...
Barbara Hemmingsen started her presentation, titled "Infectious Diseases of the Civil War," saying "Even though I'm no longer teaching microbiology, I still love bacteria." It drew a nervous laugh from the 30 or so attendees at the Chula Vista Genealogical Society program meeting today at the Chula Vista South Branch Library.
Barbara has possession of 240 letters from her great-great-grandfather Joseph Bruff, a Civil War officer from Ohio, to his family back home from his three plus years of service, mainly in Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia and Texas. Even though the talk was about infectious diseases, the excerpts from Joseph's letters made this talk come alive. This was a real person that suffered and survived. Barbara says "I know this man better than my own father." What a beautiful collection of letters. She passed a copy of one around sent to his 13-year old son back home telling him not to come help him in the War.
In addition to describing the casualty rates, Barbara discussed the factors involved in deaths from disease, the infection causes in soldiers, the treatment of wounds and diseases, the microorganisms and the symptoms of the different maladies, with gruesome stories and pictures of some of them. Cholera, dysentery, typhoid fever, typhus, pneumonia, malaria, yellow fever, smallpox and body lice were discussed in some detail.
There were very few effective treatments of infectious diseases because the "doctors" did not understand that there were microorganisms that caused and prolonged the diseases. She noted that there the treatment for wounds consisted of bedrest, pain control with morphine, quinine and limb amputation.
The diet of Civil War soldiers didn't help much - salted pork, bacon, beef, flour, corn meal, hardtack, beans, rice, sugar, salt, vinegar, coffee and tea, plus fruit and berries gathered along the roads. In one letter, Joseph Bruff noted that he ate raw bacon because he was so hungry.
Barbara will place the originals of the letters in the Western Reserve Historical Society archives for posterity, and she hopes to write a book detailing all of the persons described in the letters of her ancestor.
This was an intriguing and informative presentation about "real life" people and situations.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Saturday, June 26, 2010
CVGS Program June 30: Infectious Diseases of the Civil War
The June program meeting of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society will be Wednesday, 30 June 2010, at 12 noon in the Conference Room at the Chula Vista South Branch Library (389 Orange Avenue, the southeast corner of Fourth and Orange). Please note the venue change for this meeting - it is at SOUTH BRANCH.
After a brief business meeting, Barbara Hemmingsen will present "Infectious Diseases of the Civil War." Her CV:
Barbara Bruff Hemmingsen earned a B.A. in Bacteriology, an M. A. in Microbiology, and a Ph.D. in Marine Microbiology from the University of California more years ago than she wishes to remember. She then did research in Environmental Microbiology and taught various lecture and laboratory courses in Microbiology at San Diego State University for 30 years.
When she retired in 2004, she began preparing her great, great-grandfather's letters for publication. Joseph Bruff wrote 240 letters to his wife during the Civil War when he served as an officer in the Union Army, 1862-1865. These letters contain a great deal of fascinating military, political, economic, health, and cultural information. As a microbiologist, Barbara was struck by the many references Joseph Bruff made to illnesses, his own and his men.
Her lecture "Infectious Diseases in the Civil War" will introduce the audience to the diseases which were common in America in the middle 1800s, and will provide an understanding of what it was like to live (and die) before the advent of modern medicine.
For more information about CVGS or this meeting, please contact Barbara I. by phone at 619-477-4140, or email at baribai@cox.net.
Please note that this program will be at Chula Vista South Branch Library (389 Orange Avenue)!
After a brief business meeting, Barbara Hemmingsen will present "Infectious Diseases of the Civil War." Her CV:
Barbara Bruff Hemmingsen earned a B.A. in Bacteriology, an M. A. in Microbiology, and a Ph.D. in Marine Microbiology from the University of California more years ago than she wishes to remember. She then did research in Environmental Microbiology and taught various lecture and laboratory courses in Microbiology at San Diego State University for 30 years.
When she retired in 2004, she began preparing her great, great-grandfather's letters for publication. Joseph Bruff wrote 240 letters to his wife during the Civil War when he served as an officer in the Union Army, 1862-1865. These letters contain a great deal of fascinating military, political, economic, health, and cultural information. As a microbiologist, Barbara was struck by the many references Joseph Bruff made to illnesses, his own and his men.
Her lecture "Infectious Diseases in the Civil War" will introduce the audience to the diseases which were common in America in the middle 1800s, and will provide an understanding of what it was like to live (and die) before the advent of modern medicine.
For more information about CVGS or this meeting, please contact Barbara I. by phone at 619-477-4140, or email at baribai@cox.net.
Please note that this program will be at Chula Vista South Branch Library (389 Orange Avenue)!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
CVGS Weekend Program June 27th - "Using Ancestry.com Effectively"
...
The Board of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society recently decided to provide Sunday afternoon programs for members and others who cannot attend the Wednesday daytime meetings.
The first Sunday program will have CVGS Member Randy Seaver presenting "Using Ancestry.com Effectively." This talk will be at 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 27th, in the Auditorium of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street in downtown Chula Vista).
The talk summary is:
The Ancestry.com subscription website has many wonderful features - it's like a lavish buffet where it is hard to choose what to do and how to use it.
o For searches: basic or advanced search; new or old search screens; exact or ranked matches; full names or wild cards; specific or all databases; restricted collection or whole collection.
o For family trees: public or private; one-editor or group editors; GEDCOM upload or enter-by-hand; upload photos and documents; attach historical documents; add stories; "collect" data from others; synchronization with software; etc.
In this presentation, Randy will discuss and demonstrate these issues and offer recommendations for effectively using Ancestry.com databases and family trees.
Randy Seaver is a former President of CVGS, and is the current Newsletter Editor and Research Chairman. He also writes the Genealogy 2.0 column in the quarterly FGS FORUM Magazine and is well-known in national genealogy circles through his Genea-Musings genealogy blog. Randy has 22 years experience in genealogy research and has been doing online research since 1992.
All meetings of CVGS are free for members and non-members to attend. We welcome guests and visitors, and hope that you will want to join our active society. Flyers that announce all of our scheduled programs are placed in libraries, senior centers and other places around the San Diego South Bay area.
If the first two of the Weekend programs are successful, then CVGS will add a program each month for the balance of 2010.
For more information about CVGS, or about this presentation, please contact Barbara by phone (619-477-4140) or email (baribai@cox.net).
The Board of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society recently decided to provide Sunday afternoon programs for members and others who cannot attend the Wednesday daytime meetings.
The first Sunday program will have CVGS Member Randy Seaver presenting "Using Ancestry.com Effectively." This talk will be at 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 27th, in the Auditorium of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street in downtown Chula Vista).
The talk summary is:
The Ancestry.com subscription website has many wonderful features - it's like a lavish buffet where it is hard to choose what to do and how to use it.
o For searches: basic or advanced search; new or old search screens; exact or ranked matches; full names or wild cards; specific or all databases; restricted collection or whole collection.
o For family trees: public or private; one-editor or group editors; GEDCOM upload or enter-by-hand; upload photos and documents; attach historical documents; add stories; "collect" data from others; synchronization with software; etc.
In this presentation, Randy will discuss and demonstrate these issues and offer recommendations for effectively using Ancestry.com databases and family trees.
Randy Seaver is a former President of CVGS, and is the current Newsletter Editor and Research Chairman. He also writes the Genealogy 2.0 column in the quarterly FGS FORUM Magazine and is well-known in national genealogy circles through his Genea-Musings genealogy blog. Randy has 22 years experience in genealogy research and has been doing online research since 1992.
All meetings of CVGS are free for members and non-members to attend. We welcome guests and visitors, and hope that you will want to join our active society. Flyers that announce all of our scheduled programs are placed in libraries, senior centers and other places around the San Diego South Bay area.
If the first two of the Weekend programs are successful, then CVGS will add a program each month for the balance of 2010.
For more information about CVGS, or about this presentation, please contact Barbara by phone (619-477-4140) or email (baribai@cox.net).
