 Ancestry’s New DNA Matches by Cluster Feature in Beta Ancestry has just introduced a new feature for their AncestryDNA Pro Tools subscription called Matches by Cluster — a tool currently in Beta testing. This new option automatically organizes some of your DNA matches into groups that most likely share a common ancestor. If you’ve ever explored DNA clustering methodologies such as the Leeds Method or used third-party tools for cluster analysis, you’ll recognize the concept: grouping matches based on how they share DNA not just with you, but also with each other. Here’s an overview of how this new Ancestry feature works, what it currently offers, and my initial impressions after exploring it. How It Works Matches by Cluster analyzes your DNA matches and organizes them into clusters. The goal is to help you visualize and understand groups of people who may descend from the same ancestor or ancestral couple. Currently, the feature works within a specific range:
What I Noticed When I tested this feature on my own DNA results, Ancestry created seven small clusters for me — a mix of maternal and paternal side groups. The groups were relatively modest in size:
Currently, the clusters seem to center on matches connected to second great-grandparent couples, which may help those who are still establishing the broader framework of their DNA connections.  Ancestry DNA Match by Cluster Example- Groups Additional Insights
Who Might Benefit from This? This new clustering tool seems especially well-suited for:
Looking Ahead Because Matches by Cluster is still a Beta feature, it will be interesting to watch how it evolves. The ability to create custom clusters based on cM ranges or targeted matches will make this tool far more flexible and potentially more powerful down the road. If Ancestry expands this feature to include all matches across a broader cM range, it could become even more useful for identifying connections beyond the 2nd great-grandparent level and help visualize deeper ancestral ties that may not yet be obvious. Final Thoughts As with all tools, the value of Matches by Cluster depends on where you are in your research journey. For those newer to DNA or just beginning to get comfortable with organizing matches, this tool could offer helpful direction. For more advanced genealogists, it may serve as a supplemental tool while we wait to see how Ancestry expands its capabilities in future updates. I’ll be keeping an eye on this feature as it develops and will share further insights as new options are rolled out. Have you tried Matches by Cluster yet? I’d love to hear about your experiences and thoughts on its potential for your research! More Ancestry and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more Ancestry updates, tips, tools, and features and other family history and genealogy resources under the Ancestry.com and the Genealogy Resources categories of my blog and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
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 Top 5 Genealogy Tips for Beginners – A simple checklist to help you start your family history journey today Starting your genealogy journey can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many resources and techniques available, it’s essential to know where to begin. Here are my top five genealogy tips for beginners, complete with examples and detailed guidance to help you start your family history adventure. 1. Start with What You Know One of the most fundamental rules in genealogy is to start with what you know. Begin by gathering information from your own family, including parents, grandparents, and other close relatives. Record their full names, birth and death dates, places of residence, and any stories they may have shared about your ancestors. Example: Imagine you’re trying to trace your great-grandfather’s origins. Begin by asking your family members what they know about him. Perhaps your grandmother remembers that he was born in a small town in Ohio and worked as a blacksmith. This information provides a starting point for your research, helping you to focus on specific locations and time periods. Tip in Action: Create a simple family tree chart starting with yourself and working backward. Write down every piece of information you gather, even if it seems insignificant. A small detail, like a family nickname or a vague memory of a place, can become a crucial clue later in your research. 2. Use Census Records as a Foundation Census records are a treasure trove of information for genealogists, especially beginners. They provide snapshots of a family at specific points in time, listing names, ages, occupations, and sometimes even relationships within the household. These records are invaluable for constructing timelines and identifying potential new avenues of research. Example: Let’s say you’re researching your great-grandmother, who was born around 1900. By locating her in the 1900, 1910, 1920, and 1930 U.S. Census records, you can track her family’s movements, discover her parents' names, and even identify siblings you may not have known about. Additionally, censuses often reveal occupations, which can lead you to other types of records like employment files or local directories. Tip in Action: When you find your ancestors in a census record, jot down every detail, including neighbors and other household members. Sometimes extended family members lived nearby or even with your ancestors, offering additional clues. For example, a previously unknown aunt living in the same household might lead you to another branch of your family tree. You can learn more about what you can find in census records starting with my blog The 1850 U.S. Census: One of the Golden Genealogy Records and continuing from there. 