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From Eastman's Online Genealogy Newsletter, 12 December 2009, regarding our 2009 Fall Seminar Speaker, Michael John Neill:

Michael John Neill's New Casefile Clues
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Casefilesclues_logo If you have been reading this newsletter for some time, you may remember Michael John Neill's series of articles that were published here, called "Casefile Clues." Michael has now moved on to expand his writing on his own web site and email newsletter, which is also appropriately titled "Casefile Clues." Michael is now publishing more articles than ever.

Michael is an expert in genealogy research methodology. He finds the logical results in difficult research tasks, sometimes seeking out seemingly illogical answers that turn out to be the truth. He always analyzes the reasons "why" a document was made and how it "fits" into the question at hand. He uses examples that will benefit the rest of us, making us all better genealogists. What I like best about Michael's articles is his style of writing: easy to read and understand. No mumbo-jumbo here! Michael writes in plain English for all of us.

Each article in the Casefile Clues web site analyzes a specific document, a record type, or a focus person. He analyzes the citations to encourage documentation and often looks for clues that are not so obvious. Included at the end of each article is a research plan or a "where do I go next?" series of steps.

If you liked Michael's articles in the EOGN newsletter, I would encourage you to look at his newest offerings. Recent articles include:

  • Analyzing Pre-1850 Census Records
  • Connecting two Different Iras
  • A 1913 Chicago Birth
  • Tracking a Potential Sister
  • Civil War Pension Analysis
  • US Passport Applications
Casefile Clues is a subscription-based weekly newsletter, sent by email. You subscribe on the web site, and then each new edition of the newsletter arrives weekly as a PDF file in your email in-box. A one year subscription costs $15, and a three-month subscription is available for $6.

Michael is a genealogy expert, a prolific writer, and a great source of information. I'd suggest you investigate his Casefile Clues newsletter. You can learn more at http://www.casefileclues.com. The subscription form for the safe and secure online order process via PayPal is available at http://www.casefileclues.com/subscribe.html.

I just subscribed to Casefile Clues. I'd suggest you do the same. If you are looking for a perfect gift for a genealogy friend, I'd suggest you give a subscription to Casefile Clues. Has someone on a mailing list helped you in the past year? Think about giving them a subscription to Casefile Clues.

13 December 2009

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From an e-mail from Claire Bettag on the Association of Professional Genealogists Members mailing list, dated 4 Dec 2009:

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) Renovation

Dear researchers,

Proposed renovations at the National Archives will affect all NARA researchers. As you have probably heard, if the changes materialize, some research space at the downtown facility will be converted to offices, exhibits, and other uses, and research services will have to be reconfigured. To assure that research resources are enhanced, rather than diminished, we again appeal—urgently--for your help.

Several notices have circulated about an extremely important congressional subcommittee hearing later this month. The hearing of the Subcommittee on Information Policy, Census, and National Archives, which oversees NARA, will examine the National Archives mission. The proposed changes at Archives-1 will be discussed. The new Archivist of the United States, David Ferriero, will testify.

This is our opportunity to voice concerns and priorities to congressional leaders. Please participate by 1) writing to the members of the subcommittee (details below); and 2) attending the hearing if you are in the Washington DC area (details below).

  1. CONTACT SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBERS: It is critical that we contact every member of the subcommittee in advance, to 1) encourage them to attend and participate in the meeting, 2) to express our concerns, and 3) to urge them to make researcher services a priority. Please take time now to send each of them a note. It is especially important for constituents of the subcommittee members to contact those members. (See below for list of subcommittee members, and suggestions for writing.)
  2. ATTEND THE HEARING: If you are in the Washington DC area on 16 December, please attend the hearing. Members of Congress take careful note of attendance at such hearings. A well-attended meeting will communicate that researchers care about what happens at NARA.Wednesday, 16 December 2009; 2 p.m. Rayburn House Office Building, room 2154 ALSO, if you are in the DC area, a public meeting will be held the following day, 17 December 2009, at 1:00 p.m. at NARA specifically to discuss the proposed changes. If you can make that meeting also, please put it on your calendar.
SUGGESTIONS FOR WRITING TO SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBERS:

