Category: Researcher

Galbraiths of Donegal

The Galbraith name, with its various spellings (Calbreath, Colbath, Colbreath, Galberth, Galbreath, Galbreth, Gilbraith, Gilbreath, Gilbreth, Gilreath, Kilbreath, Kilbreth, Kulbeth), carries a rich history. My journey to uncover the origins of my Galbraith ancestors has been a fascinating exploration of genealogy, leading me back to the rugged Scottish Highlands and the early days of colonial America.

According to historical accounts, the Galbraiths have deep roots in Scotland, tracing back to the “Parish of Baldunoch” in Stirling.1 One source describes them as “Britons, or the children of Briton,” a testament to their ancient lineage.2

Culcreuch Castle

In Fintry, Stirlingshire, Scotland was recently a hotel, now a private residence, but once was the ancestral home of Clan Galbraith; built in 1296. This castle replaced the clan stronghold of Inchgalbraith in Loch Lomond. Other Galbraith castles included Gartconnel, Balgair, Balvie, Bannachra, Bardowie, Barskimming, Craigmaddie, Garscadden, Mains, as well as Kincaid House. All were located between Stirling and Glasgow. ~From the Clan Galbraith Society

My own Galbraith line begins with Martha, my 3rd great-grandmother, born around 1800. She married John Stitt in 1817, and their family continued the Galbraith legacy.3

Research reveals a proud military tradition within the family. Martha’s father, John Galbraith, was likely born in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.4 His father, James, served as a Captain in the Pennsylvania troops during the American Revolution.5 James, in turn, was the son of John Galbraith, born around 1717.

Revolutionary War Battalions & Militia Index Cards. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Historical Society of Pennsylvania.

The story takes a dramatic turn with Andrew Galbraith, born around 1692 in Ireland. He emigrated to America with his father and became a prominent figure in early Pennsylvania, serving as a justice of the peace and a member of the Provincial Assembly. His wife, Mary Kyle, famously led a procession of mounted men to ensure Andrew’s election to the Assembly, demonstrating the strength and influence of early settlers.

Appletons’ Cyclopedia of American Biography; Volume: Vol. II

Further back, we find James Galbraith, born around 1666, one of the founders of the Old Derry Church. While his origins remain somewhat unclear, it’s believed he emigrated from Ireland in 1718.6

Ca. 1880s lithograph: Old Derry Church – – Built A. D. 1720 – –
Repaired A. D. 1760 (Palmyra, PA, Dauphin County)

Connecting these early generations to the Scottish homeland has been a challenge. While DNA analysis suggests a link to other Galbraith families, definitive proof remains elusive.

We do not know if James of 1666 was born in Ireland but he came from there in 1718. We don’t know that his father was John and we have failed to link James back to the first Galbraith family of Ireland, who arrived there about 1613. Our last Chief from Culcreuch fled to Ireland in about 1625 and left living sons in Scotland who might have lines to the present. We are pretty sure that Group 1 links back to the 1400s at Culcreuch–but we do not know if the Chiefs maintained the DNA into the future (or past to Bretnach of 1150).

From William Gilbreath of the Clan Galbraith Facebook group


We know the two groups have the same YDNA Haplogroup and most of the same markers, which leads us to believe they were related at some point, but they are several generations apart. We haven’t found any source documents to tie them together.

From Dana Love of the Clan Galbraith Facebook group

DNA has become an important tool in genealogical research, and as more people take the test, the number of matches increases, making it even more helpful. Hopefully, this will be true for these family lines.

This genealogical journey has been a reminder of the resilience and determination of my ancestors. Their stories – of military service, political leadership, and community building – continue to inspire me today.

  1. Egle, W. H. (1886). Pennsylvania Genealogies: Chiefly Scotch-Irish and German. ↩︎
  2. Burke, J. (Ed.). (1846). A Genealogical and Heraldic Dictionary of the Landed Gentry of Great Britain and Ireland, Volume 1. ↩︎
  3. Lineage Book: NSDAR: Volume 164: 1921. ↩︎
  4. Lineage Book: NSDAR: Volume 164: 1921. ↩︎
  5. Lineage Book: NSDAR: Volume 164: 1921. and Sons of the American Revolution records. ↩︎
  6. Egle, W. H. (1886). Pennsylvania Genealogies: Chiefly Scotch-Irish and German. ↩︎

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The Hidden Gems of Strawberry Hill: The Neighborhood That Shaped My Family History

A billboard advertising Strawberry Hill is displayed on the corner of North 6th Street and Central Avenue on Friday, Sep. 30, 2022, in Kansas City, Kansas. Emily Curiel ecuriel@kcstar.com

A Serendipitous Encounter with the Past

My journey into the world of genealogy has been filled with unexpected twists and turns, leading me down fascinating paths and uncovering hidden stories. One such discovery was the neighborhood of Strawberry Hill, a vibrant and historic community in Kansas City, Missouri.

