Video for the 14 March 2024 Meeting is now available in Members Login - Video Recordings
Welcome to Pastfinders!
Welcome to the Pastfinders of South Lake County Website.
We are located in Clermont, Florida (From Gem of the Hills to Choice of Champions). The Cooper Memorial Library's (CML) Genealogy Room is our base of operation with monthly meetings, genealogy help sessions, computer users’ classes, Beginner Classes, and special events.
Pastfinders mission is to educate the public on the art and science of preserving family history. Learning about your roots, where you came from, and the struggles your family made to get you where you are today can open one’s eyes to what kind of pioneers our ancestors were.
All the classes Pastfinders of South Lake County Genealogical Society conducts are open to the public and most are free to attend. Our meetings are held from September to May.
During the summer months the only scheduled activity is a weekly Summer Genealogy Chat at the library.
Please see the event calendar on the menu bar for more detail or contact us by Email at info@pastfindersslc.org for more information.
Thursday, April 11 Hybrid Presentation
Meet at the Library at 4:00 PM for Meet and Greet.
Meet on Zoom at 4:30 PM for introductions
Announcements will start at 4:45 PM
Presentation by Allison Ryall begins at 5:00 PM
Allison Ryall is the Genealogy Specialist at the Orange County Library System in Florida, where she effectively manages a wide range of research projects in both traditional and genetic genealogy. In addition to this role, she works as a Forensic Genetic Genealogist at Bode Technology. Allison also contributes her knowledge as a faculty member at Boston University's Genealogy Studies Program, teaching students about research methodology and genetic genealogy techniques.
Topic: Hidden Branches: Unveiling My Unexpected Family Tree
This lecture highlights the crucial role of DNA testing in genealogical research and the significant implications that unexpected results can have. A case study is presented where an individual's DNA test uncovers surprising information, drastically changing their perception of family connections. The session offers an in-depth analysis of DNA testing technologies, the variety of genealogical surprises that may surface, and the methodological approaches for interpreting and integrating these findings into existing family histories. Attendees will gain insights into the value of DNA evidence for revealing hidden aspects of ancestry, the challenges involved in reconciling DNA results with documented genealogical records, and the recommended practices for managing the complexities encountered during these revelations. This exploration aims to provide researchers, genealogists, and enthusiasts with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively leverage DNA testing in their comprehensive quest to understand their family's past.
Your Genealogical Journey Starts Here!
Come to Cooper Memorial Library to learn how to be a Family Historian.
Beginner Genealogy Classes in Room 221 - 1:00 to 3:00 PM.
Registration is Suggested, but Walk-ins are always welcome.
Session 1 - April 3, 2024
Session 2 - April 17, 2024
Session 3 - May 1, 2024
For more information about class details, go to the Events Calendar or click on this LINK
Please arrive early, seating is limited.
Video for the 26 Feb 2024 Meeting is now available in Members Login - Bonus Study Group Videos
2024 MEMBERS Bonus Study Group
Using Family Book Creator® to Tell Your Family History
led by Rebecca Shamblin
The First Meeting was on February 26, but registration is still open to Pastfinders Members until the 2nd meeting on March 25th.
Register in the MEMBER LOG IN section under the Study Group Registration tab.
Free Program opened to all active Members.
For the Course Description, click HERE
Learn more about Family Book Creator HERE
Irish SIG Members please find documents for your review behind the membership wall from previous meetings.
Your host will maintain an email distribution list. You will receive an email several days prior to the meeting with your Zoom link.
How about hosting a special interest group! Do you have a passion for a topic? You do not have to be an expert, just willing to share your special knowledge. We would love to have you host a SIG. Things like DNA, German, British, Or a Research SIG would be fun.