Genealogy Series - Have a blank spot in your family tree?

Genealogy Series - Have a blank spot in your family tree?

This series is put on by the following staff from the Carver County Historical Society:

Executive Director - Wendy Petersen Biorn

Educator - Jayna Hulleman

Research and Genealogist - Brenda Reister

Interested in learning more about your family’s past? This three-part genealogy series is designed to guide participants through the fundamentals of family history research while providing practical tools and hands-on learning opportunities. Whether you are brand new to genealogy or looking to strengthen your research skills, this series will help you organize information, locate reliable sources, and begin building your family tree with confidence.

Genealogy 101: Getting Started – The Basics 

Located at the Watertown Mayer Community Learning Center

This introductory course covers the essential foundations of genealogy research. Participants will learn how to properly collect and organize family information, understand the importance of accurate record keeping, and avoid common documentation mistakes. The class will review examples of both effective and poor record keeping to demonstrate best practices. Participants will also be introduced to several computer programs and digital tools designed to help document and organize family history data.

Genealogy 102: Research Resources and Evaluating Sources 

Located at the Watertown Mayer Community Learning Center

Take your research to the next level by exploring the wide variety of genealogy resources available both online and through the Carver County Historical Society (CCHS). This class will introduce participants to reliable databases, archives, and historical records that can help expand family research. Participants will also learn how to evaluate sources for accuracy and credibility, helping them distinguish between trustworthy information and misleading or incorrect records.

Genealogy 103: Ready, Set, Go – Guided Research Session

Located at the Carver County Historical Society - 555 W 1st Street, Waconia, 55387

Put your skills into practice during this hands-on research session. Participants will have dedicated time to work on their own family history projects with guidance and support from CCHS staff. This session may be held at the Carver County Historical Society, allowing participants direct access to local historical resources and expert assistance while continuing their research journey.