadians in the American Civil War, has letters written by the soldiers back to their homes, and the history of The Underground Railway, the way taken by the slaves to come to Canada.
www.suite101.com/article.cfm/canadian_tourism/97383 Gives a brief history of Canadians in the American Civil War.
www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~canmil/cw/index.html This site is maintaied by Brian Massey, the great-grandson of William Massey who enlisted in the war Tennessee, although he was from the provience of Ontario.
www.ancestry.com/civilwar_sub?o_iid=47474&o_lid=47474 Ancestry.com has updated it's holdings, and is offering a 14-day free access to the database.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
A New Chinese Canadian Website
A new website has been launched which is dedicated to the oral histories of Chinese Canadian women during the exclusion period (1921-1967)*.
Launched March 31st, the website explores the impact of discriminatory immigration legislation with 33 new interviews conducted across Canada. You can see the interviews by going to www.mhso.ca.
As the website says, "The MHSO started work on a two-year project, "Chinese Canadian Women 1923-1967: Inspiration-Innovation-Ingenuity". This project will bring together a variety of sources, including new oral history interviews that will be conducted across the country. It will culminate in an online portal that will make exhibitions, digital resources, learning materials and interactive activities available to the public. Online users will also be invited to contribute to this commemoration of the experiences of Chinese Canadian women".
Also online is the launch of "The Ties that Bind Online Exhibit" which was put on in Toronto, August 28, 2010.
There are more interviews with Chinese Canadians online. It tells how they made a contribution to Canadian history by helping to build the Canadian Pacific Railway.
Twelve descendants of the Chinese railroad workers are now sharing their family stories. You can see these stories on "The Ties That Bind: Building the CPR, Building a Place in Canada" online at www.mhso.ca/tiesthatbind.
The project is sponsored by the Foundation to Commemorate the Chinese Railroad Workers in Canada, in partnership with the Multicultural History Society of Ontario, with funding from Citizenship and Immigration Canada under the Community Historical Recognition Program.
* For information on this period in Canadian history, you can go to www.mhso.ca/chinesecanadianwomen/en/timeline.php?e=9 to read about the Exclusion Period.
Launched March 31st, the website explores the impact of discriminatory immigration legislation with 33 new interviews conducted across Canada. You can see the interviews by going to www.mhso.ca.
As the website says, "The MHSO started work on a two-year project, "Chinese Canadian Women 1923-1967: Inspiration-Innovation-Ingenuity". This project will bring together a variety of sources, including new oral history interviews that will be conducted across the country. It will culminate in an online portal that will make exhibitions, digital resources, learning materials and interactive activities available to the public. Online users will also be invited to contribute to this commemoration of the experiences of Chinese Canadian women".
Also online is the launch of "The Ties that Bind Online Exhibit" which was put on in Toronto, August 28, 2010.
There are more interviews with Chinese Canadians online. It tells how they made a contribution to Canadian history by helping to build the Canadian Pacific Railway.
Twelve descendants of the Chinese railroad workers are now sharing their family stories. You can see these stories on "The Ties That Bind: Building the CPR, Building a Place in Canada" online at www.mhso.ca/tiesthatbind.
The project is sponsored by the Foundation to Commemorate the Chinese Railroad Workers in Canada, in partnership with the Multicultural History Society of Ontario, with funding from Citizenship and Immigration Canada under the Community Historical Recognition Program.
* For information on this period in Canadian history, you can go to www.mhso.ca/chinesecanadianwomen/en/timeline.php?e=9 to read about the Exclusion Period.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Dutch Heritage Month
May is Dutch Heritage Month in Ontario.
Last month, Ontario's PC MPP, Elizabeth Witmer, introduced a private member's bill into the Ontario Legislature which would designate May as Dutch Heritage Month in Ontario.
Bill 166, Dutch Heritage Month Act, was unanimously given both second and third reading March 24th.
More than 500,000 citizens of Ontario are of Dutch extraction, and about a million people in Canada are of Dutch ancestry.
