EXPAND YOUR GENEALOGY SKILLS

Workshops & Classes

Ready to attract more interest and engagement in your genealogy offerings?

Whether you're a historical society, library, museum, or educational institution, we have the perfect workshop for you.

Choose between engaging lecture-style presentations or hands-on workshops where participants can dive right in and practice what they're learning. Either way, we'll make history and learning fun!

LEARN AT YOUR PACE

Are you the designated family historian?

Our self-paced online courses offer the perfect opportunity to develop new techniques and refine your existing skills. From beginner basics to advanced techniques, you'll find a course that fits your needs and helps you extend your family tree.

Past Speaking Engagements

  • • Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc. (AAHGS) - National Conference

    • Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc. (AAHGS) - New Jersey Chapter

    • Anoka County Libraries (MN)

    • Annual Family History Workshop (Moorhead, MN)

  • • Association of Professional Genealogists (APG) - New England Chapter

    • Dakota County Historical Society (MN)

    • Dakota County Libraries (MN)

  • • Family History Fair (Minneapolis Central Library)

    • Hennepin County Libraries (MN)

    • Jack and Jill of America, Inc. - Johnson County, KS Chapter

  • • The Links, Inc. - Minneapolis-St. Paul (MN) Chapter

    • Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery

    • Minnesota Genealogical Society

  • • Minnesota Historical Society

    • Minnesota Public Radio

    • National Public Radio

  • • Polk County History Center (FL)

    • Ramsey County Historical Society (MN)

    • Red River Valley Genealogical Society (ND)

    • Slave Dwelling Project Conference

Past Classes & Workshops

Beginner Friendly Classes

  • Begin your family history journey with confidence! In this hands-on course, you'll learn essential skills to start building your family tree. Discover how to organize your research, access vital records, and navigate common roadblocks. By the end, you'll have the tools to uncover your family's unique story.

  • Unlock the powerful stories of your African American ancestors! Together, we'll explore the tools and uniquely African-American sources that bring your family history to life. Learn how to honor your heritage by uncovering and preserving the legacy of those who came before you.

  • Curious about DNA testing? Let's demystify genetic genealogy together! We'll explore popular DNA kits, interpret results, and use them to enhance your family research. You'll also learn to navigate unexpected matches and understand the pros and cons of genetic testing in genealogy.

  • Dive deeper into the fascinating world where genealogy meets genetics! Discover how traditional research and DNA analysis work together to unlock your family's past. We'll explore advanced tools, address common misconceptions, and help you leverage both fields to enrich your family history journey.

Focused Topics

  • Step into a treasure trove of family history! Uncover the captivating stories hidden in Civil War pension files. Learn how these documents reveal more than just military service – they reveal stories of lost loves, secret affairs, and for some, uncover who their enslaver may have been and what their life was like while enslaved.Learn how to find out about your own Civil War ancestors and how to obtain copies of their files.

Hands On Workshops

  • Become a family history detective in this exciting workshop! We'll tackle real-life genealogical mysteries together, honing your research skills along the way. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned sleuth, you'll learn strategies to crack your own family history cases and uncover hidden stories.

  • Ready to unlock the secrets of census records? In this hands-on workshop you'll learn to mine these documents for family gold. We'll dive into both federal and state census records, and use them to expand your family tree and uncover fascinating details about your ancestors' lives.

  • Hit a wall in your family research? Bring your records and let's break through together! In this interactive workshop, we'll develop strategies to solve your specific genealogy puzzles. You'll leave with a solid plan to take your research to the next level.

  • "Thanks again for the great program. The evaluations were stellar -- all attendees returned evals, and they were all 5 star!"

    Lead Librarian

  • "Thank you so much for taking time out of your Saturday morning to present for us. The attendees were very pleased with your presentation--the positivity has continued as my email inbox has been flooded with great feedback! 😊"

    History Center Director

  • "These presentations have been excellent! I appreciate all of the resources and information."

    Class Participant

Presentations & Lectures

  • Journey through the Midwest's rich African American history. We'll explore the lives of early black residents who shaped the region from the 1850s to 1880s. Discover the stories of homesteaders, entrepreneurs, and veterans who contributed to the Midwest's development despite numerous challenges.

  • Confront a challenging aspect of American history in your family tree. Learn how to identify enslaver ancestors and those who benefited from slavery. We'll also explore methods to research the individuals enslaved by your ancestors and find their descendants. We will also discuss using genealogy as a tool for healing historical wounds.

  • Explore how white privilege impacts genealogical research. We'll discuss what's often missing in traditional practices and how genealogy can reveal racial and cultural identity. Learn to use your family history as a tool for understanding and addressing historical injustices.

    *This class assumes a basic understanding of racism and white privilege.

  • Uncover the true diversity of your ancestors' communities! Redlining, sundown towns, and restrictive covenants have often erased early diversity from our historical narratives. Together, we'll explore how to reveal the stories of African American farm laborers, barbers, and others who lived alongside your ancestors. Discover why expanding your research beyond your direct lineage is crucial for understanding your family's complete history and context.

Multi-Day Workshops

  • Calling all young history detectives! Spend an exciting week uncovering your family's unique story and creating a personalized family tree. You'll learn how to interview relatives, organize information, and use online resources to expand your tree. By week's end, you'll present your masterpiece to your family, showcasing your newfound genealogy skills!

  • Break through your research roadblocks during this 3-day immersive workshop! Bring your toughest genealogy questions and work alongside fellow enthusiasts to find answers. We'll dive deep into research techniques, empowering you to overcome obstacles on your own. Enjoy collaborative problem-solving, hands-on experience, and connect with other passionate researchers. No lectures - just pure genealogy detective work! *Meals provided

  • Unravel the mysteries in your DNA results during this 3-day "un-retreat"! Together we'll dive deep into your genetic genealogy, empowering you to continue investigating on your own. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere, plenty of snacks, and real connections as we nerd out on DNA and family trees together. No awkward icebreakers - just pure genealogy joy!

Let’s Chat

If you’re a member of a historical society, library, museum, or another educational institution, we can arrange a genealogy workshop to meet your group’s specific needs.