The 2026 Schedule
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Results: 96
(15 sessions)
- OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- Ballroom A - Ballroom A
Getting Started: Record Types
Moving beyond the general search feature on family history websites and databases necessitates familiarizing yourself with different record types and how to read them. In this session, attendees will learn what record types exist in different times and places, how to access those records, and what details they include.
This beginner-level session is sponsored by the BYU Family History Program. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 151 - 151
Best Practices in Locating Your Immigrant Ancestor's Ship Manifest
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyNot sure of your ancestral origins? Can't locate your immigrant ancestor's ship manifest? Interested in other family members that may have immigrated or stayed behind? This session will provide strategies and resources to locate the ship manifests of your late 19th to early 20th century immigrant ancestor to the USA. Topics will include the immigration process, ports of interest, pertinent records to locate ship manifests, and relevant databases. Case studies will further illustrate these topics. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 155 A - 155 A
Common Law Marriage and Other Legal Reasons Why Records Aren't There
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyNot everyone who was married in the United States had a registered marriage. Often, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries, people lived together, or had religious marriage ceremonies but no license was ever issued. These "Common Law Marriages" were just as legal as marriages with a license. In fact, 10 states today still allow such common law marriages, including Utah.You will learn what a common law marriage is. and why it exists. You will also learn how to identify if a common law marriage may exist in your own family. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 250 - 250
Power Hour: The Power of Process: From Clues to Conclusions
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlySuccessful genealogical research doesn’t happen by accident—it follows a thoughtful and deliberate process. In this fast-paced “Power Hour,” five expert speakers will guide you through the essential steps that lead from scattered clues to solid conclusions. Each presenter will highlight a key phase in the research process: gathering information, choosing a research focus, finding relevant records, evaluating evidence, and sharing results. Whether you're refining your method or building a framework for future research, this session offers practical insights and proven strategies to elevate your genealogical work. - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 255 D - 255 D
From Virginia to Guam: Tracing A Black Family via DNA and Maritime Records
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyWhat if a DNA test connected your family to an island half a world away? In this session, presenter Andre Kearns reveals how he traced his free Black ancestor from 1800s Virginia to Guam—uncovering a forgotten family branch through genetic matches and maritime records from the New Bedford Whaling Museum. You’ll learn how to connect the dots between surprising DNA results and historical migration, using underutilized resources like whaling ship logs, crew manifests, and museum archives. If you're curious about tracing ancestors who ventured far from home—or want to explore the rich legacy of Black mariners—this session will inspire new possibilities for your research. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAdvanced/ProfessionalThis session has a skill level of Advanced/Professional- 255 EF - 255 EF
The GPS in Practice: Examples of Reasonably Exhaustive Research
Learn to determine when research is thorough by evaluating real-world examples. This session demonstrates how to apply the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) to address research challenges, including identifying parents, distinguishing between multiple individuals with the same name, resolving conflicting evidence, and writing biographical sketches.
Participants will learn advanced techniques for integrating thorough research, source analysis, and evidence correlation.
Attendees would benefit from a solid understanding of basic genealogical research methods and familiarity with a wide variety of original records.
This advanced-level session is sponsored by BCG and ICAPGen. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom G - Ballroom G
New Englanders to Nova Scotia, Canada: Soldiers, Settlers and Refugees
This lecture will cover the various migrations and settlement by New Englanders in Acadia now Nova Scotia in the 18th century through 19th century. Understand the resources in New England and Nova Scotia that will benefit your research online, published, and in American and Canadian archives. Determine what records you can search from home, or what you actually need to research in person in New England and Nova Scotia. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom E - Ballroom E
Essential Databases for Swedish and Finnish Research
Discover the key to successful research for ancestors in Sweden and Finland for genealogists of all levels. With 80% focus on Swedish records and 20% on Finnish sources, you’ll learn how to navigate the most powerful online and offline databases that save time and strengthen your evidence. From parish records and military rolls to lesser-known archives, uncover strategies to tap into the vast collections that bring your Swedish and Finnish ancestors to life. Whether you're just beginning or deep into your Nordic roots, this session will equip you with tools to explore your heritage with confidence and clarity.
Presented by FamilySearch - OnlineThis session is onlineIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate
Great Uncle Bill in India: an overview of British India records
If you have discovered a family member who lived in British India, passed through, or the family were there for generations, where do you go next to research your relatives.
This session will discuss:- Online traditional and non-traditional sources
- Archives and libraries
- Social media
- Family history societies
- In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 155 BC - 155 BC
9 Common Pitfalls in English Genealogy
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyIn this intermediate-focused session, you’ll tackle nine frequent research mistakes in English genealogy and learn clear, practical strategies to avoid them. We’ll explore how to: interpret name variants and phonetic spellings; recognize recycled infant names; distinguish similar names like John vs. Jonathan; navigate shifting parish and jurisdictional boundaries; uncover nonconformist registers; verify digital indexes against originals; prevent misattributing places with identical names; diversify beyond a single genealogy website; and leverage collateral lines to break through brick walls. By the end, you’ll feel confident applying these techniques to your own research.
Attendees will benefit from having basic English research skills - OnlineThis session is onlineBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner
New to German Genealogy? Start Here!
Want to start your German genealogy, but feeling a bit overwhelmed? Let's fix that! In this beginner-friendly session, you'll learn the exact steps you need to begin tracing your German roots. From finding your ancestor's hometown all the way to locating obscure records in Europe, this session is packed full of actionable steps you can take to find your German ancestors. You'll leave confident and excited to start this side of your family tree! - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 251 - 251
How to Turn Your Research into a Great Life Story
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyThose who research often say they can't write and those who write often say they can't research. This class will dispel those rumors by teaching would be writers how to add facts to their ancestor stories and would be researchers how to capture their excellent research and create a beautiful story. We will details how to access help from others and how to make the most of what Familysearch, Ancestry and other research tools can do to find information that will help to create a fact-based and captivating life story.