"This bill recognizes the many contributions of the Dutch community to the province of Ontario," said Ernie Hardeman, Oxford MPP. "As a Dutch Ontarian, I am especially proud to see the strong relationship between the Netherlands and Canada recognized by the Ontario Legislature."
May is a historically significant month. Canadian soldiers were instrumental in the liberation of the Netherlands in 1945. As a result, the Netherlands celebrates its liberation and independence along with the heroic actions of the Canadian forces with a national holiday on May 5, known as Liberation Day.
Ottawa has its annual Tulip Festival celebration in May. This year's theme is "Kaleidoscope – a celebration of spring awakening through colour, culture and community". You can go to www.tulipfestival.ca to see the list of events.
For more information on the Dutch in Canada, you can go to the LAC's website www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/genealogy/022-905.013-e.html, and research the "Immigration Branch", "Central Registry Files (RG 76)", the "Other Series of Records, the "Research in Other Institutions", "Research in Published Sources", and the "Research Online" pages.
Last month, Ontario's PC MPP, Elizabeth Witmer, introduced a private member's bill into the Ontario Legislature which would designate May as Dutch Heritage Month in Ontario.
Bill 166, Dutch Heritage Month Act, was unanimously given both second and third reading March 24th.
More than 500,000 citizens of Ontario are of Dutch extraction, and about a million people in Canada are of Dutch ancestry.
"This bill recognizes the many contributions of the Dutch community to the province of Ontario," said Ernie Hardeman, Oxford MPP. "As a Dutch Ontarian, I am especially proud to see the strong relationship between the Netherlands and Canada recognized by the Ontario Legislature."
May is a historically significant month. Canadian soldiers were instrumental in the liberation of the Netherlands in 1945. As a result, the Netherlands celebrates its liberation and independence along with the heroic actions of the Canadian forces with a national holiday on May 5, known as Liberation Day.
Ottawa has its annual Tulip Festival celebration in May. This year's theme is "Kaleidoscope – a celebration of spring awakening through colour, culture and community". You can go to www.tulipfestival.ca to see the list of events.
For more information on the Dutch in Canada, you can go to the LAC's website www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/genealogy/022-905.013-e.html, and research the "Immigration Branch", "Central Registry Files (RG 76)", the "Other Series of Records, the "Research in Other Institutions", "Research in Published Sources", and the "Research Online" pages.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Tartan Day
Here is my clan's dress tartan, that being the Barclay Clan.(yellow and black with white overcheck)
Back on October 22, 2010, the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, announced that the Government of Canada made the official announcement that the country would recognize April 6 as Tartan Day.
"A tartan represents a clan, a family, and a community, and is an enduring symbol of Scotland that is cherished by Canadians of Scottish ancestry," said Minister Moore. "Many Canadian provinces and other countries already celebrate Tartan Day. As well, through Tartan Day, Canadians will have an opportunity to learn more about the various cultures that comprise Canadian society."
Tartan Day originated in the late 1980s in Nova Scotia, where it was declared an official day by the provincial government. It then spread across the country, with many provinces joining in. This marks the first time the Day has been recognized by the federal government.
"By officially recognizing this Day, we encourage Canadians all across the country to celebrate the contributions that over four million Canadians of Scottish heritage continue to make to the foundation of our country," said Senator John Wallace, who recently introduced a bill in the Senate in support of nationally declaring Tartan Day.
In Canada, Tartan Day is celebrated on April 6, the anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath, the Scottish Declaration of Independence. Tartan Day celebrations typically include parades of pipe bands, Highland dancing and sports, and other Scottish-themed events.
For an online copy of the Declaration, please visit http://ucsac.blogspot.com/2011/02/tartan-day-just-around-table.html.
As well, check out the Tartans of Canada website for the official and non-official tartans of Canada, the provinces, and the territories www.craigmarlatt.com/canada/symbols_facts&lists/tartans.html
From Scotland On Line, check out the thousands of tartans for your own clan or related septs at www.tartans.scotland.net/find_tartan.cfm.htm. The site shows samples of the tartan, and offers a history of it. Truly, an awesome resource.
