Roots and branches

Question: I have noticed that there are seminars and workshops on genealogy nationwide, statewide and locally. How would I benefit from attending?

Answer: Even if you are an experienced researcher, you can learn something new to help locate missing ancestors. If you are a beginner, you want to attend all of them.

Some seminars have several classes throughout the day or over several days. You may choose the classes that help you the most. The National Genealogy Society puts on an annual seminar for several days in May, changing location from year to year. This year, California will have a seminar this month in Ontario.

Local clubs also put on workshops or seminars. The Nevada County Genealogical Society presents one every year on the last Saturday of August.

On Aug. 24, Henry Z. "Hank" Jones Jr. will speak on several different topics. He is a a well-known speaker who has taught many classes on the national level. For information on the seminar and registration, contact Joan Bega at 346-8909 or e-mail

Join a genealogical society in your area; most of them have speakers each month. The local society's speakers are drawn from Sacramento, Roseville, Auburn and Nevada County. These knowledgeable people volunteer their time to share their expertise.

There is usually a charge to attend seminars to cover the expenses, but the regular meetings are free.

New: Much of the 1930 census is available at Doris Foley History Library.

Josie Plescia Vaughn is the librarian of the Nevada County Genealogy Society. Send questions to NCGS, P.O. Box 176, Cedar Ridge 95924, or e-mail