The Stephanz Family Connection

My initial encounter with Strawberry Hill came about while researching the Stephanz surname in my family tree. In my blog post about Mathias Paul Stephanz, Jr., I mentioned that he resided at the rear of 411 Sandusky Avenue. This seemingly insignificant detail sparked my curiosity and led me on a deeper dive into the history of this particular address.

Unveiling the Past: The Chops and Wolfs

As I delved further, I discovered that the Stephanz family had neighbors with the surnames Chops and Wolfs (or Volf). Intriguingly, these families also shared a connection to 411 Sandusky Avenue, having lived in the same house at different points in time. This revelation piqued my interest even more, prompting me to explore the history of Strawberry Hill in greater detail.

A Fortunate Discovery: Don Wolf’s Blog and Book

While exploring the rich history of Strawberry Hill, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of information: Don Wolf’s blog and book. Don Wolf, a descendant of the Wolf family who were once neighbors to 411 Sandusky Avenue, had dedicated himself to preserving the history of Strawberry Hill. His work provided invaluable insights into the neighborhood’s past, including stories about the Chops and Wolfs, as well as other families who had called Strawberry Hill home.

Click on the photo to purchase “Croatian Love Story.”

The Heart of Strawberry Hill

Through Don Wolf’s writings and other historical resources, I began to piece together the vibrant tapestry of life in Strawberry Hill. I learned about the neighborhood’s diverse community, its rich cultural heritage, and its significant contributions to the history of Kansas City.

A Legacy of Resilience and Community

As I continued my research, I was struck by the resilience and community spirit that defined Strawberry Hill. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout its history, the neighborhood has persevered, maintaining its unique character and cultural identity.

A Personal Connection to History

My journey into the heart of Strawberry Hill has not only deepened my understanding of my family history but also provided a valuable connection to the broader historical narrative of Kansas City. It is a reminder that every place, every street, and every house has a story to tell, and that by exploring these stories, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the past and the people who shaped it.

Most of the children attended St. John the Baptist Catholic School. I found another interesting blog with photos of Strawberry Hill. One of the pictures I like the most is of his mother walking with groceries – one picture is before the highway, and the other is after.  Croatian History. 

From the Strawberry Hill Neighborhood Association:

Strawberry Hill History & Culture
“Situated in the heart of downtown Kansas City, Kansas, Strawberry Hill is a Slavic American community with a rich and unique history. It is one of overcoming obstacles and pulling together as a community to thrive and carve out a new home in the Heartland.

During the late 1800s, immigrants from Eastern Europe, a large number of them from Croatia, settled along the riverfront in an area known as “The Patch.” Most of these residents worked in the meat packing industry connected with the livestock exchange.

In 1904, a great flood destroyed many of these homes, forcing residents to move uphill from the river. Many of these immigrant families were forced to build their homes from materials salvaged and recycled from the homes destroyed in the flood and could only afford a narrow parcel of land, giving rise to the modest sized homes in close proximity to each other that dominate Strawberry Hill’s streets and avenues. The wild strawberry vines that covered the hillside gave the new community its name.

Over time, many families chose to grow their homes as their savings and income allowed. Some of the elaborate or stately Victorian homes in Strawberry Hill began as single story homes, or even shot-gun houses, while some of these modest houses have been preserved and retain their cottage size and style. The original paver sidewalks connect the turn-of-the-century folk houses, many of which retain their turned spindle work, stained glass windows, and, above all, their welcoming front porches.

Tragically, in 1918 the Spanish Flu arrived on The Hill. The tightly packed neighborhood exacerbated the spread of the deadly diseased which killed many adults in their 20’s and 30’s, leaving behind many orphans and widowed single parents. In 1919, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church purchased the Cruise-Scroggs home on 4th Street and opened an orphanage to help the orphaned children. It continued to operate as an orphanage until 1988, after which it became today’s museum and cultural center.

In 1957, 219 homes were destroyed to make way for the I-70 bridge. 1st street, 2nd street, 3rd street, and parts of 4th street were destroyed as well as the sections of neighborhood avenues that intersected these streets. Members of our association witnessed the destruction of their childhood homes and lost a portion of their heritage for the sake of the viaduct that connects Kansas City, Kansas to Kansas City, Missouri. St. John’s Park was created in the process of the construction and features a spectacular view of the Kansas City, Missouri skyline.

As recently as 2016, pedestrian trails have been improved as a part of the Riverfront Heritage Trail. This system of trails and pedestrian bridges now allows residents to travel by bike or on foot from Strawberry Hill to Kansas City, Missouri or the nearby Kaw Point Park, among other destinations realized by the extensive network of sidewalks and trails. The pedestrian bridge beneath I-70 near 3rd and Armstrong stretches across the river and features sculptures by a local artist.

