Over the years, I have found that two enjoyable aspects to researching my family have been meeting distant cousins that are also into genealogy and getting the chance to trade our research. I have often been surprised by how close genealogy can bring two people together, that would otherwise just be considered strangers. My research […]
Located on the banks of the James River in Charles City County, Va., is the Berkeley Plantation, a three-story brick mansion with a lot of history. Built by Benjamin Harrison IV, it is the birthplace of descendants Benjamin Harrison V, a signer of the Declaration of Independence; William Henry Harrison, the ninth president of the […]
Today it is almost impossible to find a channel without a show that revolves around the paranormal. Every time we turn around there’s a new series that shadows a paranormal group as they investigate unexplained sights and sounds under the green glow of an infrared camera. Armed with an assortment of gadgets, the investigators claim […]
For those of us with Celtic heritage (myself included), traditions are of paramount importance. Along with stubborn streaks, sentimentality, and tempers that go from slow burn to high octane in no time, the Celts are a band of people who like to be in control and to know what’s coming next. Which could also explain […]
As with many family histories, there are stories that are handed down through generations; tales that seem to grow toward fact with every passing year. Often times, there is no proof or documents to support the anecdotes, but they are woven as truths just the same. My own family is not immune to this phenomenon, […]
July 20, 1969 six hundred million people worldwide sat glued to their televisions watching as Neil Armstrong emerged from Apollo 11. Making his way down the ladder, Armstrong’s feet finally made contact with the moon’s surface. What followed were his famous words, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind”. Joined by […]
Summer is typically the time for blockbuster movies to urge us to come in droves to dark, air conditioned theaters for a little escapism. In the spirit of history, I’ve selected three movies from my own vault to review that may help renew your interest in research and genealogy. Who knows, maybe some of your […]
You’ve just spent the day with your extended family at your annual reunion. Full of food and anecdotes, you blithely agree to research a seven times great aunt who supposedly was a seamstress alongside Betsy Ross. Full of inspiration, you begin searching through records on the internet, as well as handwritten notes, letters, pictures, and […]
WWII Golf Rules. Would you have had the guts to continue playing?
Summer is here, and for some it means sun-kissed days, nightlights lit by lighting bugs ( or fireflies, depending on your region of the country), and relaxed schedules. And for many, there are travel plans in the works; a much anticipated trip to get away from routine and to enjoy some different scenery. Summer can […]
