Author: Brandy Heineman
-
-
What’s in a Name
Sometimes I think about how ordinary, common things tell secrets about big, invisible things. For example: I have three different unrelated “Smith” lines in my family tree. And if I’m honest, I butt heads with my Smiths a little (a.k.a., a lot) because though I pay lip service to the idea of loving a good challenge,…
-
Lost and Found in Coudersport PA
A repost from my old blog. Originally published on 8/26/09 as “How I Got Lost In Pennsylvania and Found My Grandparents,” presented in a slightly edited format now … Enjoy! A while back, I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to visit the Potter County Historical Society in Coudersport, Pennsylvania. It was one of…
-
Exploring the 1855 New York State Census
FamilySearch.org added the New York State 1855 Census on February 1st. When I saw the wealth of information inside, I went on a marathon dig for every ancestor living in the area at the time. Yes, it’s really that good. Even if you don’t think you have any New York roots, I recommend checking this database for…
-
Does human creativity reflect our Creator?
In Christ’s example, we find the position and the quality of mastery inherent to creating. But what does that mean for us?
-
Finding Fanny Short (Or, The Case Against Fanny Stiles)
An elderly parent who lives with an ancestor’s family is genealogical gold. Even better if it’s the woman’s side of the family and you’re able to score her maiden name! New lines! New mysteries! That is, if you’re sure that elderly person is indeed a parent. Meet Mrs. Fanny Cornell. Socrates and Fanny Cornell lived…
-
5 Reasons I’m Letting My Ancestry Subscription Run Out
What makes a happy customer give up her Ancestry.com subscription? The answer might surprise you…
-
4 Reasons To Lend Books (and the ONE reason not to!)
People differ on this point, so let me state my position upfront: I’m happy to lend out my books. I don’t keep a list, other than a sketchy, forgetful one in my head. Going by the publisher’s list prices, I have at least $96.89 worth of books loaned out right now. (I feel like I’m…
-
Courting in Clippings
Today, we make it “Facebook-official,” but in 1921-1922, our great-grandparents had other ways of declaring themselves to the world . . .
-
A Genealogist’s Guide to Storytelling: Two Types of Editing
In this series, we’re talking about how to craft your genealogical research into engaging stories to share with family. The first post covers the facts, clues, and in-between bits that form the backbone of your story, and you can find it here. The second post discusses the character, conflict, and cost of your story, which you’ll…