The unique history of Strawberry Hill is one of perseverance, hard work, and surviving tragedies as a community. Whether natural disasters, epidemics, economic hardships, or certain destruction in the name of progress…our people have pulled together and weathered the hardest of circumstances. We have built a vibrant and beautiful community from the rubble and continue to thrive as an organized neighborhood that advocates for the preservation of our historic homes and the safety and well being of all residents–regardless of race, gender, age, class, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or political preference.

Our neighborhood association invites you to become a part of our bustling community!”

One of the best depictions of Strawberry Hill is by the artist Marijana Grisnick. Check out these links for her fascinating paintings and a glimpse of where our ancestors grew up.

Click the picture to purchase the book.

The Traditions of the Old Land

Marijana’s Childhood

Woman of Strawberry Hill

Business and Homes of Strawberry Hill

Religious Influence

Seasons and Holidays on the Hill

The Highway

Thank you to Don Wolf and the Strawberry Hill Ethnic Cultural Society for preserving our rich history. The below photos are from https://www.croatianhistory.net/etf/kansas.html

Strawberry Hill Don Wolf
St. John’s church before the turnpike in the 1940s. All the homes
between the church and the camera were destroyed for the new road.
Strawberry Hill about 100 years ago
Kansas City, 1907-1910 Erica DeCoursey
© 2004

My unexpected discovery of Strawberry Hill has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my genealogical journey. It has opened my eyes to the rich history that surrounds us and the power of personal stories to connect us to the past. As I continue to explore the depths of my family tree, I am grateful for the serendipitous encounters that have led me to this fascinating corner of history.

I encourage you to embark on your own genealogical journey and uncover the hidden stories within your own family history. You never know what fascinating discoveries await you. And if you have any stories or insights to share about Strawberry Hill, please feel free to leave a comment below. Let’s work together to preserve the rich history of this vibrant community.

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The Seafaring Gene: Exploring My Family’s Love of Water

A few years ago, I took the 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks Challenge created by Amy Johnson Crow. Amy is a certified genealogist whose podcasts, webpage, and social media accounts have taught me a lot.

The challenge was “Long Line.” This phrase can be interpreted in many ways, but what came to my mind was, “I come from a long line of water-loving ancestors.” The Wescotts, Chadwicks, Midgetts, and Tilletts all served in the Life-Saving Service (now called the U.S. Coast Guard).

The Logans, Beans, Royces, and Roots grew up along the coast, with family ties ranging from Scotland to New Hampshire and England to Massachusetts. Additionally, the Kunkles, Younkins, Hawks, Rittenhouses, Nices, and Morrisons hail from Germany and the Netherlands, settling in Pennsylvania.

We also have the Wescotts, Chaddicks, Midgetts, Chadwicks, Pughs, Woodhouses, and Jennetts from various places along the East Coast, with roots in England and France. The Cofers, Moodys, Wards, Barhams, Argalls, Davises, Harrisons, and many more emigrated from England to Virginia.

Even my trans-Appalachian pioneer ancestor journeyed from Virginia to Tennessee, eventually settling on Boone’s Creek and the Watauga River. My German, Slovenian, Croatian, and Polish ancestors also lived by the coast, and my connection to Jamestown is coastal as well!

Today, the Logans still reside in Michigan and Pennsylvania, while the Wescotts and Chadwicks are in North Carolina, Jacksonville Beach, and along the Gulf Coast.

I live in Florida and have a deep love for the water—be it the ocean, rivers, or lakes. Now, I understand why. Could we all have a gene for seafaring? According to an article published in the journal, Genetic Determinism Today, researchers at Mystic University in Connecticut have identified a gene linked to a love of the sea.1

My “Long Line” is the enduring connection to the coast, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

  1. “Just a moment…” genotopia.scienceblog.com/9/scientists-find-gene-for-love-of-the-sea-2/. Accessed 18 Jan 2020 . ↩︎

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The Untold Stories of 17th Century Child Vagrants: My Tenth Great-Grandfather

Thomas Rowlandson, The Passroom at Bridewell, from The Microcosm of London (1808). © London Lives.

A Reflection on Their Struggles and Resilience

Exploring family ancestry can provide fascinating insights into history and migration patterns. One weekend, while delving into my family tree, I discovered my 10th great-grandfather, Nicholas Granger. His journey is particularly noteworthy, as he was approximately 9 years old when he was sent to America. This highlights an important aspect of immigration history: many immigrants were children, and not all arrived with their families.

I exist today because of this brave boy. 

(All wording is how it was spelled in colonial records.)

