The genealogy group had its latest meeting on 12 July. 6 intrepid researchers gathered at Richard Evans house and were made very welcome,
Paul Moir gave a thorough and well researched presentation comparing the various software tools available for both ancestor research and family tree building. It seems each has a different selection of features and range of coverage, so there is no one tool which is ideal for everyone.. The prices also vary widely, so it is worth checking which are most likely to suit your individual needs. Across our group there is a pretty wide range of experience so we were able to provide practical tips and examples of the sites and their usage. (If you are thinking of getting into family research you may find it helpful to have a chat with one of us, and remember to use whatever free trials are available before committing to any one site).
At all the groups meetings discussions on examples of problems encountered and interesting case histories take up much of the time, and this brings life to our researches. Things like the ‘grandfather’ who turns out to be the father, the old practice of registering a birth, but if the child dies young recycling both name and birth certificate with the next child, and people with multiple parents (we have case with people with 3 fathers!) turn out to be quite frequent.
The next meeting is at my house on 20th September, at which I hope to introduce the group to a few of my more colourful ancestors. If you would like to come along you will be very welcome, just give me a ring or collar me at a Probus do for a chat. Len Morel.