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
New or Updated Genealogy Databases - June 2010
Here is a list of the new or recently updated genealogy databases on several large websites for early June 2010:
1) New or Updated Databases at www.NewEnglandAncestors.org (NEHGS, $$)
o See list of all document sets on http://www.NewEnglandAncestors.org/database_search/
2) New or Updated Databases at www.Footnote.com ($$)
o Civil War Maps (66% complete)
o See list of all document sets on Footnote.com at http://www.footnote.com/documents/
3) New or Updated Databases at www.WorldVitalRecords.com ($$)
o Vermont Rolls of Rev. War Soldiers
o New Hampshire Rolls of Rev. War Soldiers
o Spirit of ’76 in Rhode Island
o Pennsylvania in the War of the Revolution
o Pennsylvania Archives, 5th Series, 6th Series
o New Jersey Register of Rev. War Soldiers
o Maryland Muster Rolls of Rev. War soldiers
o Officers and Men of PA Navy, 1775-1781
o Delaware Archives
o Coll. Of New York Historical Society, 1914, 1915
o Civil and Military List of RI, 1647-1800
o See list of all document sets on World Vital Records at http://www.worldvitalrecords.com/contentsearch.aspx
4) New or Updated Databases at www.GenealogyBank.com ($$)
o See list of all available newspaper titles at http://www.genealogybank.com/gbnk/newspapers/sourcelist/
5) New or Updated Databases at www.Ancestry.com ($$)
o Marseille, France Marriages, 1810-1915
o Alpes-Maritimes, France Births, Marriages, Deaths
o US World War II Draft Registration Cards, 1942
o Nebraska Extracted Family History, 1945
o Ontario, Canada Deaths, 1869-1936
o Ontario, Canada Births, 1869-1911
o Dunfermline, Scotland, Journal, 1851-1931
o Many books in German, French, Italian
o See New and Updated Ancestry databases at http://www.ancestry.com/search/rectype/recent.aspx
6) New or Updated Databases at FamilySearch Record Search (Free)
http://pilot.FamilySearch.org
o Nova Scotia Antigonish Catholic Diocese 1823-1905
o Civil War Pension Index Cards (90% complete)
o Massachusetts Deaths and Burials, 1795-1910
o Massachusetts Marriages, 1695-1910
o Ohio Marriages, 1800-1958
o Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Applications Files
o United States Census, 1910 (15% complete)
o Czech Republic, Southern Bohemia, Trebon Archive Church Books, 1650-1900
o Spain, Catholic Church Records, 1500-1930
o Spain, Municipal Records
o Brazil, Catholic Church Records
o Guatemala, Guatemala City, Sagrario Parish Baptisms, 1898-1920
o Miscellaneous Australian Genealogical Records, 1776-1980
o See all Volunteer-indexed databases on the Pilot Record Search site at http://pilot.familysearch.org/
1) New or Updated Databases at www.NewEnglandAncestors.org (NEHGS, $$)
o See list of all document sets on http://www.NewEnglandAncestors.org/database_search/
2) New or Updated Databases at www.Footnote.com ($$)
o Civil War Maps (66% complete)
o See list of all document sets on Footnote.com at http://www.footnote.com/documents/
3) New or Updated Databases at www.WorldVitalRecords.com ($$)
o Vermont Rolls of Rev. War Soldiers
o New Hampshire Rolls of Rev. War Soldiers
o Spirit of ’76 in Rhode Island
o Pennsylvania in the War of the Revolution
o Pennsylvania Archives, 5th Series, 6th Series
o New Jersey Register of Rev. War Soldiers
o Maryland Muster Rolls of Rev. War soldiers
o Officers and Men of PA Navy, 1775-1781
o Delaware Archives
o Coll. Of New York Historical Society, 1914, 1915
o Civil and Military List of RI, 1647-1800
o See list of all document sets on World Vital Records at http://www.worldvitalrecords.com/contentsearch.aspx
4) New or Updated Databases at www.GenealogyBank.com ($$)
o See list of all available newspaper titles at http://www.genealogybank.com/gbnk/newspapers/sourcelist/
5) New or Updated Databases at www.Ancestry.com ($$)
o Marseille, France Marriages, 1810-1915
o Alpes-Maritimes, France Births, Marriages, Deaths
o US World War II Draft Registration Cards, 1942
o Nebraska Extracted Family History, 1945
o Ontario, Canada Deaths, 1869-1936
o Ontario, Canada Births, 1869-1911
o Dunfermline, Scotland, Journal, 1851-1931
o Many books in German, French, Italian
o See New and Updated Ancestry databases at http://www.ancestry.com/search/rectype/recent.aspx
6) New or Updated Databases at FamilySearch Record Search (Free)
http://pilot.FamilySearch.org
o Nova Scotia Antigonish Catholic Diocese 1823-1905
o Civil War Pension Index Cards (90% complete)
o Massachusetts Deaths and Burials, 1795-1910
o Massachusetts Marriages, 1695-1910
o Ohio Marriages, 1800-1958
o Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Applications Files
o United States Census, 1910 (15% complete)
o Czech Republic, Southern Bohemia, Trebon Archive Church Books, 1650-1900
o Spain, Catholic Church Records, 1500-1930
o Spain, Municipal Records
o Brazil, Catholic Church Records
o Guatemala, Guatemala City, Sagrario Parish Baptisms, 1898-1920
o Miscellaneous Australian Genealogical Records, 1776-1980
o See all Volunteer-indexed databases on the Pilot Record Search site at http://pilot.familysearch.org/
Thursday, June 10, 2010
CVGS Research Group meeting summary
..
We had 15 enthusiastic genealogists at our 9 June meeting of the CVGS Research Group. Several of them were beginning researchers or non-members.
* Randy started by discussing the SCGS Jamboree, "cousin bait" and "where to find the 'good stuff'." He noted that web sites with full names, dates and places make good "cousin bait" for a search engine, but you have search in specific online family tree databases too. The "good stuff" was defined as land and probate records that help define relationships, and many can be found on FHL microfilms.
* Jaye had a research problem to discuss - her Aunt Ferol Embody (1896-????) was born in 1896, married Beryle McClelland in Missouri, and divorced him, and died of tuberculosis in her late 30s. She had one daughter, and seven siblings. Jaye wanted to know how to find the death date and location. The group suggested tracking her in the census records, tracing the parents, siblings and daughter, and obtaining family records or newspaper articles or obituaries that might lead to Ferol's death date and location.
* Dolores has a 4th great-grandmother, Elizabeth (Sherk) Wolf, that raised a family in Lancester PA, but was kidnapped by Indians in about 1800 and taken to NC, then lost in the records, according to information on an Ancestry Member Tree. A child was born in NC and died in Oklahoma. She wanted to know how to find out more about the fate of her ancestor. The group suggested looking for journals from nearby forts in Indian Territory, and newspapers around the time of the kidnapping. This lead to a discussion of the Trail of Tears.
* Martha and Mary have a grandmother that was born in Arizona Territory to an English man named Harrop and a Native-American mother. The man was Mormon, and had many wives or consorts. The grandmother died in 1964, and the death certificate does not identify her parents. The group suggested newspaper records, LDS church records, and consulting a Native-American expert for guidance. This lead to a question of how to find which newspapers were published in a given location. Randy recalled that the Chronicling America site at the Library of Congress has a directory of historical newspapers - you can search it at http://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/search/titles/.
* Yolanda noted that she had a relative that lived near present-day Laughlin, Nevada in 1880, but it was part of Bernalillo County of New Mexico Territory. She wondered where she should look for records. The group suggested New Mexico State Archives, Bernalillo County NM records, Clark County, Nevada records, and the National Archives branch at Perris CA.
* Ruth has been in contact with an expert on Spanish genealogy and the Conquest of Mexico, in pursuit of her husband's ancestry.
* Susi noted that browsing through the books on the shelf at the Chula Vista library has paid dividends - she found helpful information on three surnames there.
* The other attendees shared their current research challenges and successes. Several have dead ends in the 1800 to 1850 time frame in NY and PA.
The next Research Group meeting will be Wednesday, 14 July in the Conference Room at the Chula Vista Civic Center Library.
We had 15 enthusiastic genealogists at our 9 June meeting of the CVGS Research Group. Several of them were beginning researchers or non-members.
* Randy started by discussing the SCGS Jamboree, "cousin bait" and "where to find the 'good stuff'." He noted that web sites with full names, dates and places make good "cousin bait" for a search engine, but you have search in specific online family tree databases too. The "good stuff" was defined as land and probate records that help define relationships, and many can be found on FHL microfilms.
* Jaye had a research problem to discuss - her Aunt Ferol Embody (1896-????) was born in 1896, married Beryle McClelland in Missouri, and divorced him, and died of tuberculosis in her late 30s. She had one daughter, and seven siblings. Jaye wanted to know how to find the death date and location. The group suggested tracking her in the census records, tracing the parents, siblings and daughter, and obtaining family records or newspaper articles or obituaries that might lead to Ferol's death date and location.