In 1618, the Virginia Company petitioned the London Common Council with a request for assistance in bringing over one hundred poor and vagrant children. This reflects the early colonial efforts to populate Virginia, as well as the social challenges faced by many in England during that time. They asked that one hundred poor and vagrant children, who lie in the streets… having no place of abode nor friends to relieve them, be shipped to the fledgling colony of Jamestown, at the city’s expense.1

Seventy-five boys and twenty-five girls were accordingly transported for running wild in the streets, for being vagrant, on 27 February 1618; though it should be said that none of those apprehended and sent over were formally convicted in the London court system.2

“The Prospect of Bridewell” from John Strype’s An Accurate Edition of Stow’s
“A Survey of London” (1720)

Only a few of these children survived in the harsh realities of early Virginian life, including two “Bridewell Boys” called Nathaniel Tatum and Nicholas Granger, who appear to have found some success in their new world. “Bridewell Boys” referred to young boys sent from England to the colonies as indentured servants, most often as a form of punishment for minor crimes. 3

Nicholas married Elizabeth circa 1627. His wife was probably the Elizabeth Gringer, aged 33, who made a deposition in Mar 1634/5 in Northampton County.4

On 13 Aug 1638, Alice Robins was reported as saying that if Nicholas Granger had not come to Virginia, he would have been hanged; but 9-year-olds were not hanged, even in 1619.4

Side note: According to my research, Alice Robins was in the courts frequently. It seems she and her husband liked to cause trouble.

“The deposition of R…this deponent aged…that he goeinge to…Nicholas Granger…the said p…Robins…her one…Robins…wise…Upon…Allice…the wife…whore…also at one…and Crabbing…therefore ordered that said woman for her misdemenoes shal be towed over the Creeke tomorrow at ten of the clock”5

Goodwiffe Robbins’ wife was brought into court for slandering Richard’s wife Mary.  Goodwife Robins’ wife Alice received twenty lashes for this offense. It appears that Alice Robbins was a disagreeable person evidenced by the fact that she was quite often in court. For her slanderous offense she was “…lashed to the end of a canoe and towed over the creek”.

In another deposition, she is quoted as saying that Mary Hudson “was as badd as anie salte Bitch.”

Nicholas Granger is documented in the colonial records from the early 17th century. In his will, dated April 1, 1639, Nicholas Harwood acknowledged Goodman Granger for his care and generosity by leaving funds to buy a “calf for Nicholas Granger, my godson.”6

Such bequests were common in wills of the time, underscoring the importance of community and familial support within colonial society. On August 3, 1640, Nicholas Granger was granted a certificate for 200 acres of land, with his wife, Elizabeth, named as one of the headrights—this system allowed landowners to claim land based on the number of people they transported to the colonies.

On October 1, 1647, in Northampton County, Nicholas Granger transferred a heifer to his daughter, Christian Granger, and this transaction was witnessed by Henry Armitradinge, who was involved in similar transactions on the same day, likely in preparation for marriage. Christian married Henry Armitradinge later that year, indicating that land ownership and livestock, like a heifer, played a significant role in family wealth and social standing.

Nicholas Granger patented land on September 20, 1647, in Northampton County, Virginia. He initially received a patent for 350 acres near the head of Nassawattocks Creek, adjacent to Stephen Horsey’s property; however, this land was later found to be already part of a patent held by Colonel Francis Yeardley and was subsequently lost. He also had another patent for 350 acres along Pungoteague River and Pocomeck Creek, which he assigned to Nicholas Waddilow, as recorded in Waddilow’s patent on April 2, 1655.

On March 25, 1651, Nicholas Granger took the oath of allegiance, promising loyalty to the Commonwealth of England as it was established without a king or House of Lords. This reflects the political shifts of the time and the complexities of allegiance during a period of significant change in England’s governance. At that time, he was officially recorded as Nicholas Granger, linking his personal story to the broader tapestry of early American history.

Nicholas died after 25 March 1651 in Northampton County, Virginia.

My line stems from Nicholas’ son, Nicholas (abt. 1627).

Through exploring the life of Nicholas Granger, we gain a better understanding of the struggles and triumphs of early immigrants to America, as well as the importance of family legacy and community in shaping our histories.

Citations

  1. Theodore K. Rabb, “Sandys, Sir Edwin (1561–1629. ↩︎
  2. Records of Individuals ordered to be sent to Virginia, ca. 1618-37 from Bridewell Royal Hospital ↩︎
  3. Accession 26237, Library of Virginia: “Records of Individuals ordered to be sent to Virginia, ca. 1618-37 ↩︎
  4. John Frederick Dorman, Adventurers of Purse and Person, Virginia, 1607-1624/5, p. 68 and p. 119 (Granger Family). ↩︎
  5. Virginia Colonial Abstracts Transcript pg. 154 (Original Mutilated. Pg. 204. ↩︎
  6. James Handley Marshall, Northampton Co, VA, Abstracts of Wills & Administrations, 1632-1802, p. 4 (will of Nicholas Harwood). ↩︎

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Your DNA’s Hidden Stories: How to Maximize Family Tree Connections

Recently, I’ve been assisting several clients with their DNA matches from the DNA tests they’ve taken. As I wrote here, Ethnicity estimates shouldn’t define your family tree. Since I have either built or helped expand their family trees, we’ve had success connecting many of those matches to their trees. However, it’s frustrating for both my clients and me to encounter the large number of matches that either have no tree linked to their DNA test or only a small tree with just two or three people. This lack of information is not helpful for anyone involved. While some may be primarily interested in ethnicity reports, even they are missing out on the full story. Let me explain.

