Tom McCarrier, will give an overview of using DNA as a tool for genealogy research. He will also tell of new DNA testing company features or third party tools that were announced at RootsTech 2025. Tom is co-chair of the DNA Special Interest Group of th Anne Arundel County Genealogy Society.

 

 

Just a few years after the United States gained its independence, America was caught up in a global power struggle between Britain and France which has been referred to as “the silliest war we ever had.” Learn about the importance of this war that affected much of eastern North America, produced several great heroes and future presidents, and yet, is often overlooked in both British and US history. We will discuss the major turning points and the diverse perspectives and experiences of different groups, including Canadians, Native Americans, and People of Color during, and as a result of the war. We will review where you can look for relevant records and information to further your genealogical research.  Presented by Kate Penney Howard, a genetic genealogist, who loves sharing her knowledge with other genealogists and has presented at Rootstech and East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference.

 

Thomas MacEntee of Genealogy Bargins will explain that while AI (artificial intelligence) might be the current “hot” buzz word, the fact is that many genealogy vendors and even genealogists have already been using this technology for years. The AI industry is at a crossroads and within the next five years, it will permeate almost every aspect of business and society. Learn how AI is currently being used to improve the genealogy experience, and whether or not you should seek out other uses of artificial intelligence for your own genealogy research.

 

"Tales and Trails". 

On Saturday and Sunday, 24-25 May, expert speakers who are among the best in the field will present over fifty lectures, including:

Records: Ways of Life: Tracing Ancestral Pathways, Power, and Production through the Control of Water

• Learn about the role water played as an important commodity and how it supported occupations, immigration/migration, and the role of government.

Methodology: Beyond Names and Dates: Integrating Social History into your Research

• This panel explores the importance of social history in family research, highlighting how understanding the “where” enriches the “what” and “why” of ancestors’ lives.

Artificial Intelligence: Guiding Principles for the Genealogical Use of Artificial Intelligence

• This panel presents the guiding principles to uphold when using artificial intelligence congruent with existing genealogical standards and ethical practices.

DNA: Understanding and Exploring DNA-Based Unlinked Family Clusters

• Explore unlinked family clusters in genetic genealogy, and learn to identify, analyze, and connect DNA matches lacking common ancestors.

Family Stories and Oral History: A Day in the Life: Creating a Compelling and Documented Family Short Story

• Be inspired and empowered to memorialize the stories that deserve to be preserved.

.https://conference.ngsgenealogy.org/