A mobile device will be helpful for this session. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom H - Ballroom H
Mastering the Four Prongs of Onsite Genealogy Research
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyIn today’s digital-first world, it’s easy to overlook the powerful resources available through in-person research. This session will reignite your passion for onsite exploration by diving into the Four Pillars of Genealogy Research: Archives, Historical Societies, Genealogical Societies, and Libraries. Discover how each of these institutions—at local, regional, and national levels—holds unique records and insights that can break down brick walls in your family history. Learn how to navigate them effectively, ask the right questions, and uncover hidden gems that online databases often miss. - OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
Poor, Pauper, or Pragmatic? Victorian Burial and Identity
Based on original research into burial practices in Victorian cities, this talk explores how the treatment of the dead reflected the values, identities, and struggles of the living. In Britain’s fast-growing industrial cities, burial was shaped not just by grief, but by class, religion, migration, and public health. Whether an individual was laid to rest in a family plot, a pauper’s grave, or excluded altogether, these final decisions reveal powerful stories about social status, belief systems, and community belonging.
Using case studies from burial registers, newspaper inquests, and municipal records, we’ll uncover how families navigated the politics and practicalities of death in the 19th century. From Catholic exclusion to overcrowded cemeteries and burial club economies, this talk reveals what lies beneath the surface of Victorian graveyards. Attendees will also receive practical tips on how to interpret burial sources and uncover hidden details about their urban ancestors, especially those missing from traditional records. - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 155 EF - 155 EF
Double Dates and Lost Days: Making Sense of the Calendar Switch
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyFind out how to read, adjust, and interpret dates from before and after 1752 in England and its colonies. We’ll cover double dating, New Year’s Day changes, and what to watch for in cemetery records, family Bibles, and civil documents.
(19 sessions)
- OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Hall E - Hall E
FamilySearch Global and Tech Forum 2026
Join leaders from FamilySearch as they showcase new features and highlights from around the globe. - OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
From Family Lore to Federal Rolls: Confirming Native Ancestry
This presentation guides attendees through the process of verifying Native American ancestry and understanding tribal affiliation. It begins by exploring the difference between federally and non-federally recognized tribes, with a focus on the Five Civilized Tribes. Attendees will learn how to begin research with family records and how to use federal rolls like the Dawes and Baker Rolls for genealogical and legal purposes. The session explains the concept of blood quantum, how it affects tribal enrollment, and why it remains controversial. It also covers key enrollment requirements for various tribes and provides examples of tribal rolls still used today. Finally, the presentation addresses the role and limits of DNA testing in ancestry verification and provides tools and resources for continuing research. This session empowers individuals to trace their Native heritage with accuracy and respect for tribal protocols. - OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
German Surnames Unlocked: Meaning, Origin, Clues
Ever wonder what your German surname really means? Why it has different spellings? Or why the names changed overtime? Learn how understanding your ancestors’ surnames can reveal where they came from, what they did, and where to search next. Perfect not only for beginners ready to unlock the hidden clues in family names, but also for experienced researchers looking to uncover and explore influences over these complex surname variations, while picking up a bit of German history and local practices along the way. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAdvanced/ProfessionalThis session has a skill level of Advanced/Professional- 255 EF - 255 EF
Untangling the Darling Web: Advanced Strategies for Same Name Resolution
What do you do when five men named Peter Darling live in the same area—at the same time—with overlapping families? This advanced session addresses the real-world challenge of resolving identity conflicts when multiple individuals share the same name in records. Using a published case study from Rhode Island Roots (Vol. 50, No. 4, Dec. 2024), attendees will walk through the analytical process that separated the Darlings of 18th- and 19th-century Cumberland, Rhode Island. Learn how to build identity profiles, construct timelines, correlate evidence across jurisdictions, and write proof arguments that hold up to genealogical standards. If you’ve ever encountered a same-name mystery—or need tools to prove which ancestor is yours—this session will sharpen your skills and strengthen your conclusions.
This advanced-level session is sponsored by BCG and ICAPGen. - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 155 A - 155 A
Healing Lineages: Indigenous Mental Wellness Through Ancestral and Genealogical Reconnection
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyThis session invites participants to critically engage with the role of ancestral connection and family history in promoting Indigenous mental wellness. Drawing upon Indigenous frameworks of well-being—grounded in concepts of hope, meaning, purpose, and belonging—the workshop will examine how genealogical reconnection can serve as a catalyst for emotional resilience, cultural identity formation, and intergenerational healing.
Participants will also explore the psychological impact of confronting traumatic histories, including those related to residential schools, child welfare interventions, and systemic displacement. Through the integration of trauma-informed strategies and Indigenous wellness teachings, the session offers a reflective space to consider both the restorative and emotionally complex dimensions of genealogical research within Indigenous contexts.
Ideal for those engaging with Indigenous family history, cultural revitalization, or decolonial approaches to mental health, - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom H - Ballroom H
The Art of the Family History Interview: From Awkward to Amazing
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyThis lively panel reveals the art behind successful family history interviews—moving beyond awkward interrogations to meaningful conversations that deepen connections. Watch live demonstrations as three experienced educators show you the difference between pestering relatives for facts and creating comfortable spaces where stories flow naturally. Discover why your well-meaning questions might be falling flat and learn active listening techniques that unlock deeper memories. We'll tackle the real challenges: getting past one-word answers, handling emotional topics gracefully, and transforming reluctant relatives into eager storytellers. You'll gain practical tools for preparation, recording, and follow-up, plus question strategies that work across generations. Whether you're facing the prospect of the reluctant interviewee or the tangent-taking talker, this session will equip you to conduct interviews that leave both you and your relatives feeling great about the experience. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 255 D - 255 D
Tracing the Empire State: What Makes New York Research So Unique?
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyNew York is one of the most rewarding (but at times confusing) states for genealogical research. This session offers a practical overview of what makes researching New York ancestors so different from other states, with tips for overcoming its quirks and leveraging its strengths. This session is ideal for anyone who has “hit a wall” in New York and wants a better framework for moving forward. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 251 - 251
Effective Search Strategies on FamilySearch
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyLearn tricks to find your elusive ancestors in the historical records on FamilySearch. This lecture is geared for beginners, but all can benefit learning my top ten tricks for finding family. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 151 - 151
Obituaries as Priceless Genealogy Resources
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyThe information in obituaries can teach you fascinating details about your relatives’ lives that you won’t find anywhere else. Beyond the basic information about the ancestor’s life and death, you might learn about their professions, passions, and loved ones, and gain a glimpse into what it was like to know them. In this session, Daniel will show you techniques and repositories that can help you find your ancestors’ stories after their death — even if previous attempts you’ve made came up dry. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom A - Ballroom A
Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Genealogy in 2026
As artificial intelligence rapidly reshapes genealogical workflows, understanding how to use these tools responsibly has never been more important. This pioneering panel highlights the latest best practices for integrating AI into your research while upholding genealogical standards. Join us to learn how thought leaders in the field approach accuracy, disclosure, privacy, education, and ethical compliance in 2026—and how you can confidently apply these principles in your own work. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- Ballroom B - Ballroom B
DNA Swim School – Part 1: Floating with One DNA Match
Welcome to DNA Swim School! In this beginner-friendly session, we’ll help you get your footing—er, floating—by focusing on just one DNA match. If your match list feels like the deep end, this is your life jacket.