Why Link Your DNA Results to a Family Tree?

Using Ancestry.com as an example, linking your DNA results to a family tree is essential because it allows you to identify how you are related to your DNA matches. By comparing your genetic information to individuals in your family tree, you can gain valuable insights into your ancestry and discover new family connections through shared ancestors. Essentially, it bridges the gap between your genetic data and your known family history.

When you link your DNA results to a public tree on Ancestry.com, you activate shared ancestor hints, which appear in the ThruLines tool. The larger your linked tree, the better your chances of finding common ancestors. This connection allows you to:

  • Identify who in your tree is a DNA match.
  • See how you’re related to your matches.
  • Keep a record of these connections.
  • Determine which parts of your tree they can help with and which shared relatives they might have stories or information about.

Link Your DNA Results

At Ancestry, you need to link your test to “you” in a tree. If the DNA test belongs to your mother, link it to your mother in your tree. Note that your test can only be linked to one person in one tree at a time. If you decide to disconnect and reconnect to another tree, record everything first, as you will lose your current ThruLines. These will regenerate based on the new tree but may differ depending on the tree’s content and other factors.

To receive green document leaf hints, potential parent hints, and DNA hints such as ThruLines, you need to provide enough information for Ancestry’s system to connect the dots. This includes:

  • Birth and death dates
  • Birth and death locations
  • All spouses, not just the one you descend from
  • Children and their spouses
  • At least one additional generation of descendants

Every generation added gives Ancestry’s software more “info” to use for connecting the dots.

Best Practices for Hints and Trees

Never blindly accept hints or assume their accuracy. Early in my genealogy journey, I trusted information without verification, believing that older generations had everything correct. Today, we have more resources to validate information and acknowledge that errors can occur. In your family tree, the leaves represent document or record hints, not DNA matches. The leaves on your DNA match page indicate a common ancestor identified in the tree of your DNA match.

When reviewing a hint, use the “maybe” button to move it into an Undecided folder if you’re unsure. I try to keep my leaves organized so I can easily identify new hints. While I ignore Ancestry Member Trees as sources (because they are not a source!) in my tree, I use them as research starting points and messaging opportunities.

I also ignore DNA icon picture hints, as these images often represent personal identifiers rather than actual ancestor photos. And they make for useless hints you do receive. I also do not use them in my own trees for that very reason. Instead, use Ancestry’s MyTreeTags to organize your tree. Tags help label people as DNA matches, military veterans, direct ancestors, and more. Tags can be universal (e.g., “DNA” or “Common DNA Ancestor”) or custom (e.g., for unique family history needs).

Understanding ThruLines

ThruLines are calculated for a maximum of seven generations, counting your parents as generation one. (“seven generations” is equivalent to the “5th generation” when counting back through your ancestry.) The three requirements for ThruLines are:

  1. You must have a tree.
  2. Your DNA test must be linked to a person in that tree.
  3. You must have DNA matches to other people with the same ancestor in their tree.

To maximize ThruLines, enter names of spouses and children for eligible generations. Feeding the machine with more data improves results.

Why Sharing Matters

I totally get why some folks might hold back from sharing their family trees; it can feel like you’re “giving away” a piece of your puzzle. But I like to think of it differently! Imagine if my efforts help someone stumble upon a long-lost ancestor’s photo or finally break down that stubborn brick wall in their research. Or what if I inspire someone to dive into Y-DNA or mitochondrial DNA testing? That’s what it’s all about! Collaboration in genetic genealogy can lead to amazing discoveries. Let’s come together and unlock these family stories—who knows what we might find!

Closing Thoughts

Genetic genealogy thrives on collaboration. By linking DNA results to detailed family trees and embracing tools like ThruLines and MyTreeTags, you can unlock powerful insights and connections. Sharing your research and findings enriches not only your own journey but also the broader genealogical community.

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The Secret Weapon in Your Family History Research: Artificial Intelligence

Have you ever thought about how AI might have played a role in your family history research—perhaps without you even noticing? It’s possible that artificial intelligence (AI) has been quietly aiding your family history research all along! It’s fascinating to consider!

