Ancestral Findings - Genealogy Podcast

Do you know how to determine cousin relationships? It’s easier than you may imagine. All you have to do is remember to count generations from the most recent set of cousins in your family tree that match up in the same generation and count the generations to you (or anyone else in your family tree). Here is how to do it.

Family Bibles are some of the most unique and valuable genealogical resources available. If your immediate family doesn’t have one, you might not understand just how important they can be to your research. Here is why they are such genealogical gems, and how to track one down that pertains to your family.

If you are at a genealogical brick wall, consider looking for distant relatives to help you break through it. Who are distant relatives, and what information might they have to benefit your research? How do you find them and contact them? Here is what you need to know.

Interviewing older family members is a basic part of beginning genealogy research. If you have access to these relatives, interviewing them for their unique take on the past and the ancestors who lived in it is so important. You don’t want those stories to be lost. However, some relatives may not want to talk, and some may go off-topic a lot in an interview. Here is how to get the best out of both types of older relatives.

Are your female ancestors a mystery? It’s not uncommon. While you may know the first name of a female ancestor, finding their maiden name and birth family can sometimes be a challenge. Here are some tips to get you past this incredibly common genealogical issue, and find your female ancestors at last.

He is a true unsung hero of the Civil War who was born into slavery, he gained his freedom with support from his former masters, became a businessman and leader of his community, married, had children, and was one of the first African-American soldiers killed in battle in the Civil War. His story of heroism was well-known for decades, but now largely forgotten. Tune in today to learn more about his remarkable story.

Finnish surnames are interesting. The Finnish language is unique, and the country itself has an intriguing and varied history that ties it closely to both Sweden and Russia. If you have a Finnish surname, or there is one in your family tree, tune in today to learn about the origin and meaning of Finnish surnames.

He was an African-American Civil War soldier, politician, businessman, and humanitarian who rescued his family from slavery in one of the most daring escapes of the Civil War. A respected man of his time, he was a hero and a leader in many different ways, both in the war and after it. Tune in for this incredible story.

If you are looking for something historic, educational, and just plain fun for the whole family, consider a day out at Marblehead Lighthouse State Park. This park is centered around the historic Marblehead Lighthouse, but there is so much more to do and see there. Here is what you need to know about the park, as well as its storied history.

This is an unsung hero of the Civil War because he was present for all of it, a leader in most of it, and commander of the whole Army of the Potomac for a brief part of it. Yet, his work and bravery are not well-remembered today. Join me today on the Ancestral Findings Podcast to learn more about his remarkable story.

If you have a Scandinavian surname or have one or more of them in your family tree, you will be interested in knowing the history of these surnames, as they tell an interesting part of the story of your ancestors. Join me today on the Ancestral Findings Podcast and I’ll talk about the origins and meanings of the most common surnames in Norway, Denmark, and Sweden.

Prickett's Fort State Park is a wonderful historical resource to the state of West Virginia. It not only shows how life was like for English settlers on the West Virginian frontier in the 1700s, but it also provides wonderful and ample opportunities for fun-filled outdoor family recreation and even cultural entertainment. Join me today on the Ancestral Findings Podcast and I’ll give you what you need to know to enjoy your visit to this beautiful and important historical park.

She is well-known as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, but not as well-known for her exemplary Civil War service as a nurse, scout, and spy for the Union. Join me today on the Ancestral Findings Podcast for her remarkable and amazing story.

Do you have Dutch surnames in your family tree, or is your own surname of Dutch origin? Join me today on the Ancestral Findings Podcast and I’ll show you that knowing the meaning and origin of Dutch surnames can tell you more about your ancestors than you may imagine.

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