We’ll show you how to set a simple, clear research goal, then guide you through how to choose a match that can help you take your first meaningful step. You’ll get a friendly walkthrough of your testing company’s match list tools (no goggles required!), so you know what all those menus, labels, and numbers are really telling you.
This class is perfect if you’re brand-new to DNA or you’ve tested and then felt stuck. You’ll walk away more confident navigating your match list—and ready for your next swim lesson. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- Ballroom G - Ballroom G
Finding Living African Relatives Through DNA and Ancestral Storytelling
Millions of African Americans take DNA tests yet remain disconnected from the heart of their heritage—living family in Africa. Most receive broad regional estimates without a pathway forward. This session introduces a groundbreaking method that bridges that gap.
Prince Jon James Olomo—also known as Prince Omowale, a Yoruba royal descendant and founder of Tribal Tapestry—shares how his team blends commercial DNA results with genealogical tools, AI, and ancestral storytelling to reconnect clients with their African relatives, both virtually and in person.
Attendees will learn how to trace African lineages, decode tribal names, and even message relatives identified through multiple online platforms. By weaving together oral histories and digital data, this method transforms vague ethnicity results into living, breathing family connections.
This session is for anyone ready to move from percentages to people—and turn a DNA test into a living legacy. - OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
Tools and Resources for Chinese Genealogical Research
Are you beginning your journey into Chinese family history? This class will introduce essential tools and resources to help you get started with Chinese genealogical research. We’ll explore how to use FamilySearch’s Chinese Research page, the Research Wiki, and the Jiapu (family book) search feature. You’ll also learn about language tools, translation aids, and strategies for identifying ancestral villages and interpreting Chinese names. Whether you're just starting or looking to expand your research, this class will provide practical guidance to help you uncover your Chinese heritage. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 255 BC - 255 BC
Immigrant Experiences: How to Use Community Context to Transform Family Stories
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyThe stories of our ancestors who left home to start over in a new city or country comprise much more than ship manifests and census reports. Using examples from Dutch, German, and Southern migration to the U.S. Great Lakes region, learn how to discover and understand the cultural and local context of the communities your ancestors helped build, and how to narrate stories with a depth of historical perspective and emotional connection. - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 155 EF - 155 EF
Voices That Vanish: How to Capture Family Stories That Matter
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyEveryone has a story but not everyone gets the chance to tell it. Family members hold memories, traditions, & personal histories that don’t appear in any census or vital record. This session will teach you how to capture those voices before they vanish. Learn how to plan & conduct effective interviews with relatives, from choosing the right questions to navigating emotional moments. We’ll cover recording options from simple smartphone setups to more advanced tools, offer tips for making interviews feel natural, respectful, & meaningful. You’ll also learn how to preserve your recordings for future generations, including transcription, consent, & sharing strategies. Whether you want to document a grandparent’s early years, a sibling’s memories, or your own life story, this session gives you the confidence & tools to begin. If you’ve ever wished you could go back & ask just one more question don’t wait. Learn how to ask now.
A mobile device is required for this session. - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 150 - 150
Tax Tracks: Navigating Federal Tax Records for Genealogical Research
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyFederal tax research can provide valuable insights into the lives of your ancestors, offering a deeper understanding of their financial situations, occupations, and community roles and much more. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- Ballroom E - Ballroom E
Italian Genealogy for Beginners
Curious about your Italian roots but not sure where to begin? Italian Genealogy for Beginners is the perfect starting point for anyone interested in tracing their Italian ancestry. This session introduces the basics of Italian family history research, including naming customs, key record types, and how to find and use online resources like FamilySearch and Il Portale Antenati. Whether you’re just starting your family tree or hoping to jump the pond to Italy, this class will give you the tools and confidence to begin your journey. No Italian language skills required! - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 155 D - 155 D
Surnames, Clans and Tartans: Help or Hindrance for Your Scottish Research?
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyDo any surnames in your ancestry start with Mc or Mac? Or perhaps you have another common Scottish surname like Stewart, Gordon or Campbell? If you've ever wondered about links to the clans of the Scottish Highlands, and debated over which tartan you should be wearing then this is the session for you!
During this session you will learn about different types of surnames in Scotland and why not every Scottish surname connects to a clan. We will cover a brief history of clans and tartans, and look at how to research accurately back through the generations to make a firm link with a clan. We shall also touch briefly on Y-DNA testing, and how this has been used to prove deep Scottish ancestry. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 250 - 250
Save Your Stories: Master Ancestry Tools for Preserving and Sharing Family Discoveries
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyWhat happens to your Ancestry account and all those stories you've uncovered when you're gone? Learn about Ancestry tools to preserve photos, capture family voices, share your tree strategically, and create a legacy plan for your research and DNA. Walk away with practical steps to ensure your hard-won discoveries remain accessible and meaningful for your children, grandchildren, and beyond.
Sponsored by Ancestry®
(1 session)
- OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Hall E - Hall E
RootsTech 2026 | General Session 1 | Marlee Matlin and Steve Rockwood
Join us for General Session 1 at RootsTech 2026 with an inspiring keynote address from award winning actress Marlee Matlin, FamilySearch CEO Steve Rockwood and news and updates from our platinum sponsor Ancestry.
(4 sessions)
- OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
Your Genes, Your Story: Exploring MyHeritage DNA with Gal Zrihen
Your DNA holds powerful clues about your family’s past — and MyHeritage is making it easier than ever to unlock them. In this session, you’ll explore the latest tools and features MyHeritage DNA offers to help you connect with relatives, understand your origins, and uncover meaningful stories hidden in your genes. From advanced DNA Matches and ethnicity reports to cutting-edge features like the recently updated Theory of Family Relativity™, MyHeritage DNA continues to revolutionize the way we explore our roots. Whether you’re new to DNA or looking to dig deeper, this lecture will guide you every step of the way.
