Dec 30, 2024

As the calendar turns, genealogists find themselves at a juncture—caught between the passage of time and the unchanging stories of the past. For the advanced family historian, this isn’t merely a moment to reflect on what has been achieved but also an opportunity to refine methods, revisit forgotten trails,...

Dec 25, 2024

As Christmas Day settles around us, we often reflect on why we celebrate Christmas in the first place. For generations, families have turned to the biblical accounts of Christ’s birth as a source of hope and meaning—gathering in simple homes, grand halls, and distant lands, all united by the same eternal message. By...

Dec 24, 2024

The cold of December bit deeper than the mud underfoot, making every breath visible in the icy air. Private William Roberts adjusted his scarf, but it did little to stop the chill from creeping into his bones. The trench, stretching endlessly along the Western Front, was quiet except for the distant rumble...

Dec 22, 2024

The sound of sleigh bells jingling through the crisp winter air evokes images of joyful gatherings, festive decorations, and cherished family traditions. But how can you uncover the specific ways your ancestors celebrated the holidays? Often overlooked in genealogical research, census records hold valuable insights...

Dec 20, 2024

I remember a simple yet enchanting holiday moment—it began with my grandparents standing beside the Christmas tree. Its lights were glowing gently in the early evening, and the house carried that pleasant hush that settles in once the day’s bustle has quieted down. They leaned toward me and said, “Squint your...