* Dolores has a 4th great-grandmother, Elizabeth (Sherk) Wolf, that raised a family in Lancester PA, but was kidnapped by Indians in about 1800 and taken to NC, then lost in the records, according to information on an Ancestry Member Tree. A child was born in NC and died in Oklahoma. She wanted to know how to find out more about the fate of her ancestor. The group suggested looking for journals from nearby forts in Indian Territory, and newspapers around the time of the kidnapping. This lead to a discussion of the Trail of Tears.
* Martha and Mary have a grandmother that was born in Arizona Territory to an English man named Harrop and a Native-American mother. The man was Mormon, and had many wives or consorts. The grandmother died in 1964, and the death certificate does not identify her parents. The group suggested newspaper records, LDS church records, and consulting a Native-American expert for guidance. This lead to a question of how to find which newspapers were published in a given location. Randy recalled that the Chronicling America site at the Library of Congress has a directory of historical newspapers - you can search it at http://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/search/titles/.
* Yolanda noted that she had a relative that lived near present-day Laughlin, Nevada in 1880, but it was part of Bernalillo County of New Mexico Territory. She wondered where she should look for records. The group suggested New Mexico State Archives, Bernalillo County NM records, Clark County, Nevada records, and the National Archives branch at Perris CA.
* Ruth has been in contact with an expert on Spanish genealogy and the Conquest of Mexico, in pursuit of her husband's ancestry.
* Susi noted that browsing through the books on the shelf at the Chula Vista library has paid dividends - she found helpful information on three surnames there.
* The other attendees shared their current research challenges and successes. Several have dead ends in the 1800 to 1850 time frame in NY and PA.
The next Research Group meeting will be Wednesday, 14 July in the Conference Room at the Chula Vista Civic Center Library.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
June 2010 Issue of CVGS Newsletter is Online
...
The June 2010 issue of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society Newsletter is available for your reading pleasure at http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cacvgs2/Newsletters/10_06jun.pdf.
Previous issues are also available - see the list at http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cacvgs2/page04.html.
If your society newsletter editor would like to receive an email attachment of this newsletter, please contact us at CVGenealogy@gmail.com.
The June 2010 issue of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society Newsletter is available for your reading pleasure at http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cacvgs2/Newsletters/10_06jun.pdf.
Previous issues are also available - see the list at http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cacvgs2/page04.html.
If your society newsletter editor would like to receive an email attachment of this newsletter, please contact us at CVGenealogy@gmail.com.
Friday, June 4, 2010
In Memoriam: Robert W. Kerney (1920-2010)
Longtime Chula Vista Genealogical Society member Robert W. Kerney passed away on 22 May 2010.
His obituary was published in the 25 May 2010 edition of the San Diego Union-Tribune newspaper (online here). The obituary reads:
ROBERT W. KERNEY Visit Guest Book
KERNEY, ROBERT W.
Robert W. Kerney, 89, was born September 16, 1920 in Chicago, Illinois. He died May 22, 2010. He is survived by his sons Newton with his wife Julie and his grandchildren Joshua, Benjamin, Carlyn of Cotati, CA; Michael with his wife Jeri and his grandchildren Joseph and Kevin of Simi Valley, CA; David with his wife Catherine, and his grandchildren Regan, Shaun, Kyle, and Keith of Escondido, CA; and a daughter Pamela of Bozrah, CT. He was preceded in death by his wives Veretta in 1963, and Marilou in 2003; and a daughter Marjorie.
He became an Eagle Scout at the age of 14. Two sons and two grandsons were also Eagle Scouts.
He graduated from Illinois Institute of Technology with a degree in Fire Protection Engineering. He went into the Navy as an Ensign in World War II. After the war, he returned to IIT and received a BS and MS in Electronic Engineering. He returned to active duty during the Korean War and retired in 1968 as a Commander. He then went to work as a civilian in the Naval Ordinance Systems Support Office, Pacific. He retired again in 1982 as a GS-14.
He was Exalted Ruler of Chula Vista Elks Lodge 2011, District Chairman of Youth Activities, State Scholarship Chairman of the California-Hawaii Elks Association for four years; President, Chula Vista Chapter of the Retired Federal Employees for three years; 1st Vice-President, Sweetwater Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America; member of the Military Order of World Wars, Tau Beta Phi (Engineering Honor Society), Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity and the Navy Mutual Aid Association. He was a Life member of the Chula Vista Elks Lodge No. 2011, the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, the Military Officers Association of America, the National Defense Industrial Association, and the Marines Memorial Club.
Services will be held at the main chapel at Glen Abbey Mortuary on Friday, May 28th, at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the Chula Vista Elks Lodge- Local Youth and Charitable Activities (LYCA)- 901 Elks Lane, Chula Vista, CA 91910.
His obituary was published in the 25 May 2010 edition of the San Diego Union-Tribune newspaper (online here). The obituary reads:
ROBERT W. KERNEY Visit Guest Book
KERNEY, ROBERT W.
Robert W. Kerney, 89, was born September 16, 1920 in Chicago, Illinois. He died May 22, 2010. He is survived by his sons Newton with his wife Julie and his grandchildren Joshua, Benjamin, Carlyn of Cotati, CA; Michael with his wife Jeri and his grandchildren Joseph and Kevin of Simi Valley, CA; David with his wife Catherine, and his grandchildren Regan, Shaun, Kyle, and Keith of Escondido, CA; and a daughter Pamela of Bozrah, CT. He was preceded in death by his wives Veretta in 1963, and Marilou in 2003; and a daughter Marjorie.
He became an Eagle Scout at the age of 14. Two sons and two grandsons were also Eagle Scouts.
He graduated from Illinois Institute of Technology with a degree in Fire Protection Engineering. He went into the Navy as an Ensign in World War II. After the war, he returned to IIT and received a BS and MS in Electronic Engineering. He returned to active duty during the Korean War and retired in 1968 as a Commander. He then went to work as a civilian in the Naval Ordinance Systems Support Office, Pacific. He retired again in 1982 as a GS-14.
He was Exalted Ruler of Chula Vista Elks Lodge 2011, District Chairman of Youth Activities, State Scholarship Chairman of the California-Hawaii Elks Association for four years; President, Chula Vista Chapter of the Retired Federal Employees for three years; 1st Vice-President, Sweetwater Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America; member of the Military Order of World Wars, Tau Beta Phi (Engineering Honor Society), Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity and the Navy Mutual Aid Association. He was a Life member of the Chula Vista Elks Lodge No. 2011, the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, the Military Officers Association of America, the National Defense Industrial Association, and the Marines Memorial Club.
Services will be held at the main chapel at Glen Abbey Mortuary on Friday, May 28th, at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the Chula Vista Elks Lodge- Local Youth and Charitable Activities (LYCA)- 901 Elks Lane, Chula Vista, CA 91910.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Genealogy Days in Chula Vista - June 2010
...
The Chula Vista Genealogical Society events for June 2010 include:
** Wednesday 9 June, 12 noon to 2 pm, Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Research Group meets in the Library Conference Room, led by Randy Seaver. We will review the latest genealogy news, share success stories and information, and discuss members research problems, and potential solutions, based on the collective knowledge and wisdom of the group.
** Wednesday, 16 June, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Computer Group meets in the Library Computer Lab, led by Shirley Becker. We will visit some helpful genealogy web sites. This is an opportunity for those members who haven't used computers for genealogy research to practice with a mentor to guide them.
** Sunday, 27 June, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Special Program Meeting in the Auditorium. The speaker will be CVGS Member Randy Seaver on "Using Ancestry.com Effectively."
** Wednesday, 30 June, 12 noon to 2 p.m., Chula Vista South Branch Library (389 Orange Avenue) in the Conference Room -- After a brief business meeting, the speaker will be Barbara Hemmingsen, speaking on "Infectious Diseases of the 1800's."
** Monday mornings (11 a.m. to 1 PM) - June 7, 14, 21, 28 - Genealogy Table Talk with John Finch in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people with their research, discuss a research problem or success, or just tell stories.
** Wednesday evenings (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) - June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 - Genealogy Help with CVGS members in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people just starting on their genealogy research, discuss a research problem or a success.