Sponsored by MyHeritage - OnlineThis session is onlineIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate
Reclaiming the Past: Analyzing Southern Claims Commission Files for Genealogical Research
After the U.S. Civil War, over 22,000 claims were filed against the federal government for lost property and revenue by southerners who were loyal to the Union during the war. This class will introduce the historical background of the Southern Claims Commission, the genealogical value of these records, and how to analyze the information and use it to reach sound genealogical conclusions.
Sponsored by FamilySearch - OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
Social and Civic Clubs: Discovering your Ancestors Community Involvement
In every community, there were dozens of social and civic clubs to be a part of and volunteer for. Garden Clubs, Home Demonstration Clubs, Historical Societies, Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs, and so many more. Were your ancestors part of these clubs? Learn from a professional genealogist and archivist about the records that could be available in archives in the United States and other countries for genealogists to learn about their ancestors who volunteered for and made a difference in their communities.
This presentation will cover:- Our Ancestors were not Hermits
- What is a Social Club?
- What is a Civic Club?
- Before there were Government Programs
- Volunteerism and Your Ancestor
- Church Social and Civic Clubs
- Men, Women, and Children, They All Volunteered
- Finding Social and Civic Club Records in the United States and Other Countries
- Finding Your Ancestor Volunteering in Unexpected Groups and Organizations
- OnlineThis session is onlineIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate
Finding and Accessing French Archives Online
Are you aware that over the past decade, nearly all French historical vital records have become available free online? There's a catch however: without a known date and municipality, you need to use indexes or other pointers to avoid endless online page turning. In this session, we will discuss retrieval methods specific to birth, marriage, and death records, censuses, military records, and more. We will cover the standard classification of French archival records, the Tables Décennales contemporary ten-year indexes, navigating some of France's different Archives Départementales sites including downloading high-quality images, decoding cryptic source references in online trees, and the usefulness of marginal notes which are always absent from online indexes. Learn efficient pathways to your ancestors’ documents!
(19 sessions)
- OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom B - Ballroom B
What’s New at Ancestry®
For more than 40 years, Ancestry has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation in service of our community by making significant DNA advancements, adding billions of records, and making family history discoveries easier than ever before. Join Ancestry Corporate Genealogist, Crista Cowan, for the annual look at what new tools and records have been made available over the past year and what to expect in 2026.
Sponsored by Ancestry® - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom A - Ballroom A
Genealogy Youtubers Panel
Are you interested in learning about the genealogy community on youtube? Are you already active on youtube and have some channels you absolutely love watching? Are you thinking about creating your own genealogy youtube channel? Come meet some of the influential genealogists on youtube, learn about the community that has grown on youtube, and hear how they built their own channels! The panel will then open up to questions from the audience. The panel will include Connie Knox of Genealogy TV, Jarrett Ross of GeneaVlogger and Professional Genealogist Reacts, Amy Johnson Crow of Genealogy with Amy Johnson Crow, and Aimee Cross of Genealogy Hints. - In personThis session is in personAdvanced/ProfessionalThis session has a skill level of Advanced/Professional- 255 A - 255 A
Strategies to Analyze Endogamous DNA
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyLearn strategies to overcome endogamy’s challenges, prioritize DNA matches, and identify genuine connections using chromosome mapping and segment analysis. - OnlineThis session is onlineIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate
Tracing Transnational Lives: Bridging Records Between Countries
Uncover strategies for researching ancestors who crossed borders. This session highlights lesser-known European and North American record sets, explores name and language variations, and introduces translation tools to help genealogists follow immigrant families across oceans, languages, and generations. - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 255 D - 255 D
Getting Started: An Introduction to Latin American Research
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyThis session will introduce researchers to the rich sources available for genealogical research in Latin America and the best methodologies to be successful.
This beginner-level session is sponsored by the BYU Family History Program. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom H - Ballroom H
Genealogists Get Geeky! A Candid Chat on Methodology Redux
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyTwo board-certified genealogists engage in an unscripted and animated discussion about methodology concepts they value. Audience questions are encouraged and can be submitted through the RootsTech app. Come be a fly on the wall... - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 155 EF - 155 EF
Don’t Believe Everything You Find: Evaluating Genealogy Sources
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyYou found a record. Great! But does it really say what you think it says? And does it actually fit your ancestor? In this session, we’ll talk about how to take a good, honest look at those exciting finds, figure out what’s solid, what’s a little shaky, and what needs more digging. You’ll learn easy ways to evaluate your sources and evidence, so you don’t waste time chasing the wrong people. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- Ballroom E - Ballroom E
Civil and Parish Records in Italy: From the Council of Trent to the 20th Century
Do you have Italian ancestry or an interest in Italian genealogy? This lecture is an invitation to dive into the fascinating trajectory of Italy’s parish and civil records — from the Council of Trent to the early 20th century.
What you will discover:
• The evolution of Italian parish records, with real examples in Latin and Italian.
• The transition to civil registration, from the 1806 Napoleonic model to 20th-century formats.
• Where and how to locate records, both online and in-person.
• How to interpret documents and identify the information most relevant to your family tree. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAdvanced/ProfessionalThis session has a skill level of Advanced/Professional- 255 EF - 255 EF
When Nothing Found Means Something: Negative Search Results vs. Negative Evidence
Getting no results in your genealogy research can be frustrating, but sometimes those empty searches actually provide valuable evidence. Learn to distinguish between negative search results (simply finding nothing) and negative evidence (when the absence of records proves something meaningful about your ancestor).
