Timelines put your ancestor(s) actions and movements into historical context. They also allow us to see where we have gaps in our information, provide clues for further research, and are a good first step in writing a family research book.  Long-time OGS member, Fran Black will walk us through the importance of creating a timeline, the steps of creating a timeline, and how to use that timeline to create a biographical sketch of your ancestor.

Many times, local and genealogical libraries have valuable records in their collections which are not often used. OGS member Rita Wallace will explore some of those records from The Library Center, one of the many libraries that make up the Springfield-Greene County Library System. Included will be the S. C. Turnbo Manuscripts, the Hall Papers, Black Families of the Ozarks collection, and others.

Join OGS member Dan Barnard as he demonstrates how Ancestry DNA tests and tools were used to unravel the family mystery of who the parents of Lula Bunyard were.  It will take you through the family history story, the life challenges and the findings clarifying the life of Lula. This presentation is not meant to be an in-depth review about DNA terminology or understanding, but simply one approach taken to help resolve family mysteries.

Are you wondering what will happen to your years of research finds in the future?  Is no one interested in genealogy in your family?  Do you worry that the family lore and stories will be lost?  White River Valley Historical Society Managing Director Leslie Wyman will showcase a method of creating digital albums that can be prepared without scrapbooking software, showcasing your photographs and family stories while also preserving the "boring" documents that non-researching family members are not interested in!  Handouts will be provided to help you create your own brief digital family histories that are designed to pass on your most important information without putting others to sleep!