John Philip Colletta, a renowned genealogist, gives us insight on sources and the benefits of attending SLIG!
What record set to you believe is the most under-utilized? What advice would you give students in using this record set?
Court records in general are under-utilized because accessing and searching them takes time and effort. But they contain a wealth of information about our ancestors. I encourage family historians to explore the records created by our federal courts, 1789-1911, which are in the 13 regional archives of our National Archives and Records Administration (RG21). The court’s docket book may serve as an index. Newspapers, too, report the docket when the court is in session. Federal Cases, a thirty-volume set in any law library also helps to identify federal court suits involving specific ancestors.
What books and periodicals would you recommend for intermediate to advanced researchers? Are there any lesser-known texts you advise?
I subscribe to the major scholarly genealogical periodicals, such as the National Genealogical Society Quarterly, The New York Genealogical and Biographical Record, The American Genealogist, and so forth. Their articles are the best in the field and offer a tremendous variety of lessons—and enjoyable reading—for all family historians.
What is the most rewarding thing about being a genealogical educator? What advice would you give for those who would follow in your footsteps?
Helping people learn more about their own heritage, ancestor by ancestor, is very gratifying, because I know how much it means to them personally. More than that, though, meeting people, one on one, across the country, who are engaged in family research is great fun. It broadens in a most delightful way the horizons of my own experience and knowledge. Genealogists are the best!
Why would you recommend a student attend SLIG?
SLIG provides a tremendous amount of practical instruction in an ideal setting a few blocks from the LDS Family History Library… and at a very reasonable cost, too! The physical environment is comfortable and the faculty, staff and attendees all share their knowledge, experience and personalities in a genial atmosphere. A week at SLIG adds up to a lot more than a week at SLIG. It is more than an educational institute. It is a coming together of fellow ancestor hunters from across the country, a festival of sharing and camaraderie.
Take advantage of the early-bird registration pricing available until October 31, 2014! Don't miss this opportunity to benefit from John's expertise. For more on John's course, see http://www.ugagenealogy.org/cpage.php?pt=331. To register, go to http://www.infouga.org/aem.php?lv=p&epg=68.
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