This session uses the Henderson Weatherford case study to demonstrate how missing records can be just as informative as finding them. Discover how Henderson's absence from the 1861 Dallas County tax lists and census records helped establish his death timeline between 1861 and 1863. See how negative search results in these critical record sets, combined with positive evidence of son-in-law tax payments acting as his agent, created a compelling narrative about his final years. You'll learn to evaluate when your negative search results represent meaningful evidence versus coincidental gaps in record-keeping. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 255 BC - 255 BC
America 250 Series: Historical and Genealogical Importance of America’s Forgotten Patriots
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyAs we approach our nation’s America 250, the Semiquincentennial of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of our great nation, it is essential that we are reminded of our founding principles, and that all voices and sacrifices that help shape our nation's founding are recognized. Nearly 10,000 Americans of African and Indigenous ancestry contributed to the Revolutionary War effort, but unfortunately their stories have been minimized or forgotten from history. Their descendants are unaware of their ancestors’ crucial roles in shaping our nation's history and in its founding. By highlighting their contributions, we hope to enrich the historical narrative by reevaluating, recontextualizing and honoring the legacy and collective understanding of the diverse tapestry of American history and our nation’s Forgotten Patriots, and to provide a historical and genealogical roadmap for their descendants. - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 250 - 250
Your Ancestor's FAN Club
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyLearn to get past brick walls by identifying, prioritizing, and researching your ancestor’s family, associates, and neighbors. Successful examples will be provided. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 155 A - 155 A
Got Old Negatives? Scan Them With Your Phone and These 5 (Mostly) Free Apps!
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyAre your old film negatives wasting away in a box in the closet? Let’s bring them to life so you can enjoy them! Nowadays, scanning film negatives with your smartphone is quick, easy, and inexpensive. Find out how with these five apps! - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 355 BC - 355 BC
Where Do You Keep Your Memories? I’ll Show You Where I Keep Mine – FOREVER!
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyIn this session, Glen Meakem, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of FOREVER, will ask a question of critical importance. How and where are you saving and sharing all your family memories (photos, videos, documents, audio files, and stories) today and for generations into the future? He will then demonstrate how he is saving and sharing his family stories, history, beliefs, and culture with his permanent cloud storage and sharing account at FOREVER.COM.
Glen will encourage audience members to participate in this classroom session by asking questions and sharing experiences. Glen will demonstrate the full suite of capabilities within his account, including exciting new AI features, and he will also share a glimpse into the future of FOREVER.
The goal of this session will be for participants to leave with an understanding of the long-term risks to their precious family memories and the long-term solution that is available to them now and for generations to come at FOREVER.
Sponsored by FOREVER - OnlineThis session is onlineBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner
Finding Cousins & Confirming Connections: Practical Strategies for Descendancy Research
Learn how to trace forward from a known ancestor to find living relatives and build out descendant lines with confidence. This class explores practical strategies for conducting post-1900 descendancy research using obituaries, vital records, newspapers, directories, and online tools. You'll also discover how to use social media ethically and effectively to uncover family clues, and how DNA results can support your findings and help confirm relationships. Whether you're building trees to support DNA matches, solve brick walls, or connect with living cousins, this session will give you the tools and techniques to navigate modern genealogy research with clarity and purpose. - OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
Genealogy for your Descendants
What will your descendants truly know about you? Not the dates, not the records, but the person behind them.
In this moving and eye-opening lecture, we explore the stories, memories, and small everyday moments that shape the legacy we leave behind. From ancient cave walls to today’s digital clouds, we trace humanity’s need to say we were here. You’ll discover how to document your life with intention, preserve your voice for future generations, and create a legacy of the heart that will outlast time.
Come hear why every unrecorded day is a piece of history lost forever.
Sponsored by MyHeritage - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 151 - 151
Beginning Scandinavian Research
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyResearching Scandinavian ancestors can feel daunting—foreign languages, unique naming customs, and unfamiliar handwriting often overwhelm new genealogists. This session will demystify the process and equip you with practical strategies to confidently navigate Scandinavian records.
You’ll learn how cultural context and historical events shaped the lives of your ancestors, discover tools to pinpoint one family among countless patronymics, and explore the major record groups essential for successful research. Leave this class empowered with the knowledge and confidence to say, “I can do this!” - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 150 - 150
Finding Parents: A Proven Research Methodology
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyGo beyond the beginning and plan your research methodology to bring successful results. Learn about finding, analyzing, and correlating sources to prove ancestors. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 251 - 251
Emerald Isle Express: An Introduction to Researching Irish Ancestors
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyDiscover the variety of Irish record sets available, where to find which records, and how to learn the stories of your Irish ancestors. - OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
Musical Memories | Transforming Family History into Song with AI
What if the stories in your family tree could become music? In this session, you’ll learn how today’s AI tools can turn treasured memories, ancestor details, and personal histories into heartfelt original songs. We’ll walk through how to shape real family experiences into lyrics, choose the right tone and emotion, and let AI help bring the melody to life. You’ll see practical examples, get simple frameworks to follow, and discover just how easy—and meaningful—it can be to create musical tributes that honor the people who shaped your story.
Sponsored by Storied
(19 sessions)
- OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom G - Ballroom G
FamilySearch for Latinos: Using AI to Grow Your Tree
Get Involved contains very important material for Latinos. One of the best activities is the Family Review where you can edit historical Ibero-American records that were artificially indexed. Not only that, but you can even select to review records for a specific country, city, and surname. Using FamilySearch powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers you multiple ways to grow your tree. For example, you have access to Computer-Generated Trees (CGT) and Record Hint Review to expand your tree. We will show you how to communicate with your computer to harness the power of AI Research Assistant. Finally, we will explore how best to continue sharing valuable information with one another using FamilySearch Community Forum. - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 250 - 250
AI Meets Archives: Enhancing Historical Records Through AI
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyDiscover how artificial intelligence is transforming archival research. This session explores AI tools used to transcribe, translate, and analyze historical records—including materials from The Genealogy Center—while addressing the benefits, limitations, and ethics of automation in genealogical research.
Attendees will benefit from being familiar with genealogical records and comfortable using basic digital tools for research. - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 251 - 251
Digging for Death Records: The Date, Place, and Story
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyIn the evening, below the sandstone cliffs of Zion, my grandmother, recited “The Legend of Henoakled and Evaletta.” Years later, my interest in the true story of Evaletta’s (Eva Vilate Durfey) death began. This session we will delve beyond the vital statics to explore the story of an ancestor’s death. We will search alternative death records such as newspapers, court records, county histories, published books, coroner’s inquests, and state archives. A case study of Eva Vilate death will demonstrate how these alternative records can recreate the circumstances, weather from tragedy, illness, or mystery, and bring your ancestor’s story to life. Learn strategies to uncover narratives, add emotional depth, and provide context to the date and place of death. This session will allow you to add the story to the date and place of your ancestor’s death.
Participants will benefit from bringing a laptop or mobile device. - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 155 BC - 155 BC
Organizing and Managing Digital Photos: A User’s Guide
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyYou receive photos from many places: relatives, digitized newspapers, online family trees, databases, and (of course) your own phone or digital camera. Experts emphasize the importance of digitizing all those photos—but how do you manage them once you do?