3. Document Your Sources Properly documenting your sources is a habit that will pay off in the long run. Every time you find a new piece of information, whether it’s from a census record, a family bible, or a birth certificate, make sure to record where you found it. This practice ensures the credibility of your research and allows others to follow your research trail. Example: Suppose you discover your great-grandfather’s birth date in an old church record. It’s tempting to write down the date and move on, but take the time to note the specific name of the church, the location, and even the book and page number if available. This way, if anyone questions the accuracy of your information, you can point them directly to the original source. Tip in Action: Use a research log or software like a genealogy database to keep track of your sources. Even a simple spreadsheet can work wonders for organizing your citations. This habit will prevent headaches later when you need to revisit a particular source or share your findings with others. Trust me; I'm still paying for this from my beginning research days. 4. Verify Information Before Accepting It as Fact Genealogy is full of surprises, but not all of them are accurate. It’s crucial to verify every piece of information you find before accepting it as fact. This step is particularly important when working with online trees or records that may have been transcribed incorrectly. Example: You might find an online family tree that shows your great-great-grandfather’s birthplace as New York. Before you add this information to your own tree, seek out additional sources that confirm this detail, such as birth certificates, census records, or land deeds. In some cases, you might find conflicting information, requiring you to dig deeper to uncover the truth. Tip in Action: Compare multiple sources before drawing conclusions. If three different records list the same birth date and place, it’s likely accurate. But if two records show conflicting information, you may need to investigate further to determine which is correct. Always be skeptical of information that doesn’t have a source attached or that comes from secondary sources like online trees. 5. Explore Local Archives and Libraries While online research is convenient, don’t overlook the value of local archives, libraries, and genealogical societies. These repositories often hold unique records that aren’t available online, such as local newspapers, land deeds, church records, and more. Visiting these places can unearth information that provides a richer, more detailed picture of your ancestors’ lives. Example: If you’re researching ancestors who lived in a rural town, consider visiting the local library or county courthouse. You might find property records showing where your ancestors lived, old newspapers with obituaries, or even court records involving your ancestors. These local resources can provide context and fill in gaps that online databases may not cover. Tip in Action: Call ahead or check the website of the local archive or library to understand what records they hold and any special requirements for accessing them. Some archives may require appointments, while others might have helpful staff who can guide you to relevant records. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance—they often have resources and knowledge that can significantly aid your research. You can learn more about what records and free resources you can obtain from local repositories in my blog post Genealogy Resources: Genealogical Societies, Historical Societies, and Libraries for Genealogical Research. ConclusionBy following these five tips, you’ll establish a strong foundation for your genealogy research. Remember, patience and persistence are key. Every record, story, and detail you uncover brings you closer to understanding your family’s unique history. Happy researching! More Top GenealogyMore Genealogy Tips6/29/2025 LiveMemory™ Now Available on the MyHeritage Website: Bring Your Photos to Life—Right From Your DesktopRead Now A cherished holiday memory brought to life: MyHeritage’s LiveMemory™ feature now available on the web If you’ve ever wished you could step inside a treasured family photograph, MyHeritage is making that dream even more accessible. After a successful launch on the MyHeritage mobile app last November, LiveMemory™—a tool that transforms still photos into short, lifelike video clips—is now available directly on the MyHeritage website. As part of the MyHeritage Friends program, I had the opportunity to preview the new web-based version of LiveMemory™ ahead of its release. I’m excited to now share that this powerful feature is officially available for everyone to use--no mobile app required! What Is LiveMemory™?LiveMemory™ uses advanced AI to animate entire scenes from old photographs. Unlike earlier tools that focused on facial animation alone, LiveMemory™ takes it to the next level by bringing movement and subtle action to the whole scene. A photo of your grandmother at her sewing machine, a child at the beach, or a birthday celebration frozen in time—LiveMemory™ reimagines those moments in motion. Since its launch, over half a million animations have been created by users all over the world. It’s been moving, emotional, and inspiring to see family memories animated with such heart. What’s New with the Web Version?The newly released desktop version of LiveMemory™ includes several exciting additions:
How to Use LiveMemory™ on the WebGetting started is simple:
A Few of My Own LiveMemory™ TrialsAs part of the MyHeritage Friends group, I had early access to LiveMemory™ and tested it out on a variety of photos—some with more natural results than others. I found that clear, close-up portraits tended to work best with the AI animations, especially when the subjects were facing the camera. Here are a few examples from my own family photo collection that I tried using the new web-based version of LiveMemory™: Grandma with Her Two Young Sons (Circa 1944) This sweet black-and-white photo features my grandmother holding my father and uncle on her lap. The LiveMemory™ animation gently brought out movement in my grandmother’s expression and added a lifelike quality to the scene—like stepping into a quiet afternoon in the 1940s. A Visit with Santa (Circa 1955–1957) This charming snapshot shows my mother as a child sitting on Santa Claus’s lap at a department store during the holidays. The LiveMemory™ animation gave the scene a subtle sparkle of holiday magic—adding a little laughter and movement as if he were asking her want she wanted for Christmas. Christmas Morning (Circa 1962) Here’s one from my mother’s teenage years—she’s about 14 in this photo, sitting in