Something exciting for all genealogists in the Peoria area is coming to the Hotel Pere Marquette on October 23. This annual event is usually held in the Chicago area. It will be “playing in Peoria” this year.
Take advantage of the marvelous speakers who will help you get the most out of your research. The featured speaker is Curt Witcher from Fort Wayne IN. Witcher, the general manager of the genealogy department of the Allen County Public Library, will share his vast knowledge of genealogy and research methods whether it be getting the most from web searches to military and church records. Sue Kaufman, current curator for the genealogy department in the Houston TX Public Library, will provide insight into newspapers records, funeral records, and criminal documents. Tim Pinnick will share his knowledge of coal miners’ records and military records. Jeff Bassett will speak on DNA projects; Larry Pepper, professional photographer, discusses digital photo repair; and Jane D Haldeman will explain how to use Google earth to find where your historical family resided on present day maps.
The one-day conference will be at the Hotel Pere Marquette, downtown Peoria. Pre-registration has already begun. Cost of registration before September 30 is $35 for ISGS members/ $45 for non members. You can still come on the day of the conference for $55. Registration forms are available through genealogy societies statewide, through local libraries, and online at http://www.usgennet.org/usa/il/county/peoria1 or at http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~ilsgs. Lunch is included in the entry fee.
New this year is a Youth Workshop. Students ages 12 – 15 can take advantage of this new program to learn the art of interviewing relatives and tracking ancestors. The Youth Workshop is from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the hotel on the same day. Cost of the workshop is $20 per student.
There will be many vendors on site with a variety of specialty items, silent auctions and door prizes. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to learn some great tips to help you with your family research. Doors open at 8:00 a.m.