  • Keep your message to one page.
  • At the TOP of thee message, identify your reason for writing. For example: “Re: Information Policy Subcommittee Hearing on National Archives, December 16.”
  • If at all possible, write an individualized letter (you can cite some issues below, or add others; a sample letter appears below).
  • Contact each member only once about the hearing.
  • Be succinct. Readers should be able to read and understood the message in one minute. Specify your request in the first or second sentence. In another two or three sentences explain how important it is for the member to attend and participate in the hearing.
  • Specify if you are writing as an individual or representing a group.
Issues you may wish to address (among others you might include):
  • Renovations at Archives-1 (downtown) should aim to make it a world-class research facility.
  • Reconsider decisions already made (on the Constitution side of the building) so the result will optimally serve the public and researchers without compromising the latter.
  • Upgrade services, personnel, hardware, and software to bring the research facility in line with other first-rate research facilities in the world.
How to contact subcommittee members:
  • If you live in a member’s district, use the “Write your Representative” site, which provides direct email contact for constituents. Users enter a state +zip code. Use this link: http://www.house.gov/writerep/
  • To contact other members, use email if an address appears below (many do not provide email addresses for non-constituents). Otherwise FAX letters. Do not use USPS mail as postal delivery to congressional offices takes very long. (See below.)
  • If you represent an organization, follow up with a reminder fax the morning of December 15.

SUBCOMMITTEE



Clay, William Lacy D MO, 1st D. Chairman Phone: (202) 225-2406
Fax: (202) 226-3717
Kanjorski, Paul D PA, 11th D.
phone: 202-225-6511
fax (202) 225-0764
Maloney, Carolyn D NY, 14th D.
http://tinyurl.com/yzfttfn
fax: 202-225-4709
Norton, Eleanor Holmes D DC
phone: (202) 225-8050
fax: (202) 225-3002
Davis, Danny D Chicago, 7D.
http://tinyurl.com/yzs8gl6
fax (202) 225-5641
Driehaus, Steve D OH, 1st D.
http://tinyurl.com/yz637fg
Fax: (202) 225-3012
Watson, Diane D CA, 33rd D.
phone: 202-225-7084
fax: 202-225-2422
Cuellar, Henry D TX, 28th D.
phone: 202-225-1640
fax: 202-225-1641
McHenry, Patrick R NC, 10th D Ranking minority phone: 202.225.2576
Fax: 202.225.0316
Westmoreland, Lynn R GA, 3rd D. Vice Ranking minority Phone (202) 225-5901
Fax (202) 225-2515
Mica, John R FL, 7th D.
http://tinyurl.com/y9bxwuf
Fax: (202) 226-0821
Chaffetz, Jason R UT, 3rd D.
Phone: (202) 225-7751
Fax: (202) 225-5629


SAMPLE LETTER (PLEASE VARY AND PERSONALIZE)
Date

Addressee / address

Re: Information Policy Subcommittee Hearing on National Archives, December 16

Dear ______:

The proposed renovation at the National Archives (Washington, DC facility) is a major concern for all researchers. As [a frequent researcher at NARA, a representative of…] I hope the work being considered will result in upgraded, enhanced research facilities that make it a world-class research facility. Many of us are worried that some changes appear to aggrandize exhibits, the gift shop, and other tourist attractions in the building at the expense of resources serving researchers.

First and foremost, the public documents preserved at NARA should be made accessible to scholars, historians, educators, journalists, artists, family historians, scientists, and other researchers—via up-to-date technology, facilities, and expert archival assistance. In your oversight role, please assure that this is the top priority as renovations proceed. I hope you will be at the subcommittee meeting and take an active role in the proceedings. [I plan to attend the hearing.]

Congressional oversight and support for research services is critical if NARA is to remain a renowned research institution, fulfilling its mission to the American public, and in line with similar facilities in other countries.

