Family History and Genealogy Conference 2006

This week I was able to attend the Family History & Genealogy Conference. Many years ago, I used to work and teach in the BYU Family History Lab. But, as I learned at this conference, many things have changed. It was a great opportunity to catch-up on the state of Genealogy work.

The Internet, the Internet, and the Internet

The Internet has become a pivotal tool in Genealogy work. Resources include digitized records, indexes of records, family websites, blogs, and newsletters. Here are a few of the blogs that were interesting to me:

• Eastman's Online Genealogy Newsletter


• Taking Genealogy to the Common Person - Dan Lawyer

The following site puts together a world time-line for one of your ancestors:

• OurTimeLines.com

Because of the large number of resources there are also a number of websites that index the many genealogy websites. A few of note are:

• Cyndi's List of Genealogy Sites on the Internet


• Linkpendium - The Definitive Director

Modern technology has greatly enhanced our ability to do genealogy work.

Research Guidance

I have used the FamilySearch website on a number of occasions, but I never noticed the Research Guidance. Information is presented by locality on how to find records. Using the information on this site I ordered a marriage certificate for my great-great-great grandfather.

Genealogy Software

I was able to meet with some of the engineers and other employees working with the following genealogy software programs:

• Ancestral Quest (and PAFWiz)


• Legacy Family Tree


• PAF Insight


• RootsMagic

It was interesting to see the software packages start to take advantage of the Internet resources.

The "New" FamilySearch

There was a lot of talk about the "New" FamilySearch. The major goals of the project are to eliminate duplication, simplify the temple process, and increase participation. It is hoped that the roll-out will start the end of this year.

The New Church History Building

The construction North of the Church Office Building is for a Church History Building, not a Family History Building &mdash a common misconception. The construction should be completed late 2006.