Getting Started with Genealogy, an introductory genealogy class taught by Jennifer Smith, will be held at the South Branch Library on Thursday, April 28th from 7:00 to 8:30PM. The same class will be held a second night, on Thursday, May 19th from 7:00 to 8:30PM. This program is one of many programs being offered as part of Roots to Kinship, a year-long community engagement project hosted by the Peabody Institute Library.

In this class, you will learn how to get started with genealogy research, such as organizing information and planning and documenting your research and results. The most useful types of records and where to find them, including the major genealogy databases will be covered, as well as tips for successfully searching the databases.

Jennifer L. Smith, PLCGS, is a professional genealogist with expertise in both traditional documentary and genetic genealogical research techniques. Her career in the biopharmaceutical industry provided a foundation in the science of DNA which is directly applicable to genetic genealogy. Jennifer provides comprehensive family history research projects for clients including genetic genealogy when applicable, consultations on research problems or DNA analysis, and coaching for developing genealogists.

Jennifer has been doing family history research for herself, friends and family for over 30 years, having been introduced to genealogy by her mother as a teenager. She began researching seriously over 20 years ago, pursuing more comprehensive research, and attending genealogical conferences and seminars to continuously improve her research and analysis skills. Jennifer’s work on her Revolutionary era Smith family has been published as part of a research project by the eminent New England Historic Genealogical Society.

This program is free and open to the public. Space is limited, so registration is required. More information about Roots to Kinship can be found at peabodylibrary.org/rootstokinship. This project is funded by a grant administered by the Mass Cultural Council.