NOBLESVILLE, Ind. (September 26, 2024)  Family historians, genealogists, and enthusiasts will gather for the First Annual Family History Day Genealogy Conference, taking place on Saturday, October 12 from 9:30am-4pm at the Noblesville Library. This event, hosted by Crossroads Discovery Center at the Hamilton East Public Library (HEPL), promises to be an unparalleled opportunity for individuals passionate about uncovering their family’s history to connect, learn, and share their experiences.

The conference will feature a range of educational sessions, engaging presentations, and expert-led discussions on topics such as all levels on censuses, newspapers, DNA, cemeteries, land records and more. Historical, genealogical, and lineage groups will be available to answer questions and provide more information on their work throughout the event. Attendees will have the chance to network with both historians and genealogy enthusiasts, who share their passion for family history.

Keynote Speaker and Featured Guests

The event will be headlined by Juliana Szucs, a celebrated speaker and expert in the field of genealogy research, known for their work with Ancestry.com. Additional featured speakers include:

  • JaKobi Burton, Indiana African American Genealogy Group
  • Nancy Massey, Hamilton County Genealogist
  • Kamia Jackson, Program Committee Chair of Indiana African American Genealogy Group (IAAGG)
  • Lauren Peightel, Manager of Engagement at Indiana Historical Society
  • Amber Oldenburg, One Branch at a Time Genealogy
  • Glory-June Greiff, Historian-At-Large

Sessions

The conference will also include sessions designed for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned genealogists. Topics include:

  • Tuning Into the DNA of Your Ancestors
  • Navigating Federal Census Records
  • Genealogy Next Steps: Digging Deeper
  • Breaking the Silence: Understanding One Man’s Naval Experience in World War II
  • Land For the Landless: Homestead Records and How to Use Them
  • Sermons in Stones: the Symbolism of Grave Markers and Cemetery Art

A Unique Opportunity to Build Your Family History

Attendees will leave the conference equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to continue their family history research with confidence. Whether you’re just beginning to trace your ancestry or are a seasoned genealogist, this event will provide invaluable insights, tips, and strategies for making the most of your research.

“The Crossroads Discovery Center staff are thrilled to offer this free genealogy conference right here at the Noblesville Library,” Crossroads Discovery Center Assistant Manager Ann Grilliot said. “Learn from top notch speakers. Connect with fellow researchers and discover more about local history and genealogy groups. Whatever the stage of your genealogy research, just curious, starting again, or seasoned veteran, wherever your ancestors are from, you’ll find new ways to uncover family history.”

Registration Information

Registration for the Family History Day Genealogy Conference is free and available at hamiltoneastpl.org.

About Hamilton East Public Library

At Hamilton East Public Library, we are dedicated to serving our community. Our aim is to foster a sense of connection and enlightenment. With our welcoming staff by your side, we’re here to assist you in your quest for knowledge and to help you explore a universe of ideas.