** Sunday afternoons (2 p.m. to 4 p.m.) - June 6, 13, 20 and 27 - Genealogy Help with CVGS members in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people just starting on their genealogy research, discuss a research problem or a success.
The Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library is located at 365 "F" Street in Chula Vista - between Third Avenue and Fourth Avenue, midway between I-5 and I-805 (take the "E" Street exit from the freeways). The Chula Vista South Branch Library is located at 389 Orange Avenue (on southeast corner of Fourth Avenue and Orange, enter parking lot east of building on Orange, enter south door that says "Literacy Center").
We welcome guests and visitors to our CVGS programs and events - if you are in the greater San Diego area and want to attend our events - please come and introduce yourselves. Please contact Barbara (email baribai@cox.net, phone 619-477-4140) for more information.
The Chula Vista Genealogical Society events for June 2010 include:
** Wednesday 9 June, 12 noon to 2 pm, Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Research Group meets in the Library Conference Room, led by Randy Seaver. We will review the latest genealogy news, share success stories and information, and discuss members research problems, and potential solutions, based on the collective knowledge and wisdom of the group.
** Wednesday, 16 June, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Computer Group meets in the Library Computer Lab, led by Shirley Becker. We will visit some helpful genealogy web sites. This is an opportunity for those members who haven't used computers for genealogy research to practice with a mentor to guide them.
** Sunday, 27 June, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Special Program Meeting in the Auditorium. The speaker will be CVGS Member Randy Seaver on "Using Ancestry.com Effectively."
** Wednesday, 30 June, 12 noon to 2 p.m., Chula Vista South Branch Library (389 Orange Avenue) in the Conference Room -- After a brief business meeting, the speaker will be Barbara Hemmingsen, speaking on "Infectious Diseases of the 1800's."
** Monday mornings (11 a.m. to 1 PM) - June 7, 14, 21, 28 - Genealogy Table Talk with John Finch in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people with their research, discuss a research problem or success, or just tell stories.
** Wednesday evenings (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) - June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 - Genealogy Help with CVGS members in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people just starting on their genealogy research, discuss a research problem or a success.
** Sunday afternoons (2 p.m. to 4 p.m.) - June 6, 13, 20 and 27 - Genealogy Help with CVGS members in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people just starting on their genealogy research, discuss a research problem or a success.
The Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library is located at 365 "F" Street in Chula Vista - between Third Avenue and Fourth Avenue, midway between I-5 and I-805 (take the "E" Street exit from the freeways). The Chula Vista South Branch Library is located at 389 Orange Avenue (on southeast corner of Fourth Avenue and Orange, enter parking lot east of building on Orange, enter south door that says "Literacy Center").
We welcome guests and visitors to our CVGS programs and events - if you are in the greater San Diego area and want to attend our events - please come and introduce yourselves. Please contact Barbara (email baribai@cox.net, phone 619-477-4140) for more information.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Memorial Day at La Vista Memorial Park
The La Vista Memorial Park and Mausoleum are having their fifth annual Memorial Day Celebration from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, 31 May. The Park is located at 3191 Orange Street in National City CA, 91950.
The flyer announcing this event is below:
There will be the unveiling of a monument dedicated to the "Gone but not Forgotten" by La Vista Memorial Park and the San Diego County Administrator, Public Guardian.
The flyer announcing this event is below:
There will be food, beverages and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. As a special treat, dignitaries (I wonder who?) will be rolling up their sleeves and serving up the refreshments.
There will be the unveiling of a monument dedicated to the "Gone but not Forgotten" by La Vista Memorial Park and the San Diego County Administrator, Public Guardian.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Genealogy 101 Beginner's Workshop a Success!
...
After the PBS television show, Faces of America, and the NBC television show, Who Do You Think You Are?, in the first four months of 2010, many genealogical societies were surprised by a sudden upsurge in interest by people who had not pursued their ancestry or family history before.
The Chula Vista Genealogical Society had planned ahead, and was ready to offer a Genealogy 101 -- A Beginner's Workshop during the month of May 2010. There were four two-hour sessions on Tuesday evenings, with former CVGS President, Randy Seaver, as the instructor.
The curriculum included segments on:
Class 1:
* What is Genealogy?
* Step 1 - The Treasure Hunt
* Step 2 - Organize Your Information
* Step 3 - Find Records and Resources
* Step 4 - Share Your Information
* Step 5 - Join Genealogical Societies
Class 2:
* Genealogy Education
* Vital Records
* Census Records
* Effective Online Searches
Class 3:
* Genealogy Software
* Book Resources
* Military Records
* Immigration and Citizenship Records
* Demonstrating Websites in Computer Lab
Class 4:
* The Genealogical Proof Standard
* Online Family Trees
* Newspaper and Directory Records
* Land and Property Records
* Probate and Court Records
* Parting Thoughts
We had 19 attendees in this class - nine were beginning genealogists, five were new CVGS members with little research experience, and five were longer term CVGS members with some research experience. All were enthusiastic to learn about how to pursue genealogical and family history research. Seven of the nine beginners joined CVGS in the past two months. Randy prepared a class syllabus that totalled almost 70 pages to cover the subjects listed above, and used Powerpoint to teach the class, including many examples from his own research.
At the end of the fourth class, we had a graduation ceremony with each attendee receiving a certificate of completion and a name tag with a golden G affixed to mark their course completion. We also had a class photograph taken:
After the PBS television show, Faces of America, and the NBC television show, Who Do You Think You Are?, in the first four months of 2010, many genealogical societies were surprised by a sudden upsurge in interest by people who had not pursued their ancestry or family history before.
The Chula Vista Genealogical Society had planned ahead, and was ready to offer a Genealogy 101 -- A Beginner's Workshop during the month of May 2010. There were four two-hour sessions on Tuesday evenings, with former CVGS President, Randy Seaver, as the instructor.
The curriculum included segments on:
Class 1:
* What is Genealogy?
* Step 1 - The Treasure Hunt
* Step 2 - Organize Your Information
* Step 3 - Find Records and Resources
* Step 4 - Share Your Information
* Step 5 - Join Genealogical Societies
Class 2:
* Genealogy Education
* Vital Records
* Census Records
* Effective Online Searches
Class 3:
* Genealogy Software
* Book Resources
* Military Records
* Immigration and Citizenship Records
* Demonstrating Websites in Computer Lab
Class 4:
* The Genealogical Proof Standard
* Online Family Trees
* Newspaper and Directory Records
* Land and Property Records
* Probate and Court Records
* Parting Thoughts
We had 19 attendees in this class - nine were beginning genealogists, five were new CVGS members with little research experience, and five were longer term CVGS members with some research experience. All were enthusiastic to learn about how to pursue genealogical and family history research. Seven of the nine beginners joined CVGS in the past two months. Randy prepared a class syllabus that totalled almost 70 pages to cover the subjects listed above, and used Powerpoint to teach the class, including many examples from his own research.
At the end of the fourth class, we had a graduation ceremony with each attendee receiving a certificate of completion and a name tag with a golden G affixed to mark their course completion. We also had a class photograph taken:
Back row, from the left: Carol Thomas, Janice Nevills, Karyn Slade, Jane Dale, Pauline Johnstone, Anita Harman, Kris Harman, Mary Patterson and Jean Moss (with Kevin Brown in back of Anita and Kris, and instructor Randy Seaver behind Mary).
Front row, from the left: Billie Cosby, Marta Brown, Marian Wertz, Olive Lenane, Neva Bridwell and Nancy Yates.
Unfortunately, Ruth Himan, Kirk Rodriguez and Cheryl Van Cleave were absent when the picture was taken.
CVGS President Gary Brock introduced the classes, helped with the projector, and led the graduation ceremonies. CVGS Member Services Director Ruth Himan helped Randy with class attendance, handing out syllabus materials, setting up the computer lab, and bringing in refreshments (cookies, cupcakes, coffee and water) for each class. Thank you, Gary and Ruth!
We've started a waiting list for the next Genealogy 101 - A Beginner's workshop classes - if you want to be on the list, please contact Randy at rjseaver@cox.net.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Bobbie Lane's "Where in the World is Acadia?" Presentation Summary
...
Chula Vista Genealogical Society member Bobbie Lane presented "Where in the World is Acadia?" talk today in the CVGS Program Meeting. Bobbie's CV was presented in "Where in the world is Acadia" by Bobbie Lane on Wednesday, 26 May.