And for a history of the tartan, check out Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tartan
Here is Clan Barclay's hunting tartan(blue and green with red overcheck)
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Genealogy One-to-One Consultation
Are you looking to solve a curious family mystery? Need guidance and advice on where to go next?
Book a free 30 minute one-to-one appointment with Local History and Genealogy Librarian, Joanne McCarthy, at the Spring Garden Road Memorial Public Library on Saturday, April 16 at 10:00 a.m. Registration is required.
You will learn how to research and organize your family tree; discover important local and online genealogy records; and learn how to search for your ancestors using Ancestry.ca.
You can reach the Library online at www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca, follow them on Twitter http://twitter.com/hfxpublib and on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/hfxpublib, and you can call them at 902.490.5813.
Book a free 30 minute one-to-one appointment with Local History and Genealogy Librarian, Joanne McCarthy, at the Spring Garden Road Memorial Public Library on Saturday, April 16 at 10:00 a.m. Registration is required.
You will learn how to research and organize your family tree; discover important local and online genealogy records; and learn how to search for your ancestors using Ancestry.ca.
You can reach the Library online at www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca, follow them on Twitter http://twitter.com/hfxpublib and on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/hfxpublib, and you can call them at 902.490.5813.
Friday, March 18, 2011
NewsLeaf Editor Announced
Joyce Fingland has been appointed the new NewsLeaf and e-NewsLeaf editor. She has already assumed the editorship of e-NewsLeaf (the first issue will be out in April), and she will produce the first issue of NewsLeaf in August.
I have been the editor of NewsLeaf since 1996, and editor of e-NewsLeaf since 1998, and now I am the editor of Families - the journal of the Ontario Genealogical Society.
It will seem strange not to have the editorship of NewsLeaf in which I worked directly with the Regional Directors and Chairs of the Branches of the OGS, but am pleased to know that it will be in good hands with Joyce.
From e-Announce of March 4th, 2011 -
The Ontario Genealogical Society is pleased to announce the appointment of Joyce Fingland as Editor of NewsLeaf and e-NewsLeaf.
Currently the Editor of Kingston Relations, Joyce is an active OGS member who belongs to the Kingston, Quinte, and Ottawa branches. She has worked on the Kingston Branch Publications Committee and has authored several books about the history of her family as well as an article about British Home Children. Joyce also brings extensive technical and layout experience from her work with the Limestone District School Board.
Joyce will be taking over the position previously held by Elizabeth Lapointe, who was recently appointed Editor of Families, and who can now direct all of her energies to that endeavour.
We are happy to have Joyce with us, and look forward to her work on NewsLeaf.
I have been the editor of NewsLeaf since 1996, and editor of e-NewsLeaf since 1998, and now I am the editor of Families - the journal of the Ontario Genealogical Society.
It will seem strange not to have the editorship of NewsLeaf in which I worked directly with the Regional Directors and Chairs of the Branches of the OGS, but am pleased to know that it will be in good hands with Joyce.
From e-Announce of March 4th, 2011 -
The Ontario Genealogical Society is pleased to announce the appointment of Joyce Fingland as Editor of NewsLeaf and e-NewsLeaf.
Currently the Editor of Kingston Relations, Joyce is an active OGS member who belongs to the Kingston, Quinte, and Ottawa branches. She has worked on the Kingston Branch Publications Committee and has authored several books about the history of her family as well as an article about British Home Children. Joyce also brings extensive technical and layout experience from her work with the Limestone District School Board.
Joyce will be taking over the position previously held by Elizabeth Lapointe, who was recently appointed Editor of Families, and who can now direct all of her energies to that endeavour.
We are happy to have Joyce with us, and look forward to her work on NewsLeaf.