AI is revolutionizing the field of genealogy, and you might be surprised by how often you’ve encountered it. For instance, popular platforms like Ancestry.com leverage AI to recommend relevant records (those leafy “hints.”) and unearth potential matches in other family trees. Platforms like 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and MyHeritage use AI to identify potential relatives based on shared DNA.

MyHeritage even offers AI Biographer™, a tool that generates Wikipedia-style biographies of your ancestors using historical records and information from your family tree.

But AI’s contributions extend far beyond these well-known examples. Even if you’re a beginner in genealogy research, several AI tools can become your research companions:

  • Versatility Personified: ChatGPT – This multifaceted AI tackles general genealogy questions and assists you in crafting effective research strategies.
  • Your Genealogical Gemini: Google’s Gemini – Similar to ChatGPT, Gemini offers a helping hand with your genealogical inquiries.
  • The Genealogical Detective, Assistant, and Librarian: Perplexity – Don’t let the name intimidate you! Perplexity is another AI platform that can be your one-stop shop for family history research queries.

These AI tools act as virtual research assistants, prompting you with questions and guiding you through various aspects of genealogy. Additionally, there are AI tools designed specifically for genealogy research:

  • Open GeneaGPT: Your AI Research Assistant – Open GeneaGPT is a tailor-made AI assistant for family history researchers and genealogists.
  • Genealogy Eyes: Unveiling the Stories Hidden in Your Heirlooms – Genealogy Eyes helps you analyze images of documents, headstones, and other genealogical artifacts.

Tips to Kickstart Your AI-Powered Genealogy Journey

  • Embrace the Power of Questions: Begin by using AI platforms to ask basic questions about genealogical research methods.
  • AI-Driven Brainstorming: Let AI help you generate new ideas for uncovering information about your ancestors.
  • Demystifying Genealogy with AI: Don’t hesitate to ask AI to explain unfamiliar genealogical terms or concepts.
  • AI as Your Historical Interpreter: Utilize AI to gain insights into historical documents or understand the context of the time periods you’re researching.

While AI is a powerful tool, it’s crucial to remember that it should complement, not replace, traditional research methods. Always verify the information gleaned from AI with primary sources to ensure the accuracy of your family history.

I hope this revamped blog post, infused with the power of AI, empowers you to delve deeper into your family’s rich tapestry!

A Crest, a Flash Drive, and the Spark of Loganalogy: The Beginning of My Family History Side Hustle

36 days. That’s all it took for me to dive headfirst into someone else’s family tree—and spark a passion that would change my life.

It all began one October evening, when a friend shared stories from her trip to the Carolina Renaissance Festival in North Carolina. Among her souvenirs was a family crest bearing her maiden name. Knowing my love for genealogy, she asked the question that sparked it all: “Is this real?” She hoped to gift something meaningful to her dad for Christmas, and her curiosity opened the door for me to explore her roots.

I offered to research her family—for free. As part of my five-year plan to start a genealogy business, I needed experience digging into someone else’s lineage. She agreed, and the adventure began. That was in 2018.

A Journey Through Time

My friend’s knowledge of her family tree extended to her great-grandparents, along with a few stories passed down through the generations. But as I started piecing together the puzzle, her family’s history unfolded like a novel.

On her father’s paternal line, I quickly found myself tracing branches to France. Her 3rd great-grandfather arrived in New Orleans before 1843, where he married. His father, her 4th great-grandfather, was born in Languemburg, de la Meurthe, France, and tragically died in a train accident.

Her other 4th great-grandfather’s story read like an epic escape. A wealthy planter in Saint-Domingue (now Haiti), he fled to Louisiana during the Haitian Revolution, aided by faithful slaves who ensured his family’s safety. The French government compensated him for his losses until his death.

On her father’s maternal side, the trail led to France and Germany. Though I could trace her great-grandmother’s line extensively, her paternal line only reached as far as Germany.

Then came the jackpot: her grandmother’s maternal line.

Swedish Roots and Scottish Legacies

Her 3rd great-grandfather Green, born in Mississippi, was the son of Lundgren, a Swedish immigrant who arrived in America in 1836. This line stretched back ten generations in Sweden, rooted in the region of Gotland.

Green’s mother was a Cameron, whose paternal line reached back to her 7th great-grandfather in Scotland. This branch also uncovered Civil War service, land ownership in Mississippi, and connections to the Stanford family, who helped colonize Maryland.

A Stanford ancestor patented a plantation in 1695, fought in the Revolutionary War, and endured six months aboard the infamous British prison ship Jersey. His son continued the family’s legacy, serving in the War of 1812 and settling in Georgia.

A Gift to Remember

As Christmas approached, I compiled my research onto a flash drive and handed it over to my friend. It felt like giving away a piece of myself—but I couldn’t help but sneak peeks at her tree now and then to uncover even more.