The 30 attendees heard about the history of Acadia from first European settlement in 1605 to present times, and how Bobbie's ancestral families lived through one of history's tragic deportations inflicted on a settled people.
She used a history timeline to discuss important events from settlement of various places in Atlantic Canada (the current provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island) through the many wars between England and France, with the native Indians usually helping the French settlers. And then, in the 1750's, the deportations of French-speaking Acadians to English Colonies, to Louisiana, to England, and to France. Some of those deported to these places eventually migrated to Louisiana and other French colonies. Some of the Acadians escaped and ended up in Quebec and New Brunswick.
Bobbie explained how Longfellow's poem, Evangeline, energized interest in the plight of the Acadians, and led to a resurgence in pride in Acadian heritage.
As she explained each era of Acadian history, Bobbie related how her ancestral families fared - where they settled, resided and eventually migrated. She had two families that fled to Quebec and one that was deported to France but was lost on a sunken ship during the trip. Someone in her line has had a mtDNA test done that indicates that Ann Marie, who married Rene Rimbauld, was a native Indian.
Bobbie used overhead slides of maps and photographs to illustrate her talk. She and her husband travelled to Nova Scotia in 2009 on vacation and learned the history, geography and culture.
Here is a photo of Bobbie speaking and Gary Brock helping by putting up the overhead slides.
After the talk, Susi Pentico presented a certificate of appreciation to Bobbie with Gary looking on:
Chula Vista Genealogical Society member Bobbie Lane presented "Where in the World is Acadia?" talk today in the CVGS Program Meeting. Bobbie's CV was presented in "Where in the world is Acadia" by Bobbie Lane on Wednesday, 26 May.
The 30 attendees heard about the history of Acadia from first European settlement in 1605 to present times, and how Bobbie's ancestral families lived through one of history's tragic deportations inflicted on a settled people.
She used a history timeline to discuss important events from settlement of various places in Atlantic Canada (the current provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island) through the many wars between England and France, with the native Indians usually helping the French settlers. And then, in the 1750's, the deportations of French-speaking Acadians to English Colonies, to Louisiana, to England, and to France. Some of those deported to these places eventually migrated to Louisiana and other French colonies. Some of the Acadians escaped and ended up in Quebec and New Brunswick.
Bobbie explained how Longfellow's poem, Evangeline, energized interest in the plight of the Acadians, and led to a resurgence in pride in Acadian heritage.
As she explained each era of Acadian history, Bobbie related how her ancestral families fared - where they settled, resided and eventually migrated. She had two families that fled to Quebec and one that was deported to France but was lost on a sunken ship during the trip. Someone in her line has had a mtDNA test done that indicates that Ann Marie, who married Rene Rimbauld, was a native Indian.
Bobbie used overhead slides of maps and photographs to illustrate her talk. She and her husband travelled to Nova Scotia in 2009 on vacation and learned the history, geography and culture.
Here is a photo of Bobbie speaking and Gary Brock helping by putting up the overhead slides.
After the talk, Susi Pentico presented a certificate of appreciation to Bobbie with Gary looking on:
Bobbie's son videotaped her talk so that her relatives back in Illinois could see and hear about their Acadian relatives.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
"Where in the world is Acadia" by Bobbie Lane on Wednesday, 26 May
...
The 26 May 2010 program meeting of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society (CVGS) will be at 12 noon at the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street in Chula Vista) in the Auditorium.
The program speaker will be CVGS member Bobbie Lane, who will present "Where in the World is Acadia?"
The 26 May 2010 program meeting of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society (CVGS) will be at 12 noon at the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street in Chula Vista) in the Auditorium.
The program speaker will be CVGS member Bobbie Lane, who will present "Where in the World is Acadia?"
Bobbie (Titus) Lane began her family research in 2004 after she had retired and began to write her memoirs about growing up on a farm in Illinois. It was then she realized that she had very little information about her ancestral roots.
In researching her paternal side of the Titus family, Bobbie discovered the location of her great-great grandparents’ graves. This information was incomplete and incorrect in her hometown, genealogy library, so Bobbie brought it to the attention of the president of the local Lake County (Illinois) Genealogical Society, of which she is a member . The president of the society invited Bobbie to write an article about her findings in the society’s quarterly newsletter, which she did for the fall issue of 2007. Bobbie has also been invited to donate a copy of her memoir, Growing Up On A Farm, to their library.
She was a member of the recent San Diego German Research Group, at which she gave a presentation on her successes in researching her German ancestry. She is a current member of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society and the San Diego Genealogical Society.
In researching her paternal side of the Titus family, Bobbie discovered the location of her great-great grandparents’ graves. This information was incomplete and incorrect in her hometown, genealogy library, so Bobbie brought it to the attention of the president of the local Lake County (Illinois) Genealogical Society, of which she is a member . The president of the society invited Bobbie to write an article about her findings in the society’s quarterly newsletter, which she did for the fall issue of 2007. Bobbie has also been invited to donate a copy of her memoir, Growing Up On A Farm, to their library.
She was a member of the recent San Diego German Research Group, at which she gave a presentation on her successes in researching her German ancestry. She is a current member of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society and the San Diego Genealogical Society.
Bobbie alternates most of her research time between her father’s German heritage and her maternal grandmother’s French Canadian lineage. She has ancestors, who came from France to the Quebec Province in the early 1600’s. That entitles her to apply for membership in the Society of the Daughters of the King and Soldiers of Carignan. Bobbie has a special place in her heart for her other French-Canadian ancestors, who lived in a place once called Acadia, which she visited in the fall of 2009.
She will discuss the history of Acadia, her ancestors in the area, and some of her resources.
All persons interested in genealogy and family history are invited to attend all CVGS programs, which are offered free of charge.
Please enter the auditorium through the Conference Room door so that you can register your attendance, pick up the program and the speaker's handout, buy an opportunity ticket, and have a snack.
For more information about this, and all other CVGS programs, please contact Barbara by email (baribai@cox.net) or telephone (619-477-4140).
Friday, May 21, 2010
Larry Schultheis (1926-2010), RIP
One of the longtime members of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society died this week. His obituary was in the Thursday, 20 May 2010, edition of the San Diego Union-Tribune newspaper on page B5.
The text of the obituary reads:
SCHULTHEIS, LAWRENCE W. "LARRY"
Lawrence W. "Larry" Schultheis passed peacefully at home surrounded by his family on May 14, 2010, after a battle with cancer.
Born on April 26, 1926, in Memphis, TN, he was raised in Marietta, OH. He enlisted in the Navy in 1944 and graduated from Marietta College. A Naval Aviator, he served in World War II and the Korean Conflict and was a fixed wing and rotary pilot, retiring from the Naval Reserve as a LT Commander.
An educator, he taught math and science for 25 years in the Sweetwater Union H.S. District and served as ASB Advisor at Southwest Jr. High School.
The list of service organizations and associations that benefited from his commitment included Knights of Columbus, Alhambra, Boy Scouts, VFW, Elks, Fleet Reserve Assoc., San Diego Opera, St. Rose of Lima Parish, Hammer Club, MOAA and MOWW.
A 54-year resident of Chula Vista, he is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary (Nina), and children Larry (France) of Chula Vista, Susie (Bob) of Colorado Springs, CO and John (Kathy) of Layton, UT, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be Thursday, May 20th, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Greenwood Mortuary, Funeral Mass on Friday, May 21st, at 9:00 a.m. at St. Rose Of Lima Church in Chula Vista, followed by interment at Greenwood Mortuary. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to San Diego Hospice.
Rest in Peace, dear friend.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
New or Updated Genealogy Databases - Early May Report
...
A number of free and commercial genealogy database sites have released new or updated collections in the past month, including:
1) New England Historic Genealogical Society ($$) - www.NewEnglandAncestors.org
o Vital Records of Hallowell, Maine to 1892
o See list of all document sets at NEA http://www.NewEnglandAncestors.org/database_search/
2) Footnote.com ($$) -- www.Footnote.com
o Civil War Subversion Investigations
o See list of all document sets on Footnote.com at http://www.footnote.com/documents/
3) World Vital Records ($$) -- www.WorldVitalRecords.com
o See list of all document sets on World Vital Records at http://www.worldvitalrecords.com/contentsearch.aspx
4) Genealogy Bank ($$) -- www.GenealogyBank.com
o Revolutionary War Soldier Burial Records
o 166 Newspapers from 42 states added
o See list of all available newspaper titles at http://www.genealogybank.com/gbnk/newspapers/sourcelist/
5) Ancestry.com -- www.ancestry.com
o All Obituary Collections updated
o New York Passenger Lists, 1820-1957, Updated
o Queensland, Australia Passenger Lists, 1848-1912
o Many Family History books in French
o 1920 U.S. Census Updated
o Selected U.S. Census Non-Population Schedules, 1850-1880
o Western Australia Post Office Directory, 1910, 1925
o Many Family History books in German
o See New and Updated Ancestry databases at http://www.ancestry.com/search/rectype/recent.aspx
6) FamilySearch Record Search (Free) -- http://pilot.familysearch.org
o See complete list of new databases in New FamilySearch Record Search Databases - 300 million names!