Monday, February 21, 2011
OGS 50th Anniversary Events
With the 50th Anniversary of the Ontario Genealogical Society to be celebrated from the 13th to the 15th of May in beautiful downtown Hamilton, there are five areas of interest which you can read about, and in some cases, take a part of - Golden Anniversaries, Top 50 in 50, the Conference itself, the OGS Cruise, and TONI.
Links to the above can be found at www.ogs.on.ca/home/news.php, from which the following are found -
"Ontario Genealogical Society’s 50th Anniversary
In 2011, the OGS will be 50 years old. The OGS Board has approved the following celebrations and projects to commemorate the occasion.
Conference 2011
To be held in Hamilton on May 13 to 15, this will be our birthday party. Details can be found on the OGS website and through our blog. Don Hinchley, Past President pastpresident@ogs.on.ca, is Conference Chair.
Cruise
We will hold a genealogical cruise of the east coast of North America in September 2011. This is a continuation of our birthday party. For information on the ‘ports of call’ and the dates and costs, please see the website. Mary Rossiter, Director of Region 10 director10@ogs.on.ca, and Cathy Blackburn, Director of Region 9 director09@ogs.on.ca, are leaders of this project.
Golden Anniversary Family Histories
For the 25th anniversary, OGS requested family histories and received 620 of them. We are seeking more family histories for our 50th, with a particular request for updates to the histories produced for the 25th. These family histories will join the 3 500 family histories now in our library and will go into our e-Library, ensuring that the histories are never lost and making them available worldwide. Paul McAlister, Director of Region 11 director11@ogs.on.ca, is leader of this project.
Top 50 in 50
We are asking the OGS Branches and Regions to name three or four OGS Members (current or past, including Family and Associate) who have made a significant contribution to Branch/Region/OGS, with a description of their accomplishments. From these proposals we will select the Top 50 as a way to honour those who have worked mostly in the Branches. Don Hinchley, pastpresident@ogs.on.ca is leader of this project.
TONI (The Ontario Name Index)
Indexes, particularly name indexes, are the most valuable thing a genealogical society can produce. We are going to create a single index of Ontario names, indicating where information about that person can be found. The index will go on the public part of the OGS website so that anyone can access it. TONI will show:
First name
Last name
Record type (birth, marriage, death, obit, tombstone, newspaper article, etc, etc)
Date of event, at least to the decade
Location of event, at least the county
Where the full information may be found
OGS currently has over two million names indexed online but not in one index. It will be straightforward to bring TONI to ten million entries and it has the potential to reach fifty million entries. Mike More, Director of Region 8 director08@ogs.on.ca, is leader of this project."
Just to take one feature (Golden Anniversary Family Histories), it is remembered that for their 25th anniversary, OGS requested family histories, and received 620 of them. This number of family histories has since increased to over 3,500 in number. These family histories are in the OGS Library located at the North York Library's Canadiana Section. located on the sixth floor. To celebrate our 50th Anniversary as a Society, we would like to have these histories updated, as well as seek more family histories to add to our library collection.
A number of the current family histories have already been digitized and will be added to our e-Library. This will ensure that the histories are never lost and to make them more accessible to researchers, both locally and worldwide.
In addition, there are a number of family histories located in the libraries of the OGS Branches across the Province that may not be part of the OGS's main library holdings. Where possible, the Branch should be contacted to have these histories updated, as well. It is hoped that a link can be established through their websites.
So as you can see, their is much activity being planned for the OGS' 50th anniversary celebrations. I hope you can join us and partake of these activities.
In case you were not aware, you do not have to be an OGS member to attend the conference. Go to their website for further details.
But if you do wish to join (and we would love to have you), please visit our membership page for membership details (and member advantages).
See you there!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Book Review in Jan/Feb 2011 Family Chronicle Magazine
How delighted I was to open the latest issue of Moorshead Magazine's Family Chronicle and see the book review I did on Janice Nickerson's book, Crime and Punishment in Upper Canada, on page 29.
As I say at the end of the review, "One comes away with the impression that the author has thought long and hard about the importance of research, and has put together a first-rate research guide."
