Midwestern Roots Genealogy Conference, July 15-16, 2016

By Rachel Hill Ponko
Indiana Historical Society

Early registration starts next week for a premier genealogy event that only comes around every two years.

Starting Monday, April 4, 2016, anyone who wants to learn more about their family history and genealogy can sign up for the Indiana Historical Society’s (IHS) Midwestern Roots 2016: Family History and Genealogy Conference.

Midwestern Roots 2016 will take place July 15-16, 2016 at the Indianapolis Marriott East, 7202 East 21st Street, Indianapolis, Indiana.

This year’s event will feature more than 30 sessions by nationally known speakers such as Cece Moore, The Genetic Genealogist, from Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates Jr. and Genealogy Roadshow.

Conference sessions are open to everyone, from the beginning enthusiast to the seasoned professional. Most will cover topics such as using ever-changing and emerging technology and sources online. Other sessions will cover DNA, methodology, using traditional sources and legal genealogy.

Registration cost is $169 ($145 for IHS members, $75 for students) for the basic two-day workshop (including lunches) and $110 ($95 for IHS members, $45 for students) for single day registration (including lunch) for those who sign up between April 4 and June 30.

The Friday evening banquet and presentation is $50 (no conference registration required). In addition, a number of pre-conference activities will be offered Thursday, July 14, for a fee. Activities include a workshop for people who work or volunteer in genealogy collections, hands-on computer labs, writing sessions and an evening program.

Early registration will be available online at www.indianahistory.org by clicking on the “Our Services” tab, then “Family History.” Participants can stay up-to-date on the latest news by following @indianahistory on Twitter, as well as ‪#‎yourstory‬.

Take Part in IHS’s Other Genealogy Programs

Genealogists who are ready to get started can join IHS for a free afternoon program on Saturday, May 21. From 1 to 3 p.m., Growing Little Leaves: Fashionable Genealogy will focus on the history of fashion and how it can help unlock the secrets of family trees. The family-friendly program will take place at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center, located at 450 W. Ohio St. in downtown Indianapolis.

Growing Little Leaves: Fashionable Genealogy is free, but registration is encouraged. Participants can sign up for the program, or Midwestern Roots 2016, by calling (317) 232-1882 or by visiting IHS online atwww.indianahistory.org.