Thank you, in advance, for your support. If you wish additional information, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

NAME / AFFILIATION (IF ANY)

----------------

THANK YOU!

***********************************************

For background information about the proposed changes at NARA, see these messages and letters written by Marie Varrelman Melchiori, CG, CGL, of Melchiori Research Services, L.L.C.:

 "Ref: Archives I Building Renovation Plan November 10, 2009 Meeting with John Bartell, Architect

Plans are underway to renovate the National Archives I building. On November 10 the architect in charge of the project met with the Consultant/Finding Room Aids staff to discuss the plans. Two researchers were also present. He explained the renovation was initiated because of the need to enlarge the indoor waiting area for visitors of the National Archives Museum. The current gift shop, some offices, and other spaces will be re-located and redesigned to accomplish that, affecting research space in the building, including the Microfilm Reading Room. Work has just started on designs.

Some of the points presented were:
  • An open forum meeting will be held with renovation planners/architects and researchers, probably in early December (date to be determined).
  • The project will be done in phases. The preliminary phase involves moving offices, reconfiguring the Finding Aids Room, and consolidating the microfilm reading room into a much smaller space. Construction will not start until after the public meeting, but an exact timetable has not been set. Renovations on the museum side may start in the spring or fall of 2010. Plans have been fluid and will no doubt undergo many more renditions.
  • The Finding Aids Room will remain where it is currently located, but with some changes. Staff will be involved in the redesign of the space.
  • A “Research Corridor” will be built on the east end of the entrance lobby. Space currently used for lockers, lecture room, and offices will be reconfigured to serve researcher needs. Plans for the “Research Corridor” have not yet been drawn.
  • The research corridor will hold microfilm readers, readers/copiers, computer access terminals, and a classroom. Microfilm will be consolidated into a smaller space, and it will be self-serve.
  • Upgraded electrical systems may be included to accommodate more copiers in the Central Research Room on the 2nd floor, and perhaps, in the future, Wi-Fi.
  • In the public side of the building, plans include computer terminals hooked up to ancestry.com for tourists to briefly use to learn what is available in the research wing of the building. The renovation plans should address and provide for increased use of microfilmed and original records, by tourists seeking information on their ancestors after visiting the museum.

Marie

Marie Varrelman Melchiori, CG, CGL
Melchiori Research Services, L.L.C.
---------------------------------------------------------------
CG, Certified Genealogist and CGL, Certified Genealogical Lecturer are service marks of the Board for Certification of Genealogists, used under license by Board-certified associates after periodic competency evaluations."



"As member of the [insert your organization name], I am a researcher who uses National Archives records. I am very concerned about proposed construction plans to reconfigure the ground (first) floor of the National Archives building. This will dramatically reduce the Robert M. Warner Research Center in ways that will significantly--and negatively--impact researchers as follows:

The Finding Aids Room (Consultants' Office) is to be moved from its current room, which provides adequate space for staff, researchers, and necessary finding aids to textual (un-filmed) records, to a small open area in the library which will not provide adequate working space or privacy.

The Microfilm Reading Room will be moved to a drastically smaller space (the current Finding Aids Room) with significantly fewer microfilm readers. We recognize that the number of researchers using the microfilm area has diminished over the past few years, but there is still a demand to use microfilm. We suggest a room containing at least 30 readers, which would be approximately half the current number.

Direct researcher access to microfilm collections will be eliminated and replaced with a "pull on demand" system. We believe it is unworkable, and result in much wasted researcher time by requiring researchers to request individual rolls of microfilm, and then wait for a staff member to retrieve it from a stack area deep within the building. No one has been able to tell us where the microfilm will be stored or how long it will take to retrieve it.

The Lecture Room will be eliminated. No one has been able to tell us where a New Lecture Room would be. This room is used frequently for NARA public programs (genealogy lectures, etc.) as well as internal NARA meetings.