Janice can be reached at janice@uppercanadagenealogy.com
In the May issue of Families, the journal of the Ontario Genealogical Society, and of which I am the editor, there will be an article by Janice on an aspect of crime, plus another review of her book.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Halton Digital Newspaper Archive
L-R: Walter Lewis, Halton Hills Public Library; Bob Crawford, Halton-Peel Branch OGS; Jane Watt, Halton-Peel Branch OGS; Bernie Bradner, Halton-Peel Branch OGS; Mike Payne, Halton-Peel Branch OGSFrom Mr. Bob Crawford, Chair of the Halton-Peel Branch OGS www.halinet.on.ca/sigs/ogshp, comes this big news -
"On Wednesday, January 19, 2011, the Halton Hills Library held the official launch of their segment of the Halton Digital Newspaper Archive. This project was completed using software technologies and hosting by Our Ontario as a service of Knowledge Ontario and the financial support of the Halton-Peel Branch OGS.
A number of years ago, Halton-Peel Branch received a financial bequest from a member with the condition that it be used to provide genealogical resources for people to use in their research. After searching for the best places to use this gift, we decided to support the digitization of the newspapers from the area that is now Halton Hills. This includes newspapers like the Acton Free Press, the Georgetown Herald, the Acton Tanner, the Georgetown Independent, and many others.
The collection is on-line now at http://news.halinet.on.ca/search. There are a few areas that need fixing but it is essentially complete from ca. 1867 to 1967. You can now search this collection of newspapers by word or browse by year or day. Often there are images of the actual page from the newspaper so you can read the full text. The OCR software fails occasionally, but is very good, so there are not many search errors."
Congratulations to Bob, the Branch, and the Halton Hills Library for both the launch and for making this tool available to researchers everywhere. Thanks, also, to Our Ontario and to Knowledge Ontario for their assistance in the fruition of this project, and to the anonymous member, whose financial bequest made it possible.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Mi'kmaq Ancestry
A notice was received from the Halifax Public Library which may be of interest to people with Mi'kmaq (Micmac, formerly) ancestry.
============
Hi everyone,
Have a look at our new resource page on the Mi'kmaq, including images, a beginner guide to genealogy research, resources from our catalogue, digital collections, and a selection of articles from magazines and journals.
http://www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/research/topics/mikmaqresources.html
All the best,
Joanne
Joanne McCarthy
Librarian
Tantallon and JD Shatford Public Libraries
(902) 826-3333 (phone)
(902) 826-3328 (fax)
http://www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca
Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/hfxpublib
Visit us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/hfxpublib
============
Hi everyone,
Have a look at our new resource page on the Mi'kmaq, including images, a beginner guide to genealogy research, resources from our catalogue, digital collections, and a selection of articles from magazines and journals.
http://www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/research/topics/mikmaqresources.html
All the best,
Joanne
Joanne McCarthy
Librarian
Tantallon and JD Shatford Public Libraries
(902) 826-3333 (phone)
(902) 826-3328 (fax)
http://www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca
Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/hfxpublib
Visit us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/hfxpublib
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Clarification of OGS Fee Increase
January 13, 2011
Erroneous Publication of an OGS Fee Increase
Just after the holidays, there was an erroneous statement published on a private blog that is causing concern. It was claimed that there is discussion within the Society of a further fee increase and that there was a notion to require OGS members to also be a member of their local branch.
On behalf of the Board and the Executive, I would like to inform our members that neither of these ideas has been discussed at this time.
As one of the Board's responsibilities, fees are discussed at least once a year. Any fee increase recommended must then be approved by the membership. The Board is not recommending a change to the fee structure for 2011. The fee will remain the same as in 2010.
As to requiring members to be a member of their local branch, this has not been recommended nor discussed.
I hope that this explanation clarifies all concerns. If there are any further questions regarding this matter, please feel free to contact me (president@ogs.on.ca) or the Executive Director (ed@ogs.on.ca).
