All-day DNA / Family History Workshop

I always feel I have to leave out too much information when I speak only for an hour or so on genetic genealogy and DNA. An all-day workshop allows so much more to be covered—enough to intrigue those new to DNA testing for genealogy and add some more advanced bits to help those already somewhat familiar with DNA testing to learn more. There is even enough time to include some real examples on how to begin analyzing your DNA data yourself so it contributes to your genealogical research goals and doesn't just gather dust in a file cabinet.

The Hot Springs Village Genealogical Society and Akansa Chapter NSDAR have invited me back this year to present an all-day DNA workshop for genealogists. See their flyer for registration information or contact Jeanette Frahm at 501.922.9220 (Nette4465@gmail.com).

I taught traditional research topics at Hot Springs Village last year. It is a beautiful area of Arkansas with lots of trees and hills. It is a wonderful, friendly group of dedicated genealogists. Last year we had attendees from as far away as Little Rock. Hot Springs Village has a great conference center well-designed for presentations. Driving instructions can be found here and there are photos from prior workshops.

The schedule for Saturday, 28 September, is:

8:30 a.m. - Registration

Morning sessions
“GATA GACC! DNA and Genetic Genealogy Today”
This lecture covers where we are today using DNA for genealogy, maximizing Y-DNA, mitochondrial DNA, and autosomal DNA test results to contribute to genealogical research goals.

“Going Nuclear: DNA Discoveries to Trace All Lines of Descent”
This lecture covers the advances made in DNA testing for genealogical research and shows how to use these new test results to advance your personal research. Learn to link families using autosomal DNA test results from any testing company. Includes how to use test results such as those from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and Family Tree DNA Family Finder tests.

Afternoon sessions
“Paternal Lines: Y-DNA”
This lecture covers the basics of Y-DNA testing for males, and how to find DNA projects and testing companies. Learn details of Y-DNA testing including how to analyze test results. Findings can corroborate your paper trail or place you on the right research path.

“Maternal Lines: Using Mitochondrial DNA and X-DNA”
This lecture covers the basics of mitochondrial DNA testing. Understand mitochondrial DNA testing with an introduction to analysis of test results. Sample research problems demonstrate how mtDNA can be used by genealogists.

Be sure to order the box lunch or bring your own lunch. The conference center doesn't have any restaurants nearby. You should register by 15 September to ensure lunch availability.

I hope to see you there.

© 2013, Debbie Parker Wayne, CG, CGL, All Rights Reserved