A number of free and commercial genealogy database sites have released new or updated collections in the past month, including:
1) New England Historic Genealogical Society ($$) - www.NewEnglandAncestors.org
o Vital Records of Hallowell, Maine to 1892
o See list of all document sets at NEA http://www.NewEnglandAncestors.org/database_search/
2) Footnote.com ($$) -- www.Footnote.com
o Civil War Subversion Investigations
o See list of all document sets on Footnote.com at http://www.footnote.com/documents/
3) World Vital Records ($$) -- www.WorldVitalRecords.com
o See list of all document sets on World Vital Records at http://www.worldvitalrecords.com/contentsearch.aspx
4) Genealogy Bank ($$) -- www.GenealogyBank.com
o Revolutionary War Soldier Burial Records
o 166 Newspapers from 42 states added
o See list of all available newspaper titles at http://www.genealogybank.com/gbnk/newspapers/sourcelist/
5) Ancestry.com -- www.ancestry.com
o All Obituary Collections updated
o New York Passenger Lists, 1820-1957, Updated
o Queensland, Australia Passenger Lists, 1848-1912
o Many Family History books in French
o 1920 U.S. Census Updated
o Selected U.S. Census Non-Population Schedules, 1850-1880
o Western Australia Post Office Directory, 1910, 1925
o Many Family History books in German
o See New and Updated Ancestry databases at http://www.ancestry.com/search/rectype/recent.aspx
6) FamilySearch Record Search (Free) -- http://pilot.familysearch.org
o See complete list of new databases in New FamilySearch Record Search Databases - 300 million names!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
CVGS Research Group Summary - 12 May 2010
...
There were only eight hardy genealogists at the 12 May CVGS Research Group at the Civic Center Library, but they had some interesting research stories to tell.
* Randy led off by noting the new FamilySearch Record Search databases, mentioned the non-indexed Ancestry.com databases, and passed around the QuickSheets for source citations.
* Ruth was excited to be named to the MyHeritage Top 100 Genealogy Sites list for her Genealogy is Ruthless Without Me blog.
* Gary is still working on his Roff line - he found a militia record for Philip Roff in New York.
* Helen is trying to prove or disprove family stories, especially one that her grandfather helped build the Brawley (CA) Canal in 1930, and died of spinal meningitis in Missouri after an auto accident in California. Her aunt said that the family lost the farm and her mother was left with nine kids and $40. We suggested looking for land, probate and newspaper records to see if the stories can be substantiated.
* Phyllis finished the family history book for her grandson, who was very appreciative. She included family photos, obituaries, stories and an ahnentafel list back to colonial times.
* Virginia's sister is writing down the early family stories she remembers.
* Jaye's cousin is also doing research, and found a newspaper article about her grandfather's death in 1939. The man left his family of eight kids in 1930 and disappeared from Hutchinson, Kansas. Ruth is going to Hutchinson, Kansas this summer on a research trip - serendipity strikes here!
* Dick's cousin's ex-wife called from New Jersey saying that a Viet Nam veteran who served with the cousin wants information to help him get a Silver Star. The man sent military records to support his case, but needed information from the cousin. The cousin died near Tucson, Arizona and is buried at Fort Huachuca Cemetery. Dick has photos of the cemetery and the grave to send to the man.
* Randy described his trip to Salt Lake City, including his day at the FHL and the NGS Conference. He discussed finding and copying the 1637 English will of Thomas Page on microfilm, which he passed around the table, that disproves about 200 online family tree entries for the parents of Susanna Page (1611-1691).
The next CVGS Research Group meeting will be Wednesday, June 9 at the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library.
There were only eight hardy genealogists at the 12 May CVGS Research Group at the Civic Center Library, but they had some interesting research stories to tell.
* Randy led off by noting the new FamilySearch Record Search databases, mentioned the non-indexed Ancestry.com databases, and passed around the QuickSheets for source citations.
* Ruth was excited to be named to the MyHeritage Top 100 Genealogy Sites list for her Genealogy is Ruthless Without Me blog.
* Gary is still working on his Roff line - he found a militia record for Philip Roff in New York.
* Helen is trying to prove or disprove family stories, especially one that her grandfather helped build the Brawley (CA) Canal in 1930, and died of spinal meningitis in Missouri after an auto accident in California. Her aunt said that the family lost the farm and her mother was left with nine kids and $40. We suggested looking for land, probate and newspaper records to see if the stories can be substantiated.
* Phyllis finished the family history book for her grandson, who was very appreciative. She included family photos, obituaries, stories and an ahnentafel list back to colonial times.
* Virginia's sister is writing down the early family stories she remembers.
* Jaye's cousin is also doing research, and found a newspaper article about her grandfather's death in 1939. The man left his family of eight kids in 1930 and disappeared from Hutchinson, Kansas. Ruth is going to Hutchinson, Kansas this summer on a research trip - serendipity strikes here!
* Dick's cousin's ex-wife called from New Jersey saying that a Viet Nam veteran who served with the cousin wants information to help him get a Silver Star. The man sent military records to support his case, but needed information from the cousin. The cousin died near Tucson, Arizona and is buried at Fort Huachuca Cemetery. Dick has photos of the cemetery and the grave to send to the man.
* Randy described his trip to Salt Lake City, including his day at the FHL and the NGS Conference. He discussed finding and copying the 1637 English will of Thomas Page on microfilm, which he passed around the table, that disproves about 200 online family tree entries for the parents of Susanna Page (1611-1691).
The next CVGS Research Group meeting will be Wednesday, June 9 at the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library.
Friday, May 7, 2010
2011 is Chula Vista's Centennial Year
This article was written by CVGS Member Susan Zimmer and appeared in the May 2010 issue of the CVGS Newsletter:
The year 2011 will be a big year for the City of Chula Vista as it will celebrate its 100th year centennial. Many events are in the planning stages and will be of interest to Chula Vista Genealogical Society members.
As Centennial Committee liaison, Susan Zimmer would like to call your attention to some of those events. If you have a special interest in being involved or helping out with any event, please contact Susan and she will pass your name along.
o October 9, 2011 the Tall Ship California will be docking in Chula Vista. Look for more information about visiting the bay that day.
o The historic Home Tour will take place April 30, 2011.
o The City will participate in the Spirit of '45 project, in which interviews will be done with senior citizens about what they experienced and felt on the day peace was declared (Aug. 14, 1945). Some interviewing will be done as projects for students, but experienced genealogical researchers might like to participate, especially if you know of someone, a neighbor or relative, who could recall that important day. The results will be gathered and placed on an Internet "wall".
In addition, a young citizen will be putting together a film documentary of city history. A coffee table book of Chula Vista history is also being put together.
Our society came up with a suggestion to honor Chula Vista residents who are 100 years old.
Other events tentatively scheduled are Chula Vista Night at the Padres, a goal of 100 minutes of physical activity for students, movie night (they hope to show The Attack of the Killer Tomatoes), a Bike-the-Bay event, a bigger and better Fiesta de la Luna, a film festival, a series of art shows, wine tasting, and battles of the bands. Chula Vista churches and businesses will be included in the history and encouraged to have some recognition of the centennial. A specially-designed tee shirt is being planned and marketed.
Researchers are needed to explore some aspects of Chula Vista history. If you know something about a family, a memorable event, a well-remembered business, or a historic moment or someone you know does, please tell Susan.
As more dates are finalized, Susan will alert you to how and when you can join in the fun.
The Chula Vista Centennial Website is at http://ChulaVistaCentennial.org
The year 2011 will be a big year for the City of Chula Vista as it will celebrate its 100th year centennial. Many events are in the planning stages and will be of interest to Chula Vista Genealogical Society members.