Sincerely,
Nancy Trimble,
President, Ontario Genealogical Society
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Crouse-Wanamaker Lecture
For more, please visit the Quinte Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society at www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~canqbogs
Monday, January 10, 2011
Update – The Canada Gazette (1841-1997)
On Monday, the Library and Archives Canada (LAC) commemorated the 170th anniversary of The Canada Gazette by making accessible the digitized back issues on its website dedicated to this official publication. The website is
http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/canada-gazette/index-e.html.
A Nation's Chronicle: The Canada Gazette is also available at http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/canada-gazette/index.
The press release says that it is often referred to as “the official newspaper of the Government of Canada.”
It goes on to say that "It has informed Canadians of the operations of government and encouraged them to participate in the legislative process".
The database is searched by keywords (for example – keywords such as divorce, immigration and naturalization), and not by a person's name.
For example, from 1867 to 1968, the website says that "a person wishing to obtain a divorce was first required to place a notice of intent to petition the government for an Act of Divorce in the Canada Gazette and in two newspapers in the district or county where the petitioner resided. It was to appear for a six-month period".
An explanation of the Divorce Laws in Canada is given at http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/genealogy/022-906.008-e.html.
Here is a sample of the divorce records found in the Canada Gazette - -
NOTICE is hereby given that Dame Beatrice Evelyn Tutill, housewife, of the City and District of Montreal, in the Province of Quebec, wife of Walter Joseph Bobineky, taxi driver, of the City of Montreal and District of Montreal, in the Province of Quebec, will' apply to the Parliament of Canada, at the next or following session thereof, for a bill of divorce from her husband, the said
Walter Joseph Bobinsky, on the ground of adultery.
Dated at Montreal, in the Province of Quebec, this 9th day of July, 1947 .
N. W. JACOBS,
Solicitor for the Applicant
Source: DA Nation's Chronicle: The Canada Gazette, Library and Archives Canada. APPLICATIONS FOR DIVORCE Part I (1947-1997), volume 81, number 30, 26 July 1947, p. 7
A website about Citizenship and Naturalization at the Library and Archives Canada is at http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/genealogy/022-908.011-e.html.
An example from The Canada Gazette on naturalization is -
Vmldcroecn, Clarence-certification of naturalization No.72000, seriee A, granted at Ottawa, Ontario, on July 28, 1930.
Source: A Nation's Chronicle: The Canada Gazette, Library and Archives. Canada DEPARTMENT OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE OF CANADA,THE CANADIAN Citizenship ACT Part I (1947-1997), volume 83, number 29, 16 July 1949, p. 4
http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/canada-gazette/index-e.html.
A Nation's Chronicle: The Canada Gazette is also available at http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/canada-gazette/index.
The press release says that it is often referred to as “the official newspaper of the Government of Canada.”
It goes on to say that "It has informed Canadians of the operations of government and encouraged them to participate in the legislative process".
The database is searched by keywords (for example – keywords such as divorce, immigration and naturalization), and not by a person's name.
For example, from 1867 to 1968, the website says that "a person wishing to obtain a divorce was first required to place a notice of intent to petition the government for an Act of Divorce in the Canada Gazette and in two newspapers in the district or county where the petitioner resided. It was to appear for a six-month period".
An explanation of the Divorce Laws in Canada is given at http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/genealogy/022-906.008-e.html.
Here is a sample of the divorce records found in the Canada Gazette - -
NOTICE is hereby given that Dame Beatrice Evelyn Tutill, housewife, of the City and District of Montreal, in the Province of Quebec, wife of Walter Joseph Bobineky, taxi driver, of the City of Montreal and District of Montreal, in the Province of Quebec, will' apply to the Parliament of Canada, at the next or following session thereof, for a bill of divorce from her husband, the said
Walter Joseph Bobinsky, on the ground of adultery.
Dated at Montreal, in the Province of Quebec, this 9th day of July, 1947 .