This presentation will help you handle even overwhelming collections of digital photos. We’ll discuss what to look for in photo-organizing software and compare popular options: Google Photos, Mylio, Apple Photos, Windows Photos, and more. Along the way, we’ll learn tips for effectively building—and maintaining—an organizatio system that works for you. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAdvanced/ProfessionalThis session has a skill level of Advanced/Professional- 255 EF - 255 EF
Which Date Is Right? Solving Birthdate Conflicts Through Genealogical Analysis
This case study of an African American woman born in the late 19th century, who left no original birth record, uses analysis and correlation to resolve conflicting birth dates from later records.
Attendees would benefit from an understanding of the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS)
This advanced-level session is sponsored by BCG and ICAPGen. - OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
The Genealogy Puzzle: Putting the Right Pieces Together
Genealogy is like working on a giant puzzle—some pieces are obvious, others are missing, and a few might seem like they don’t fit at all. In this session, we’ll explore how to approach your family history with a puzzle-solver’s mindset.Learn how to sort through clues, evaluate evidence, identify gaps, and make connections across generations and record types. We’ll discuss strategies for organizing your research, dealing with conflicting information, and recognizing when a piece doesn’t belong. Whether you're stuck on a brick wall or trying to assemble your tree with more confidence, this class will help you see the big picture—and find the pieces that bring it all together. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom H - Ballroom H
Using the FamilySearch Catalog Effectively
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyThe FamilySearch Catalog is undergoing some changes. Are you taking advantage of all the resources available through the catalog? Come learn why and how you can use the catalog to locate resources to discover, gather and connect with your ancestors.
Sponsored by FamilySearch - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 155 EF - 155 EF
Deep roots, strong branches: the emotional pull of genealogy
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyHave you ever wondered why we feel compelled to explore our family history? What drives us to spend hours piecing together names, dates, and stories from the past? Whether you’re just beginning your genealogical journey or have been researching for years, this session will go beyond the “how” of building a family tree to explore the powerful emotional, cultural & spiritual motivations that inspire us to connect with our roots. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of personal reasons—such as identity, belonging, healing, and legacy—that influence research, along with the ethical challenges that arise when uncovering sensitive or unexpected family truths. This session offers practical insights on approaching genealogy with empathy & care, helping you enrich your experience & communicate the meaningful impact of your work. Join me to discover how looking back can help us move forward & leave with fresh perspectives and to make your family history journey more purposeful & rewarding. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 155 D - 155 D
What’s New in Family Tree Maker
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyLearn about the top new features in FTM 2024, the smartest, fastest, most ambitious edition ever built. We’ll show how your tree can be instantly fact-checked by a relative halfway around the world on their smartphone or tablet. How the interface grows in just the right places to go easy on your eyes. How you can turn back time to erase mistakes you made even five thousand changes ago. How you can use new and expanded Photo Darkroom tools to rescue old photos. And how Family Tree Maker, TreeVault, and Ancestry.com all work seamlessly together.
Sponsored by Family Tree Maker - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 150 - 150
Genealogy for the Non-Genealogist: How to Engage Family and Friends with Family History
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyYou’re passionate about family history — but how do you get your loved ones interested, too? This lecture offers practical, approachable ways to spark curiosity and inspire friends and family to explore their roots. You’ll learn how to share discoveries in everyday conversation, create experiences that make genealogy feel personal and fun, and tailor your approach to different ages, interests, and attention spans.This session addresses a common frustration: doing the research but feeling like no one else in the family cares. You’ll gain tools to reframe genealogy as something everyone can connect to, whether through storytelling, photos, DNA surprises, or shared family moments.You don’t need a perfect tree or presentation, just the desire to share what you’ve found in a way that resonates.You’ll leave with fresh ideas, simple conversation starters, and the confidence to turn your solo journey into a family-wide adventure. - OnlineThis session is onlineBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner
Death Documentation and Serious Diseases in the United States: 1900 to Present
Death certificates offer a rich source of demographic information useful for the family historian and document the health struggles our ancestors faced. As a physician/family historian, I will provide some unique insights into death certificates and documented causes of death. I will also discuss some common viral illnesses that that have impacted the lives of our ancestors and in some cases continue to impact our world. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom A - Ballroom A
Delving Deeper into your family history: What's new at Findmypast?
From groundbreaking record releases to fresh ways of exploring your family tree, this update showcases why Findmypast is the go-to website for British and Irish genealogy research. Join us as we review highlights from the past year, reveal the records and tools that are transforming research, and share how you can delve deeper into your past to uncover more stories than ever before. Plus, enjoy a sneak peek at what's coming next and see how Findmypast is opening even more possibilities for discovery.
Sponsored by Findmypast - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 255 A - 255 A
End of the Line: Using DNA to Trace Orphan Train Origins
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyUncover the identity of an Orphan Train rider through a combined use of DNA and historical documentation in this revealing case study. Between 1854 and 1929, over 250,000 children were transported from Europe or East Coast cities to families across North America, often with minimal documentation of their origins. This intermediate session follows one child's complete journey from mystery to identification, demonstrating how to navigate placement society records, utilize DNA matches strategically, and piece together fragmented evidence to reveal biological family connections. You'll learn specialized techniques for researching institutionalized children and gain practical strategies for combining genetic evidence with historical documentation in these uniquely challenging cases.
Attendees should have experience with DNA analysis and match interpretation. - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 255 D - 255 D
Researching your Loyalist Ancestors in United States and Canada
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyNot all our early American ancestors were patriots fighting for independence. Approximately one-third of the population in the American colonies at the time were loyal to the Crown, with tens of thousands leaving their homes and taking up residence in Canada’s eastern provinces or England. You can piece together your ancestor’s movements and motivations using several resources. This class will provide you with the historical context, records, and research strategies for identifying and learning more about your loyalist ancestors. - OnlineThis session is onlineIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate
Finding Binkey: When Research Questions Become a Road Map to the Enslaved
Have you been searching for enslaved people in pre-Civil War records for years? Are you having trouble finding them online, in courthouses, libraries and historical archives? If so, do you have clearly defined RESEARCH QUESTIONS that guide you on your journey?