The Orientation and Registration area would be eliminated.This is currently used for researcher registration, to issue researcher identification cards, and for researcher consultations with staff members and volunteers, and for researcher access to computers. No one has been able to tell us where these functions would be moved.

NARA proposes a five-phase operation with the first phase being the move of the Finding Aids (Consultants' Office) the Library area starting in the very near future. There is no indication that the finding aids, so vital to textual research, will be in close proximity to the consultant area. The second phase would be the move of the microfilm reading room.

Those areas, once vacated, will be taken over by Center for the National Archives Experience (NWE) and The Foundation for the National Archives to expand their museum and shops. <http://www.archives.gov/nae/support>

I would like a dedicated (i.e., single use) Finding Aids Room to continue and to maintain the existing manner of direct researcher access (self-pull) to microfilm.

I would like to request that there be an open disclosure and a public discussion of these plans. There does not appear to be any attempt to incorporate the open area in the Research Center Lobby.Thank you for your consideration."


For NARA's response to these letters, see their press release of 22 October at http://www.archives.gov/press/press-releases/2010/nr10-10.html.

5 December 2009


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From an e-mail from Lisa Reale of the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, dated 2 Dec 2009:

HeritageQuest Online added to BadgerLink!

The Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning has added ProQuest’s HeritageQuest Online to BadgerLink (http://www.BadgerLink.net) as of December 1, 2009. HeritageQuest Online is a comprehensive treasury of American genealogical sources—rich in unique primary sources, local and family histories, and finding aids.

18th Century or 20th Century. European or Native American. Farm or Factory. East Coast or West Coast. Where does your American past begin?

Discover the amazing history of you with HeritageQuest Online. It delivers an essential collection of genealogical and historical sources—with coverage dating back to the 1700s—that can help people find their ancestors and discover a place’s past.

The collection consists of six core data sets:

U.S. Federal Censuses feature the original images of every extant federal census in the United States, from 1790 through 1930, with name indexes for many decades. In total the collection covers more than 140 million names.

Genealogy and local history books deliver more than 7 million digitized page images from over 26,000 family histories, local histories, and other books. Titles have been digitized from our own renowned microform collections, as well from the American Antiquarian Society via an exclusive partnership.

Periodical Source Index (PERSI), published by the Allen County Public Library, is recognized as the most comprehensive index genealogy and local history periodicals. It contains more than 2 million records covering titles published around the world since 1800.

Revolutionary War records contains original images from pension and bounty land warrant application files help to identify more than 80,000 American Army, Navy, and Marine officers and enlisted men from the Revolutionary War era.

Freedman’s Bank Records, with more than 480,000 names of bank applicants, their dependents, and heirs from 1865–1874, offers valuable data that can provide important clues to tracing African American ancestors prior to and immediately after the Civil War.

LexisNexis U.S. Serial Set records the memorials, petitions, private relief actions made to the U.S. Congress back to 1789, with a total of more than 480,000 pages of information. The U.S. Serial Set is not available to academic libraries according to the ProQuest contract with LexisNexis. Therefore, academic libraries will not be able to utilize this portion of HeritageQuest, while all other portions are available.

BadgerLink is a project of the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI), Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning. Its goal is to provide access to quality online information resources for Wisconsin residents. Users can search approximately 20,000 full-text magazines, journals, newspapers, reference materials and other specialized information sources. Included are over 8,000 full text magazines and journals, over 1,500 newspapers and newswires, and approximately 6,800 full text books. Full text articles are taken from 2,900 historical newspaper titles. In addition the BadgerLink vendors provide access to automobile repair manuals, company profiles, country economic reports, industrial reports and yearbooks, biographies, primary historical documents, charts, images, schematics, maps, poems, essays, speeches, plays, short stories, author audio programs and book readings, author video programs, book reviews or discussion guides, and many other full text resources not available through regular internet search engines. The project is funded through the Universal Service Fund with support for staffing provided by the Library Services and Technology Act funds received from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Lisa Reale
BadgerLink Coordinator

2 December 2009
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From a press release from the National Genealogical Society, dated 20 Nov 2009:

The Joys Of Genealogy and the Benefits Of Membership in the National Genealogical Society

ARLINGTON, VA, NOVEMBER 20, 2009: The National Genealogical Society announces the release of Paths to Your Past, a twelve-minute video documentary available online and on DVD, in which noted genealogists and family researchers tell why they are passionate about researching their family history.