N. W. JACOBS,
Solicitor for the Applicant
Source: DA Nation's Chronicle: The Canada Gazette, Library and Archives Canada. APPLICATIONS FOR DIVORCE Part I (1947-1997), volume 81, number 30, 26 July 1947, p. 7
A website about Citizenship and Naturalization at the Library and Archives Canada is at http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/genealogy/022-908.011-e.html.
An example from The Canada Gazette on naturalization is -
Vmldcroecn, Clarence-certification of naturalization No.72000, seriee A, granted at Ottawa, Ontario, on July 28, 1930.
Source: A Nation's Chronicle: The Canada Gazette, Library and Archives. Canada DEPARTMENT OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE OF CANADA,THE CANADIAN Citizenship ACT Part I (1947-1997), volume 83, number 29, 16 July 1949, p. 4
Friday, January 7, 2011
Lambton Lifeline - December 2010
Lambton Lifeline is the newsletter of the Lambton Branch of the OGS, is published four times a year (March, June, Sept and Dec). The editor, Alan Campbell, can be reached at campbeal@sympatico.ca.In the issue (December 2010), the members of the Sycamore Lodge No. 151 (IOOF), instituted at Arkona on 24 November, 1874, has been transcribed by Linda Koolen.
It gives their name, their occupation, where they worked, how old they were, and when they were born. It even has a column for comments, of which there are some.
A letter from Melissa Gadsgy to Alfred Zavitz talking about their wedding to take place soon, sent the Lambton Branch on a hunt to find out who these people were, and the results are quite interesting.
The Petrolia Topic (the local newsletter) provides two articles - the first one about the First World War, and the second article is about Petrolia and Area Events.
The remainder of the newsletter concerns a new website, notices, and letters to the editor.
If you wish more information, please visit their website at www.lambton.ogs.on.ca.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
BRANTches - November 2010
BRANTches is the publication of the Brant County Ontario Genealogy Society, and its editor is Christine Woodcock.
In the latest edition (November 2010) of the newsletter, it was noted that the September meeting saw Misty DeMeo of the County of Brant Library System give a talk on the digitization project. The first part of the project involved scanning documents and photographs of all kinds, and the second part will involve personal memories and family history.
The October meeting was a 2-day affair which saw the Branch host the British Home Child Memorial Quit Display and the British Home Child Descendants Reunion. By all accounts, it was a great success.
There are many photos of the day in the newsletter, and there were display tables showing the homes were the Home Children in the put when they first came to Canada - Fegan Homes, Barnardo Homes, Miss Marie Rye, Middlemore Homes, MacPherson Homes, National Children's Homes, St. George's Homes, and Quarrier Homes.
There is also an articles on "How to Create a GEDCOM File", "New Books in Our Library", "From the Library Shelf", and "The Adventures of a Ten Dollar Bill: How I Tore Down My Brickwall" in which the editor tells how she found her great-grandfather and great-uncle.
To find out more about the Brant Branch, please visit www.brantcountybranchogs.ca.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
The Ottawa Genealogist - Nov/Dec 2010
The Ottawa Genealogist is is now published four times a year by the Ottawa Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society www.ogsottawa.on.ca. The editor is Edward Kipp, and he can be reached at editor@ogsottawa.on.ca. The Branch recently switched to an electronic version, with the paper-bound edition now an option.
In the November/December 2010 edition is an article by Elizabeth Kipp about blogging called, "Blogging - sharing genealogy in a different way".
In the article, Elizabeth tells how and why she set up a blog to describe her research trip to Salt Lake City, and posted to it on quite a regular basis while she was there.
Her blog address is kippeeb.blogspot.com.
Meanwhile, her husband and fellow genealogist, Edward Kipp, tells us about "Jones Falls and Col. By".
He gives a history of the Falls, and on page 157 and 158 are pictures of the dam at Jones Locks, and on page 160, there are sources as well as pictures of the Locks, painted in the middle 1800s.
There are two articles from The Ottawa Citizen called the "Old-Time Stuff" (the first article is called "Col. By instituted Toll Gates Here; in '28 Put Tax on the First Bridge" October 18, 1824, and the second article "Where the Soldiers Lived on Barrack Hill" published March 23, 1924).
