Greetings Fellow Family History Sleuths,

If you take a scan of this month's issue, you'll quickly notice that I've gone off the deep end with a fun little project. I think we can all agree that masks are a bit of a hassle, but since we have to wear them, why not have fun with them? So I've started a genealogy mask series. Whether you're into DNA, cemeteries, or Grandma's recipes, there's one that's right for you! Why not surprise one of your genie pals with one that's perfect for them?

Aside from that that, you'll find news about a new image-search feature with the Chronicling America newspaper collection, a touching story about a forgotten hero who almost saved President McKinley, genetic genealogy explained using gummy bears (yes, really), a couple who recreated their wedding photo on their 60th anniversary, and other genealogical bits and bobs!

Until next month, stay safe!

A Cool Orphan Heirloom Rescue

Those of you who have followed me for a while know how much I love doing what I call orphan heirloom rescues. I recently had the chance to be part of one that was absolutely charming. A friend of a friend found a paper in an old book – a Western Union telegram announcing a 1928 birth! – and decided he wanted to return it to the family of origin. The research was a little tricky, but I managed to track down the family, and lo' and behold, the baby whose arrival was being shared is very much with us today! The next thing I knew, her granddaughter shared the discovery on Twitter where those of us who were involved (and many others who just thought it was cool) had a bit of a virtual celebration. All in all, a lovely experience.

I know not all of you are on Twitter, so I've provided a portion here to give you a taste. Those of you who have Twitter accounts might enjoy perusing the thread for a few minutes. Strangers being nice to other strangers online!

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Genealogy Roundup, September 16

Library of Congress Launches New Tool to Search Historical Newspaper Images – Image search for Chronicling America!! 👀

Lessons from a viral obituary – What makes a good obit?

Genealogy mask of the day #26: Miracle Worker

Genealogy mask of the day #27: Bootleggers

Genealogy mask of the day #28: Who Tells Your Story?

Genealogy mask of the day #29: Indian Heritage Toile

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Genealogy Roundup, September 9

Nebraska couple dons original wedding dress, suit in sweet photo after 60 years of marriage

On Witness and Respair: A Personal Tragedy Followed by Pandemic – I once had the privilege of being on a book festival panel with Jesmyn Ward and a handful of other authors. It was so early in her career that she didn't realize that *she* was the gifted one. Read this and you'll understand.

Reclaiming a hero who tried to save President McKinley – Please read (and consider sharing) this thoughtful piece on Jim Parker, a Black man whose heroism was erased - and the efforts to restore him to memory. Thanks to Sean Kirst for inviting me to do some sleuthing on this. 🙏

Explaining genetics: 😆

Image Credit: @jayvanbavel (Twitter)

Genealogy mask of the day #17: Future Tribe Kente

Genealogy mask of the day #18: Disturb The Dead

Genealogy mask of the day #19: Great Grandmother's Recipes

Genealogy mask of the day #20: Emme Richny Creations

Genealogy mask of the day #21: DNA Tree

Genealogy mask of the day #22: Irish Linen

Genealogy mask of the day #23: Angel in the Morning

Genealogy mask of the day #24: Heritage of Isfahan Iranian carpet print

Genealogy mask of the day #25: Tartan

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Genealogy Roundup, August 26

Photo Credit: Mark Bonica under Creative Commons license

Airman Accounted For From World War II (McMackin, C.) – Welcome home, SSG Charles Garvey McMackin. Honored to have researched your family.

Why Pharrell Almost Didn’t Exist – To mark the recent anniversary of the 1831 Nat Turner Rebellion, I'm sharing this piece about the roots of Pharrell Williams. You'll find a tangential connection in his family tree - as well as a more direct link to Liberia.

Words We're Watching: 'Nibling' – Hey, genealogists! Let's make this a thing. Merriam-Webster says, "The more you use it, the sooner it'll get in" their dictionary.

Danny DeVito discusses his Irish connections – Fun genealogy tidbit - Italy in Ireland!

Genealogy mask of the day #12: Dia De Los Muertos Skull Mask

Genealogy mask of the day #13: DNA Chakra Circle of Life

Genealogy mask of the day #14: Pink Kokeshi Dolls

Genealogy mask of the day #15: Quarantined But Willing To Discuss Genealogy

Genealogy mask of the day #16: Irina and Friends

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Genealogy Roundup, August 19

Photo Credit: Gavin Sheridan/CC BY-SA 4.0

Why the Choctaw People Sent Their Meager Funds to Ireland – For those who might be unfamiliar with this tale of mutual support

England’s Immigrants – Cool resource for those deep English roots

Think you've got a tough job? Nah:

Genealogy mask of the day #7: Sexy Genealogist

Genealogy mask of the day #8: Swedish Roots

Genealogy mask of the day #9: 3% Neanderthal

Genealogy mask of the day #10: Old World Charm

Genealogy mask of the day #11: Mayflower Descendant

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Upcoming Events

After traveling around and speaking in 40 states and half a dozen countries, I decided to take a breather from the road to tend to some projects. That said, I'm sharing exceptions here. And by the way, you can see if I’ll be in your area any time by checking my Events Calendar.

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