In this webinar, attendees will learn how clearly defined research questions can help them maintain focus, increase efficiency, provide direction, influence their methodology choices, and address gaps in their current knowledge. Award-winning Author and Professional Genealogist, Michael A. Willis, shares the methodology and research questions he applied to find SEVEN generations of his maternal ancestors as told to him by his maternal grandmother when he was eight years old (including his 5x great-grandmother, an enslaved woman named "Binkey").
If you are facing obstacles that you don't know how to overcome, attending this webinar just might be the best part of your day. - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 255 BC - 255 BC
Discovering German Church Records
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyNearly 20% of all Americans claim German ancestry. It is one of the largest ethnicities across the Midwest, Plains, and Pacific Northwest states. For these people, German records are an important part of researching their family history. Many of these records are available online making them easily accessible. This presentation will cover the different online repositories for German church records including site such as Matricula, Archion, various archives, and the major genealogy websites. The most used records include baptism, marriage, and burial records but there are additional records available. Some of these records provide much more information than you would expect. For example, baptism records may also include marriage and death dates, indicate the number of the child in order of the family, and provide immigration details. Examples of various records from the 18th and 19th centuries will be discussed along with the importance of knowing certain German words. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- Ballroom B - Ballroom B
Redcoats and Lobster Backs: tracing British combatants in the American War of Independence
- In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 155 A - 155 A
Taxes and Tithes: Researching Enslaved Communities in Colonial Virginia
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyGenealogists that research the slavery era often long for extant records that list enslaved individuals by name. Usually those records are far and few between, but Colonial Virginia records can be an exception. Annual lists of “tithable persons” provide a surplus of records concerning enslaved communities. While researching Grace Shelton of Louisa County, these records contained valuable clues to her birth year, her physical location, and her various ties to the family of Patrick Henry. The hypocrisy of “Give me liberty or give me death” continues past the Revolutionary War with the creation of “personal property” tax lists that go into even more detail about the human property of these Founding Fathers. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 355 BC - 355 BC
Trace Your Family Home’s Story with Tech and Heart
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyFeel a curious pull to your ancestor’s home? This class will help you unlock the history of family places through practical research and storytelling. You will learn a step-by-step process for uncovering a home’s past, a treasure hunt that will capture your imagination. Follow a case study and learn where to look—title abstracts, fire insurance maps, city directories, and local archives. Utilize AI-powered analysis. Discover crowdsourcing tips and how to weave facts into vivid narratives that honor the emotional power of place. See examples of simple yet compelling videos to share stories with others. This session blends step-by-step guidance with inspiring examples. Note: this class draws from U.S. examples and sources, but many of the principles will apply to other locations.
(19 sessions)
- OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
AI and Family History: Help or Hype?
Are you intrigued by AI tools but unsure how they fit into your family history research? Wondering whether you can trust AI with your ancestors' stories, or how to avoid introducing errors or bias into your work?This session is for family historians who want to better understand the role of artificial intelligence in genealogy - without the hype. We’ll explore the practical uses of AI for tasks like transcription, story writing, and research planning, alongside examples where it gets things wrong. You’ll learn a straightforward framework to help you decide when to use AI, how to interpret its results, and how to keep human judgement and historical context at the heart of your research.No technical background is needed - just curiosity and a desire to work more critically and confidently with AI. You’ll leave with greater clarity, practical takeaways, and a downloadable decision-making tool to guide your own use of AI in family history.
Attendees would benefit from a basic understanding of where AI may be used in Family History and some preliminary exploration of one or more tools. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- Ballroom E - Ballroom E
From Down Under to Your Desk: Beginning Australian and New Zealand Research
Exploring your family history in Australia and New Zealand is like opening a treasure chest—rich, surprising, and full of discovery. In From Down Under to Your Desk, we’ll take you on a beginner-friendly tour of the best resources and strategies for tracing your ancestors in these countries. Whether your relatives were early settlers or recent arrivals, you’ll leave this session with the tools and confidence to begin piecing together their stories—and maybe even uncover a few unexpected surprises along the way!
This beginner-level session is sponsored by the BYU Family History Program. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 155 EF - 155 EF
Travel Like A Pro: Building Research Guides for Genealogy Tourism
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyIf you're ready to travel to an ancestral destination, attend this session and learn how to build a custom research guide and travel plan for your upcoming genealogy tour. Learn the difference between a heritage or lineage trip and what changes when you travel domestically versus internationally. Then build your own guide with step-by-step instructions based on your travel goals.
A laptop or tablet will be helpful in this session. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom B - Ballroom B
Genealogy, Upgraded: AI and Smart Tools on MyHeritage
Family history research isn’t what it used to be — and that’s a good thing. MyHeritage’s innovative technologies make it easier and faster than ever to uncover your ancestors’ stories, and even enable discoveries that were once impossible. This session offers an in-depth look at the tools that are transforming genealogy: AI-enhanced photo features, Smart Matches™, Record Matches, advanced DNA tools, and access to billions of historical records. Learn how to leverage these powerful resources to break through brick walls, find relatives, and build a richer, more meaningful family tree with less guesswork and more results.
Sponsored by MyHeritage - In personThis session is in personBeginnerThis session has a skill level of Beginner- 155 BC - 155 BC
Daughters of Utah Pioneers - preserving the history of the Utah Pioneers who came to Utah 1847-1869
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyFrom 1847 to 1869, Utah Pioneers—members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—migrated to Utah from diverse regions of the United States and around the world. Discover comprehensive genealogy resources at the Pioneer Memorial Museum, offered by the Daughters of Utah Pioneers. Access exclusive pioneer histories, photographs, and collections of artifacts to enrich your family tree research and uncover valuable information about your Utah Pioneer ancestors. Visit the Pioneer Memorial Museum for expert guidance on exploring pioneer genealogy and advancing your ancestral research. - OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
Picture This: 50+ Image Ideas to Enrich Your Family History Story
A single image can spark a memory, reveal a connection, or inspire an entire story. A glance at an old photograph or keepsake can unlock forgotten details, raise new questions, or breathe life into names on a family tree. In this fast-paced and creative session, you'll explore 50 unique ways to use images as a springboard for family history storytelling. Whether it’s a snapshot tucked in a drawer or a scanned document saved to your desktop, visuals have the power to deepen your understanding and make your narratives more personal and compelling.Whether you're writing a book, crafting a blog post, designing a family keepsake, or creating content to share with relatives, this session will help you think differently about the photos and visuals you already have—and the ones you may want to discover. You’ll gain fresh ideas and practical ways to transform images into stories that resonate with readers and preserve your family’s legacy in meaningful ways. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 155 D - 155 D
How to Do Successful Genealogical Research
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyThis session presents research structures that will help you 1) plan you research correctly 2) keep your research on track 3) help you determine if the things you believe are really "facts," 4) help you determine whether you are working with fraudulent information, 5) help you prove whether information is true or false 6) help you prove who your ancestors actually were.