So, was the crest she bought at the Renaissance Festival truly hers? A crest with her family name exists, but whether it ties directly to her lineage remains a mystery. Perhaps her new “family historian” will be the one to find out.

Closing Thoughts

This project wasn’t just about tracing names and dates; it was about discovering stories that connect us to the past. It was the spark that led me to start my family history business, Loganalogy, and share the joy of uncovering ancestors’ stories with others.

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William Hickox: The 1600’s Settler of Farmington, Connecticut

Is That Year Correct? The 1600s? You Betcha! Meet My 10th Great-Grandfather
Have you ever wondered what life was like for our ancestors in the 1600s? My 10th great-grandfather, William Hickok—whose last name can be found spelled as Hicox, Hikox, Hickox, Heacock, or even Hickcock—arrived in America in 1635 aboard the ship Plain Joan1. At about 36 years old, he stepped onto Virginia soil, ready to start a new chapter in his life.2

The Pioneer of Farmington, Connecticut
Not long after arriving, William became one of the original settlers of Farmington, Connecticut. This small settlement, primarily established by families from Hartford, began with a land purchase from the local Native Americans in 1640. The early days were challenging, with most landowners still living in Hartford and traveling back and forth to Farmington. William’s home lot, purchased in 1645, marked the start of his family’s roots in the New World.3

William’s wife, Elizabeth, is somewhat of a mystery—historians have yet to agree on her maiden name.4 Together, they had two sons, Samuel and Joseph, the latter of whom is our ancestor. Tragically, shortly after acquiring his Farmington land, William passed away while farming.

A Family Torn Apart
Elizabeth remarried and had two more children, but in 1655, heartbreak struck again. Her second husband died, and mere weeks later, Elizabeth also passed away—likely victims of the smallpox and fever epidemic that swept through New England. This left four young children, ranging in age from 3 to 12, without parents:

Benjamin-6 years, Elizabeth-3 years, Samuel Heacock-12 years, Joseph Heacock-10 years

What became of Samuel and Joseph’s upbringing remains unclear. However, Joseph later married Mary Carpenter and fathered five children before his own untimely death in 1687. Their eldest son, also named Joseph, ensured the Hickok line endured—and from this lineage came one of the most legendary figures in American history.

Wild Bill Hickok: Family Ties to a Legend
Yes, that Wild Bill Hickok, the gunslinging icon of the Wild West, is my 4th cousin, five times removed! James Butler “Wild Bill” Hickok is the 5th great-grandson of our William Hickok. His lineage follows this path:

~William Hickoks
~Joseph
~Joseph
~Stephen
~Aaron
~Oliver Otis
~William Alonzo
~James Butler Hickok

But wait—there’s more! Did Wild Bill know that his 4th great-grandmother, was accused of being a Salem witch? That story is here, and it’s a tantalizing footnote in our family history.

Joseph Hickok
Wild Bill
Lewis Hiccox
They Called Him Wild Bill: The Life and Adventures of James Butler Hickok, By Joseph G. Rosa

Was William Hickok a Neighbor of Shakespeare?

Here’s another twist: William may have been born in London or Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire, England—Shakespeare’s stomping grounds! According to records, Shakespeare’s birthplace in Henley Street was later leased to a Lewis Hiccox, who converted it into an inn. Could William have been connected to this family? It’s fun to imagine our ancestor rubbing elbows with the Bard himself!5

 1863 Picture below

https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/shakespeares-birthplace-home-and-grave-pictures

2017 Picture Below

The Birthplace Now

From Connecticut to My Own Roots

The Hickok family’s journey to Connecticut ultimately brought together other branches of my family tree. John Logan, one of my immigrant ancestors, married Dorcas Root, Joseph Hickok’s granddaughter, and she became my 6th great-grandmother. What a fascinating tapestry of connections!

  1. Wikitree.com Plain Joan ↩︎
  2. Passengers of the Plain Joan to Virginia, May 1635, NEHGS April 1848 Passengers for Virginia www.rays-place.com ↩︎
  3. Bickford, Christopher.  Farmington in Connecticut. Canaan NH: Phoenix Publishing, 1982. At Salt Lake City, Utah: FHL 974.62/F1 H2b.  ↩︎
  4. See Biography https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Hickox-39 ↩︎
  5. The House After Shakespeare https://www.shakespeare.org.uk/explore-shakespeare/shakespedia/shakespeares-birthplace/house-after-shakespeare/ ↩︎

Sleuthing For The Holidays

Halloween heralds the holiday season, offering a chance to connect with loved ones. Engage family members by asking questions about their past, sharing old photos, and noting details for future generations. Turn memory gathering into a game, using recording devices or index cards for answers. Collect cherished recipes to document family traditions for a memorable gathering.