As Centennial Committee liaison, Susan Zimmer would like to call your attention to some of those events. If you have a special interest in being involved or helping out with any event, please contact Susan and she will pass your name along.
o October 9, 2011 the Tall Ship California will be docking in Chula Vista. Look for more information about visiting the bay that day.
o The historic Home Tour will take place April 30, 2011.
o The City will participate in the Spirit of '45 project, in which interviews will be done with senior citizens about what they experienced and felt on the day peace was declared (Aug. 14, 1945). Some interviewing will be done as projects for students, but experienced genealogical researchers might like to participate, especially if you know of someone, a neighbor or relative, who could recall that important day. The results will be gathered and placed on an Internet "wall".
In addition, a young citizen will be putting together a film documentary of city history. A coffee table book of Chula Vista history is also being put together.
Our society came up with a suggestion to honor Chula Vista residents who are 100 years old.
Other events tentatively scheduled are Chula Vista Night at the Padres, a goal of 100 minutes of physical activity for students, movie night (they hope to show The Attack of the Killer Tomatoes), a Bike-the-Bay event, a bigger and better Fiesta de la Luna, a film festival, a series of art shows, wine tasting, and battles of the bands. Chula Vista churches and businesses will be included in the history and encouraged to have some recognition of the centennial. A specially-designed tee shirt is being planned and marketed.
Researchers are needed to explore some aspects of Chula Vista history. If you know something about a family, a memorable event, a well-remembered business, or a historic moment or someone you know does, please tell Susan.
As more dates are finalized, Susan will alert you to how and when you can join in the fun.
The Chula Vista Centennial Website is at http://ChulaVistaCentennial.org
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
28 April Program Summary - Myrna Goodwin on Land Records
Chula Vista Genealogical Society Member Myrna Goodwin was the speaker at the CVGS Program Meeting on 28 April at the South Chula Vista Library. There were 38 in attendance. Myrna's talk was "Find Your Roots: Dig Up the Dirt!! Researching Land Records." This review was written by CVGS Secretary Ann Stevens and published in the May edition of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society Newsletter:
Who would have ever thought that hearing about land records could be so interesting?? And who would have ever thought that anyone could get so excited about this topic??
Well, one of our members, Myrna Goodwin, showed us that, while land records often get “no respect”, they can indeed be a valuable resource for us to examine . . . and after hearing Myrna’s presentation, we can all get excited about what we too can find when we “Dig Up the Dirt!”
Myrna began by giving a brief overview of all the information land records can yield: Land records have been around longer than the census has (going back to the early 1600’s); they are more frequently recorded than the census (the census being on a 10-year cycle); and they often provide information about where our ancestors were before they bought the land being recorded. Myrna also explained some of the basic land terms, but she encouraged us not to wait until we understood all the terms before jumping into the dirt to make our discoveries!
Once Myrna gave us the basics, she demonstrated why she is so enthusiastic about using the land records in her research. Similar to the show Who Do You Think You Are? , but without the budgetary constraints, Myrna took us on a virtual trip as she traced her ancestors back multiple generations, taking us to the properties they owned, to the homes in which they lived, and to the cemeteries where they currently reside. She showed us how she started by placing an ancestor in a specific place, and how, through land deeds and local maps, she discovered not only where they moved and who moved with them, but also where they were before and the families in the area. She also noted that frequently family members are listed in the land records, thus giving additional clues about married names, maiden names, and relatives in the area.
By the end of her talk, Myrna had all of us excited whenever she was able to go back another generation, simply by using the available land records often stowed away in those dusty courthouse basements. Needless to say that by the end of the meeting, thanks to Myrna’s enthusiastic presentation, we were all ready to get out there and look up the dirt surrounding our ancestors!
Who would have ever thought that hearing about land records could be so interesting?? And who would have ever thought that anyone could get so excited about this topic??
Well, one of our members, Myrna Goodwin, showed us that, while land records often get “no respect”, they can indeed be a valuable resource for us to examine . . . and after hearing Myrna’s presentation, we can all get excited about what we too can find when we “Dig Up the Dirt!”
Myrna began by giving a brief overview of all the information land records can yield: Land records have been around longer than the census has (going back to the early 1600’s); they are more frequently recorded than the census (the census being on a 10-year cycle); and they often provide information about where our ancestors were before they bought the land being recorded. Myrna also explained some of the basic land terms, but she encouraged us not to wait until we understood all the terms before jumping into the dirt to make our discoveries!
Once Myrna gave us the basics, she demonstrated why she is so enthusiastic about using the land records in her research. Similar to the show Who Do You Think You Are? , but without the budgetary constraints, Myrna took us on a virtual trip as she traced her ancestors back multiple generations, taking us to the properties they owned, to the homes in which they lived, and to the cemeteries where they currently reside. She showed us how she started by placing an ancestor in a specific place, and how, through land deeds and local maps, she discovered not only where they moved and who moved with them, but also where they were before and the families in the area. She also noted that frequently family members are listed in the land records, thus giving additional clues about married names, maiden names, and relatives in the area.
By the end of her talk, Myrna had all of us excited whenever she was able to go back another generation, simply by using the available land records often stowed away in those dusty courthouse basements. Needless to say that by the end of the meeting, thanks to Myrna’s enthusiastic presentation, we were all ready to get out there and look up the dirt surrounding our ancestors!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Genealogy Days in Chula Vista - May 2010
The Chula Vista Genealogical Society events for May 2010 include:
** Wednesday May 12, 12 noon to 2 pm, Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Research Group meets in the Library Conference Room, led by Randy Seaver. We will review the latest genealogy news, share success stories and information, and discuss members research problems, and potential solutions, based on the collective knowledge and wisdom of the group.
** Wednesday, May 19, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Computer Group meets in the Library Computer Lab, led by Shirley Becker. We will visit some helpful genealogy web sites. This is an opportunity for those members who haven't used computers for genealogy research to practice with a mentor to guide them.
** Wednesday, May 26, 12 noon to 2 p.m., Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Program Meeting in the Conference Room. After a brief business meeting, the speaker will be CVGS member Bobbie Lane, speaking on "Where in the World is Acadia?"
** Monday mornings (11 a.m. to 1 PM) - May 3, 10, 17, 24 - Genealogy Table Talk with John Finch in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people with their research, discuss a research problem or success, or just tell stories.
** Wednesday evenings (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) - May 5, 12, 19, 26 - Genealogy Help with CVGS members in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people just starting on their genealogy research, discuss a research problem or a success.
** Sunday afternoons (2 p.m. to 4 p.m.) - May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 - Genealogy Help with CVGS members in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people just starting on their genealogy research, discuss a research problem or a success.
** Tuesday evenings (5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.) - May 4, 11, 18 and 25 - Genealogy 101 Beginning workshop in Conference Room, taught by Randy Seaver. This class is FULL!
The Chula Vista Civic Center Library is located at 365 "F" Street in Chula Vista - between Third Avenue and Fourth Avenue, midway between I-5 and I-805 (take the "E" Street exit from the freeways).We welcome guests and visitors to our CVGS programs and events - if you are in the greater San Diego area and want to attend our events - please come and introduce yourselves.
** Wednesday May 12, 12 noon to 2 pm, Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Research Group meets in the Library Conference Room, led by Randy Seaver. We will review the latest genealogy news, share success stories and information, and discuss members research problems, and potential solutions, based on the collective knowledge and wisdom of the group.
** Wednesday, May 19, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Computer Group meets in the Library Computer Lab, led by Shirley Becker. We will visit some helpful genealogy web sites. This is an opportunity for those members who haven't used computers for genealogy research to practice with a mentor to guide them.
** Wednesday, May 26, 12 noon to 2 p.m., Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library (365 F Street) -- CVGS Program Meeting in the Conference Room. After a brief business meeting, the speaker will be CVGS member Bobbie Lane, speaking on "Where in the World is Acadia?"
** Monday mornings (11 a.m. to 1 PM) - May 3, 10, 17, 24 - Genealogy Table Talk with John Finch in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people with their research, discuss a research problem or success, or just tell stories.
** Wednesday evenings (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) - May 5, 12, 19, 26 - Genealogy Help with CVGS members in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people just starting on their genealogy research, discuss a research problem or a success.
** Sunday afternoons (2 p.m. to 4 p.m.) - May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 - Genealogy Help with CVGS members in the Family Research section of the Chula Vista Civic Center Branch Library. They are ready and willing to help people just starting on their genealogy research, discuss a research problem or a success.
