Come spend this summer with your ancestors.
David M. Randall
While summer often means vacations and travel, the Robson Ranch Genealogy Club remains active with an exciting lineup of programs and research opportunities for members who are staying close to home.
On Tuesday, July 21, Programming Director Emily Richardson will present “Using Newspapers to Enhance the Lives of Your Ancestors.” Historical newspapers are among the most valuable—and often overlooked—resources available to family historians. Emily will demonstrate how newspapers can lead researchers to additional genealogical records while also providing fascinating details that bring ancestors to life by revealing the communities they lived in, the events they experienced, and the stories that never made it into official records. Best of all, many of these resources are available at little or no cost.
The club will take a brief summer break on Tuesday, August 4, and no meeting will be held that evening.
Instead, members are invited to join the club on Monday, August 10, for a special summer excursion to the Denton County Courthouse, where the Flower Mound Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution will be hosting The American Revolution Experience. This free traveling exhibit features interactive displays, rare reproductions, and compelling stories that bring the Revolutionary War era to life. Members are welcome to meet the group at the courthouse or contact club leadership to arrange a carpool.
Our regular meeting schedule resumes on Tuesday, August 18, when Diane Richards presents “Unlocking the Freedmen’s Records.” Created during the years immediately following the Civil War, the records of the Freedmen’s Bureau and related collections contain a wealth of information for those researching African American families and Southern ancestors. Diane will explain how these often misunderstood and underutilized records can provide family connections, vital records, labor contracts, military information, and countless other genealogical treasures.
Don’t forget that our team of experienced genealogists remains available throughout the summer to provide one-on-one research assistance. Whether you’re just getting started or have hit a stubborn brick wall, this is a great time to receive personalized help with your family history. Contact Club President, Mickey Grames, to schedule an appointment.
The Robson Ranch Genealogy Club welcomes members of all experience levels—from complete beginners to seasoned researchers. Regular meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Creative Arts and Technology Center, Room 104. Annual dues are $15 per household, and prospective members are always welcome to attend a meeting before joining. Come discover your family’s story with us!