The holiday season is nearly here! Don’t forget to spend quality time with your loved ones amidst all the preparations, traveling, and shopping. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to talk to your relatives and gather some family history!

There’s no need for a formal interview; simply weave in a few questions here and there. Bring along some old photos that you’ve been curious about and uncover their stories. A single photograph can evoke memories of loved ones. Most importantly, make sure to note the dates and names of the people in the photos. You may recognize them now, but will you remember who they are two decades from now? What about your children?

Inquire about personal details, such as their childhood nickname and the story behind it. Did they live in a house, an apartment, a city, or a suburb during their upbringing? What professions did their parents or grandparents have? Were they fortunate enough to meet their grandparents or great-grandparents? Where did they spend their formative years? What led them to where they are now?

At the conclusion of each of my Family History Detectives classes, I presented my students with a Family History Mystery to unravel. They were tasked with uncovering their family traditions, including their origins and the individuals responsible for them. Additionally, they explored the significance of cherished recipes passed down through generations.

My aunt gifted me a collection of heirloom photos, many of which were unlabelled. To engage my cousins, aunts, and uncles, I set up a family Facebook page and scanned the images for everyone to help identify them. This initiative not only greatly assisted me but also sparked lively conversations about the “good old days.”

You don’t need to dominate a family gathering with questions and records; instead, turn it into an enjoyable experience. Consider making it a game! Use your smartphone’s recording feature to capture memories. Hand the phone around and ask each family member to share a cherished memory or a meaningful event related to a family member. 

Another fun approach involves index cards. Distribute them and pose a question that everyone must answer on their card. Once filled out, circulate the cards for others to read. There’s no single approach that works for everyone, so feel free to get creative while gathering valuable family insights.

Don’t forget to ask family members for their favorite recipes from the occasion. Create your own recipe box featuring these dishes. Include notes about the recipe’s origins and any changes made along the way. Be sure to document the date you received the recipe and from whom. 

With a little creativity, you can cherish your holiday gathering while enriching your family history.

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Smoothing Out the Snags: How to Tackle Common Genealogy Pitfalls

As family historians, we’re no strangers to challenges. Our work requires patience and dedication, often navigating through countless records in search of a missing piece to the puzzle. While it’s all part of the journey, there are a few common mistakes and oversights that can hinder progress for beginners and seasoned researchers alike. Let’s explore some of these pitfalls and how to sidestep them, making your genealogy journey smoother and more accurate.

1) Unsourced Family Trees
One of the biggest challenges in online research is coming across family trees that lack sources. Without citations, notes, or records to back up the information, it becomes nearly impossible to verify the accuracy of those entries. To avoid this, always make a habit of adding sources—whether it’s a census record, a photo, or even a story passed down from relatives. It helps others (and yourself) to understand where the information originated.

2) Incoherent Information
Mistakes happen, but spotting impossible scenarios—like a person giving birth after their death—can feel confusing. Double-checking dates and cross-referencing records can prevent these errors from slipping in. Always remember, consistency is key in genealogy.

3) Duplicate Children
When researching large families, especially in the 1800s, it’s important to verify children’s birth dates and names. Variations in nicknames across records (like Maggie for Margaret or Polly for Mary) can cause confusion, so be mindful of these when reviewing census records.

4) Unresponsive Genealogy Contacts
It’s always exciting to connect with distant relatives online, but don’t be disheartened if you don’t get an immediate response. While it can be frustrating, remember that people may have busy schedules. A gentle follow-up message is okay, and patience is key.

5) Recycling Unverified Facts
It’s tempting to adopt information from other family trees, but it’s important to verify facts before incorporating them into your own. Always take a moment to check records and sources; this will ensure that your family tree remains accurate and reliable.

6) Unlabeled Photos
Photographs of ancestors can be priceless treasures, but unlabeled images can cause confusion. When sharing family photos, be sure to include as much detail as possible—dates, names, and locations. Even if some details are unclear, adding context helps future researchers.

7) Irrelevant Records
It’s easy to misinterpret a record that seems to match an ancestor, but always consider the geographical and chronological context. If your ancestor spent their life in one place, it’s unlikely they have records in a far-off country without explanation. Keep track of family movements to avoid such missteps.

8) Mythical Surname Coats-of-Arms
Be cautious when it comes to purchasing coats-of-arms tied to your surname. Remember, coats-of-arms are granted to specific individuals, not entire families. It’s always worth researching the actual lineage behind such claims.

Genealogy is an exciting adventure, filled with moments of discovery and connection. While it’s natural to encounter challenges along the way, approaching your research with a discerning eye and a commitment to accuracy will ensure that the stories you uncover are as authentic as the ancestors who lived them. Whether you’re just starting out or diving deeper, keeping these common pitfalls in mind will help make your family history journey all the more rewarding.

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