Whether you have been researching your family history for a number of years or you are just beginning, membership in the National Genealogical Society has something for you, including publications, educational courses, and an annual conference. View the video online at http://www.ngsgenealogy.org at the Videos and Publications tab to learn about the benefits of membership. By discovering your family history you learn about the struggles and accomplishments of your ancestors that molded your family values and influenced who you are today.

Paths to Your Past was produced by award-winning cinematographer Allen Moore at the NGS Family History Conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, in May 2009 and on location at the National Archives, the Alexandria (Virginia) Library, the Maryland Historical Society, and other research sites.

The National Genealogical Society also offers a companion publication, Paths to Your Past, which provides an overview of how to begin your family research or, for intermediate-level genealogists, a review of sources and methodology. The fifty-page soft cover book or a downloadable PDF version can be purchased online at the NGS Store (http://www.ngsgenealogy.org).

The National Genealogical Society was founded in 1903 and is the largest national organization for all family researchers, including beginner, intermediate, and professional genealogists, interested in expanding their research skills and preserving their family history for future generations.

[The video itself is located at http://www.ngsgenealogy.org/cs/paths_to_your_past.]

20 November 2009

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Reprinted from an e-mail from Eric G. Grundset, Library Director, DAR Library, dated 18 Nov 2009:

NEW and FREE Online Databases from the DAR, Washington, D.C.

After nearly a decade of scanning, indexing, and other behind-the-scenes work by DAR members and employees, the Daughters of the American Revolution is pleased to announce the availability of the DAR Genealogical Research System on our public website. Here are the direct links:

http://www.dar.org/library/online_research.cfm or www.dar.org (and click on the Library button at the top, then the second tab in the left-hand column).

The GRS is a growing collection of databases that provide access to many materials collected by the DAR over the past 119 years. Included in this collection of databases is the GRC National Index which has been available to researchers for the past few years. There are still some kinks we’re working out here and there.

When you go to the link above, you will find several tabs that will enable searching in the various databases:

Ancestor – established DAR Revolutionary War Ancestors and basic information about them with listings of the applications submitted by descendants who joined the DAR [updated daily]

Member – limited access to information on deceased/former DAR members – not current members.

Descendants – index of generations in applications between the DAR member and the Revolutionary War ancestor. There is much eighteenth and nineteenth-century information here. [ongoing indexing project]

GRC – everyname index to 20,000 typescript volumes (some still being indexed) of genealogical records such as cemeteries, Bibles, etc. This index is not limited to the period of the American Revolution at all.

Resources [In particular, the digitized DAR Library Revolutionary Pension Extract Card Index and the Analytical Index Cards. Other information sources will be coming in the near future, mostly relating to Revolutionary War service, bibliographies, Forgotten Patriots (updates), etc. Read the introductions to these to learn why these are both important genealogical indexes. For example, the Rev. War pension index includes the names of people mentioned in those pensions that were abstracted (not just the pensioner or widow)!!!!]

Library Catalog – our book, periodical, and manuscript holdings

Each of these has interrelated content, and a description of each is given more fully on the website. You will notice restricted information in many search results. This is the result of a concerted effort to protect the identity of our members while providing historical genealogical information to researchers.

The national numbers of members (without the names of living members) given in the search results are needed to order copies of applications and supplemental applications. They do not lead online researchers to any other information about the member.

Please pass this information on to your researchers.

Eric

Eric G. Grundset
Library Director
DAR Library
National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
1776 D Street, N. W.
Washington, DC 20006-5303
egrundset@dar.org
202-879-3313

20 November 2009





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