** Tuesday evenings (5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.) - May 4, 11, 18 and 25 - Genealogy 101 Beginning workshop in Conference Room, taught by Randy Seaver. This class is FULL!
The Chula Vista Civic Center Library is located at 365 "F" Street in Chula Vista - between Third Avenue and Fourth Avenue, midway between I-5 and I-805 (take the "E" Street exit from the freeways).We welcome guests and visitors to our CVGS programs and events - if you are in the greater San Diego area and want to attend our events - please come and introduce yourselves.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
CVGS Program on Wednesday, 28 April - Myrna Goodwin on Land Research
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The April CVGS program meeting will be on Wednesday, 28 April at 12 noon at the South Chula Vista Library (389 Orange Avenue in Chula Vista).
The speaker will be CVGS member Myrna Goodwin on the subject “Discover Your Roots – Dig Up the Dirt: The Basics of Land Research.”
Using personal examples, anecdotes and a power point presentation, the program will review the benefits of land documents and maps, what advance preparation is needed for research in courthouses or on microfilm, how to identify the proper location for finding records, plus what to look for in these documents. The basic differences between state-land states and federal-land states will be covered with a simple explanation of the survey methods used in these two different systems. Finally, using the computer records for the Bureau of Land Management will be discussed.
Myrna (Beach) Goodwin is a retired high school speech and drama teacher having taught over 35 years -- 31 of them at Mount Miguel High School in Spring Valley. She was passionate about coaching competitive speech and has turned that passion to family history and genealogy. She remembers seeing her first five generation pedigree chart for her Beach family when she was only about 12. In addition, she has vivid childhood memories of visiting family cemeteries, especially the one in Huron County, Ohio, where six of seven Beach generations are buried.
Currently, she and a first cousin are collaborating on a 275 page Born family history covering over 150 years. In addition, she is working diligently to find ‘lost’ relatives plus coordinate photo and map displays for her Kolbe family’s 100th reunion.
Myrna is a member of New England Historic Genealogical Society, the New Haven Colony Historic Society, the Warren County Genealogical Society, the Huron County Historical Society, and organizations in SD County.
For more information about this meeting, please contact Barbara (baribai@cox.net, 619-477-4140).
The April CVGS program meeting will be on Wednesday, 28 April at 12 noon at the South Chula Vista Library (389 Orange Avenue in Chula Vista).
The speaker will be CVGS member Myrna Goodwin on the subject “Discover Your Roots – Dig Up the Dirt: The Basics of Land Research.”
Using personal examples, anecdotes and a power point presentation, the program will review the benefits of land documents and maps, what advance preparation is needed for research in courthouses or on microfilm, how to identify the proper location for finding records, plus what to look for in these documents. The basic differences between state-land states and federal-land states will be covered with a simple explanation of the survey methods used in these two different systems. Finally, using the computer records for the Bureau of Land Management will be discussed.
Myrna (Beach) Goodwin is a retired high school speech and drama teacher having taught over 35 years -- 31 of them at Mount Miguel High School in Spring Valley. She was passionate about coaching competitive speech and has turned that passion to family history and genealogy. She remembers seeing her first five generation pedigree chart for her Beach family when she was only about 12. In addition, she has vivid childhood memories of visiting family cemeteries, especially the one in Huron County, Ohio, where six of seven Beach generations are buried.
Currently, she and a first cousin are collaborating on a 275 page Born family history covering over 150 years. In addition, she is working diligently to find ‘lost’ relatives plus coordinate photo and map displays for her Kolbe family’s 100th reunion.
Myrna is a member of New England Historic Genealogical Society, the New Haven Colony Historic Society, the Warren County Genealogical Society, the Huron County Historical Society, and organizations in SD County.
For more information about this meeting, please contact Barbara (baribai@cox.net, 619-477-4140).
Saturday, April 24, 2010
CVGS "Getting Started" Seminar Summary
...
We had 25 attendees at the Saturday Seminar on 24 April - including 11 who were not members. Several of them joined CVGS after the seminar. The purpose of this seminar was to provide some basic information to interested persons who might be curious about genealogy research after the Who Do You Think You Are? television series.
CVGS President Gary Brock welcomed the crowd at 2 p.m., and briefly described the contents of the welcome packet (which included the April flyer, the May Genealogy 101 class, the newsletter front page, and the membership application).
After a short refreshment break, Ruth Himan introduced the speaker, CVGS member Susi Pentico, to talk on "Getting Started - Finding Who You Are."
Susi introduced the "Family Laundry Basket" concept of finding those family history items we all have in our homes - the pictures, artifacts, crafts, tools, etc. - and noted that we can start our genealogy research by not going outside of our homes - fill up your laundry basket with those items and understand their significance to your family history. She noted that genealogy is fun and educational, often needs to be done for medical history reasons, and is a way to tie family generations together because they have a common bond.
We were encouraged to listen to our head and our heart about the past - what do I have in my family laundry basket, when and where did I obtain it, and what stories are attached to it? For example, Susi passed around two family cookbooks that she has used for years. Several pieces of furniture - a bookcase with books and pictures on it, a spinning wheel, and a rocking chair -- along with homemade quilts, blankets and clothes, were also brought from homes as examples.
Susi showed many of her family photographs during the talk, talked about family legends and memories, and advised us to start with ourselves on a pedigree chart - then fill in parents, grandparents, etc. as best we can. She showed several helpful charts that can be used in research, and mentioned the importance of maps, vital records, newspapers and cemetery records. We were encouraged to share our research challenges and successes, and to help each other in our research efforts.
Susi's presentation handout included Family History Research Tips, Seven Commandments of correspondence, FREE Websites to Search, Oral History Interview Record, a Research Checklist, and a blank USA Map.
Following Susi's talk, the attendees were encouraged to enjoy the refreshments and to pick up more handouts from the forms table, the library table and the research table where CVGS members could provide assistance and advice. Most of the non-members stayed and talked to the CVGS members about their families and their genealogy, and expressed an interest in starting their family research.
In summary, this was an entertaining and informative presentation that helped CVGS attract community people who might attend the Genealogy 101 Beginners Workshop and become members.
We had 25 attendees at the Saturday Seminar on 24 April - including 11 who were not members. Several of them joined CVGS after the seminar. The purpose of this seminar was to provide some basic information to interested persons who might be curious about genealogy research after the Who Do You Think You Are? television series.
CVGS President Gary Brock welcomed the crowd at 2 p.m., and briefly described the contents of the welcome packet (which included the April flyer, the May Genealogy 101 class, the newsletter front page, and the membership application).
After a short refreshment break, Ruth Himan introduced the speaker, CVGS member Susi Pentico, to talk on "Getting Started - Finding Who You Are."
Susi introduced the "Family Laundry Basket" concept of finding those family history items we all have in our homes - the pictures, artifacts, crafts, tools, etc. - and noted that we can start our genealogy research by not going outside of our homes - fill up your laundry basket with those items and understand their significance to your family history. She noted that genealogy is fun and educational, often needs to be done for medical history reasons, and is a way to tie family generations together because they have a common bond.
We were encouraged to listen to our head and our heart about the past - what do I have in my family laundry basket, when and where did I obtain it, and what stories are attached to it? For example, Susi passed around two family cookbooks that she has used for years. Several pieces of furniture - a bookcase with books and pictures on it, a spinning wheel, and a rocking chair -- along with homemade quilts, blankets and clothes, were also brought from homes as examples.
Susi showed many of her family photographs during the talk, talked about family legends and memories, and advised us to start with ourselves on a pedigree chart - then fill in parents, grandparents, etc. as best we can. She showed several helpful charts that can be used in research, and mentioned the importance of maps, vital records, newspapers and cemetery records. We were encouraged to share our research challenges and successes, and to help each other in our research efforts.
Susi's presentation handout included Family History Research Tips, Seven Commandments of correspondence, FREE Websites to Search, Oral History Interview Record, a Research Checklist, and a blank USA Map.
Following Susi's talk, the attendees were encouraged to enjoy the refreshments and to pick up more handouts from the forms table, the library table and the research table where CVGS members could provide assistance and advice. Most of the non-members stayed and talked to the CVGS members about their families and their genealogy, and expressed an interest in starting their family research.
In summary, this was an entertaining and informative presentation that helped CVGS attract community people who might attend the Genealogy 101 Beginners Workshop and become members.
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