Other articles and features include the "Electronic Notebook" by Mike More, "Gleanings from Newsletters in the Ottawa Branch library" by Heather Oakley, and "John Thorton, Charles Waterston, and William Wilson" by Robert Serre.
All-in-all, an interesting read, as usual.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Three Years and Counting!
Dear Readers,It's hard to believe that time flies by so quickly, but here we are, three years later, having launched our blog http://genealogycanada.blogspot.com on January 2nd, 2008!
Check out our first post at http://genealogycanada.blogspot.com/2008/01/welcome-to-genealogy-canada-blog.html
And if you want to see what we've posted over the years, drop by our Blog Archives (see the link at the right-side of the screen) and surprise yourself at what you may find.
Thank you for visiting, and for your continued support.
Happy blogging!
Elizabeth
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Sault Channels Newsletter
A newsletter of the Sault Ste. Marie Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society (OGS), Sault Channels is published quarterly, and edited by Arthur Manley saultchannels@shaw.ca.
The first couple of pages are taken up by the talks given by the speakers -
In September, Rev. Mal Binks, an Anglican priest at the Church of St. John the Evangelist, talked about how his and his wife's family came to Canada in 1870.
In October, Cathy Blackburn (Region IX Director) discussed "Peeking Under Grandpa's Kilt" and about the many trips he made to Scotland researching the family name of Wilcox.
In November, John Parniak talked about Eastern Europe research - especially back to Galicia, where his Ukrainian/Polish family is from.
In the December issue, there is a rather lengthy article written by Colleen Ray on the Tweedsmuir Histories, and the history of Ansonia, and places along the north shore of Lake Huron.
They have continued with two articles taken from the Sault Daily Star, a newspaper in the community of Sault Ste. Marie. The first article is from the June 16, 1936 issue by Dan McDonald in which the author talks to many of the old settlers of the area. He continued on in another article dated July 9, 1935, talking to the some of the first settlers to the area.
The rest of the newsletter is taken up by notices, a report from the Branch Executive Workshop—which took place in September in Toronto—and news about the OGS Cruise that will leave New York City on September 10th for New England, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick.
If you wish more information about the Sault Ste. Marie & District Branch, please visit their website at www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~onogsssm.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Congratulations, Terry Punch!
A press release dated December 3oth states that Terry Punch, a former history teacher and a genealogist from Nova Scotia, will receive a membership to the Order of Canada from His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, later this year.
I first met Terry in Ottawa during a Gene-O-Rama Conference in 1993, although I had listened to his monthly appearances on the CBC Halifax station for a number of years.
He was on for the full half-hour, and would take phone calls (he still does) from all over the Atlantic Provinces.
Besides being the author of many books (he wrote the basic book on genealogy in Nova Scotia — Genealogical Research in Nova Scotia — ISBN 1-55109-235-2), he was one of the founders of the Genealogical Institute of the Maritimes, and one of the longest members of the Association of Nova Scotia Genealogists.
So to see that he will receive one of the country's highest civilian honours is well-deserved.
The Order of Canada was established in 1967, during Canada's centennial year, to recognize a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to community, and service to the nation. Over the last 40 years, more than 5,000 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order.
I first met Terry in Ottawa during a Gene-O-Rama Conference in 1993, although I had listened to his monthly appearances on the CBC Halifax station for a number of years.
He was on for the full half-hour, and would take phone calls (he still does) from all over the Atlantic Provinces.
Besides being the author of many books (he wrote the basic book on genealogy in Nova Scotia — Genealogical Research in Nova Scotia — ISBN 1-55109-235-2), he was one of the founders of the Genealogical Institute of the Maritimes, and one of the longest members of the Association of Nova Scotia Genealogists.
So to see that he will receive one of the country's highest civilian honours is well-deserved.
The Order of Canada was established in 1967, during Canada's centennial year, to recognize a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to community, and service to the nation. Over the last 40 years, more than 5,000 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order.
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