Sponsored by Heritage Genealogical College - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 255 BC - 255 BC
An Archivist's Guide to Preserving and Managing Your Family Treasures
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyLearn practical and affordable ways to care for your family's heirlooms from a professional archivist. This course covers how to store, handle, and display items such as photographs, textiles, furniture, china, documents, books and more, while protecting them for future generations. You'll leave with actionable tips and strategies, trusted resource recommendations, and the confidence to preserve your family's heirlooms for generations to come. - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 150 - 150
Creating True Connections: Navigating Unexpected Family Lines
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyLearn strategies for building an accurate family tree with complexities like adoption, illegitimacy, and unknown parentage, focusing on uncovering connections and ethical, sensitive record-keeping. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAdvanced/ProfessionalThis session has a skill level of Advanced/Professional- 255 EF - 255 EF
Provenance & Proof: Advanced Strategies for Finding and Using Manuscripts In Your Research
Manuscripts are more than historical artifacts; they are silent witnesses that can transform your genealogical research. This session will explore how to locate and analyze valuable manuscripts, including minister journals, lawyer notebooks, personal papers, and unpublished family histories, found in both major repositories and local collections. We will dive into the complexities of working with manuscripts, including evaluating provenance, identifying authors and transcribers, comparing manuscript versions, and extracting reliable data from uncited or edited materials. Attendees will learn how to incorporate scripted evidence into genealogical proof arguments, how to overcome challenges with unsourced content, and discover underutilized resources that can break through research barriers. This session is designed for professional genealogists looking to expand their research toolkit and tackle the complexities of manuscript-based evidence.
Attendees would benefit from having a strong foundation in genealogical research methods, understanding how to work with primary sources, and a basic knowledge of archival research.
This advanced-level session is sponsored by BCG and ICAPGen. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 250 - 250
Yes, You Can Research with AI
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyEarly AI tools were prone to errors and made up fake answers regularly. The current crop of AI tools can reliably and efficiently support your research efforts, especially when you use them responsibly. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 155 A - 155 A
Earn Family History Research Certificates through BYU-Pathway
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyDiscover how BYU-Pathway can help you build meaningful skills in Family History Research. You'll learn how BYU-Pathway works, and have the opportunity to hear from current and graduated Family History Research certificate earners. These student panelists will share their experience studying Family History Research and address any audience questions.
Sponsored by BYU-Pathway Worldwide - OnlineThis session is onlineAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels
DNA’s FAN Club: Using Shared Matches To Solve Genealogical Mysteries
Friends, Associates, and Neighbors help with our paper trail research, and shared DNA matching is just as critical. We’ll explore the powerful DNA tool. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 151 - 151
Mitochondrial DNA to Z: My Results Are Back, Now What?
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyWould you like to understand how to use your mitochondrial DNA results for genealogy? What do those numbers means and why are they important? This is just the class for you. We will take results, step-by-step through all of the reports and tools and help you interpret what they mean and how to use them for genealogy. - OnlineThis session is onlineIn personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- Ballroom A - Ballroom A
Finding and Using U.S. Obituaries More Effectively
Obituaries can help you reconstruct families and find missing relatives, whether you’re doing genealogy or building trees for DNA matches. Learn strategies for finding obituaries based on the era, as far back as the early 1800s, clear up to recent ones that don’t appear in newspapers. Learn to access obituaries in newspapers online and offline. Learn about major obituary portals, and consider how to evaluate their content. Learn a trick for finding citations for unidentified news clippings. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 255 A - 255 A
Researching in New York: Onsite Strategies and Tips
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyOnline records take us only so far. Learn strategies and tips for onsite family history research in New York State. Discovery resources about where to research across the New York State. Learn the step to take before you arrive, as well as what to do onsite. Whether you are searching upstate or downstate, these steps and tips will ease your way into the Empire State. - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- Ballroom H - Ballroom H
Before They Married: Discovering Italian Marriage Supplements
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyThere’s more to an Italian marriage than just the certificate! This session introduces Italian marriage supplements known as allegati and processetti—these are packets of documents gathered before a marriage could take place. These records often include birth, death and other documents needed before a couple could marry. Learn what these marriage supplements are, where to find them, and how to use them to uncover new family connections in your Italian research. - In personThis session is in personAll LevelsThis session has a skill level of All Levels- 355 BC - 355 BC
Don't Let Your Memories Fade: The Social and Health Benefits of Photos, Stories, and Reminiscing
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyDiscover how viewing photos and doing family history improves brain health – by exercising your brain, creating and keeping connection, resulting in improved aging.
In this special presentation, Vivid-Pix shares research-backed strategies and activities that anyone can use to keep memories alive — for yourself, your family, and future generations.
You’ll learn:
- Why photos are one of the most effective tools for memory retention
- How Reminiscence Therapy supports brain health and improves cognition
- Ways caregivers and family historians can use photos to create meaningful conversations
- Simple activities you can do at home to connect with loved ones and preserve your stories
- How Vivid-Pix integrates story capture and memory features into their simple-to-use tools
Whether you're preserving your own family collection, caring for parents, or supporting clients, this session will give you practical and heartwarming ideas for using photos and family history to promote well-being. - In personThis session is in personIntermediateThis session has a skill level of Intermediate- 355 BC - 355 BC
Discovering England Parish Chest Records
This class is not available onlineThis session is in person onlyParish Chest Records were created by the parish vestry and their records cover a wide range of information that cannot be found anywhere else. Some of the most valuable records list whole families, or the name of an illegitimate child’s father. You can also find little bits of information about your family that can shed light on their lives and help you solve difficult research problems. Come learn about the roles of the vestry members, the records they created, and where to find these records. In the past, Parish Chest Records could be time consuming to search, but thanks to FamilySearch’s Full-Text Search these records are becoming easier to search as more collections are added.