front of the family’s Christmas tree with her three younger brothers. This busy holiday snapshot translated surprisingly well with LiveMemory™, adding a flicker of excitement and animation to what was clearly a joyful, gift-filled morning. Three Generations in One Frame (Circa early 1950s) This family group photo includes my father as a boy of about 10, along with his older sister, her husband and their baby, my grandfather, and one of my dad’s older brothers. The LiveMemory™ animation added subtle gestures that made it feel like a candid moment from a family gathering rather than just a posed portrait. Why Try LiveMemory™?LiveMemory™ isn’t just a novelty—it’s an emotional, sometimes breathtaking experience. For genealogists, family historians, and anyone curious about the past, it offers a new way to connect with ancestors and loved ones on a deeper level. Whether you’re creating clips to share at a family reunion or using them to inspire the next generation’s interest in family history, this tool adds something fresh and powerful to your storytelling toolbox. Final ThoughtsThe new web release of LiveMemory™ makes this feature more accessible than ever before. Whether you’re revisiting photos you’ve animated before or trying something new with one of the creative effects, it’s the perfect time to explore how technology can deepen our connection to the past. Give it a try on the MyHeritage website, and don’t forget to share your results using #MyHeritage and #LiveMemory. I’d love to hear what moments you’ve brought to life! More MyHeritage, AI, and Other Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more MyHeritage, AI in Genealogy, and other family history and genealogy resources under the MyHeritage, AI in Genealogy, Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
 A visual summary of the top five reasons to explore your genealogy—Discovery, Preservation, Breakthroughs, Connection, and Understanding. Top 5 Reasons for GenealogyGenealogy, the study of family history and lineage, is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to connect with the past, understand the present, and preserve the future. Whether you're just starting your journey or you're an experienced researcher, there are numerous reasons why genealogy is both rewarding and valuable. Below are the top five reasons to delve into your family history, complete with detailed explanations and examples to inspire your research. 1. Discover Your Roots and Identity Understanding where you come from is fundamental to knowing who you are. Genealogy offers a deep dive into your ancestry, revealing the stories, struggles, and triumphs of those who came before you. This exploration can provide a sense of identity and belonging that connects you to your cultural and familial heritage. Example: Imagine discovering that your great-grandparents were immigrants who crossed the ocean with nothing but hope for a better future. Uncovering details about their journey, the challenges they faced, and how they adapted to a new country can give you a profound sense of pride and appreciation for their resilience. This knowledge can also enhance your understanding of cultural traditions, language, and values that have been passed down through generations. 2. Preserve Family History for Future Generations One of the most important reasons for genealogy is the preservation of family history. By documenting your research, you create a tangible legacy for future generations. This preservation ensures that the stories, experiences, and lessons of your ancestors are not lost over time. Example: Consider the impact of creating a detailed family tree, complete with photos, documents, and personal stories, that you can pass down to your children and grandchildren. This not only helps them understand their lineage but also instills a sense of pride and continuity. It's a way to keep the memories of loved ones alive, even as time moves forward. 3. Solve Family Mysteries and Break Down Brick Walls Genealogy can often resemble detective work, especially when it comes to solving long-standing family mysteries or breaking through brick walls in your research. Whether it's uncovering the true identity of a mysterious ancestor, finding out what happened to a long-lost relative, or clarifying family legends, genealogy provides the tools and methods to piece together the puzzle. Example: Imagine your family has always spoken of a distant relative who “disappeared” during the Great Depression. Through diligent research, including census records, newspaper archives, and perhaps DNA testing, you could uncover the truth—maybe this relative moved to another state, changed their name, or started a new life elsewhere. Solving such mysteries not only satisfies curiosity but also fills in important gaps in your family’s narrative. 4. Connect with Living Relatives and Build New Relationships Genealogy isn’t just about the past; it’s also about the present. Researching your family history can lead to connections with living relatives you never knew existed. These connections can be both rewarding and enriching, as they allow you to expand your family network and share research, stories, and memories. Example: Through your research, you might discover a distant cousin living in another country. Perhaps they’ve been researching the same family lines and have information or documents you haven’t yet uncovered. Reaching out to them can lead to a collaborative effort in building your family tree, and you may even develop a meaningful relationship that bridges geographical and cultural divides. 5. Gain a Better Understanding of History and Its Impact on Your Family Studying genealogy provides a personal lens through which to view history. By researching your ancestors, you can gain insights into how historical events—wars, migrations, economic depressions, and more—impacted your family. This personal connection to history can make it more relatable and meaningful. Example: If you discover that your ancestors were involved in the Civil War, you might delve into military records to understand their experiences. Learning about the battles they fought in, the conditions they endured, and the impact of the war on their lives can make history come alive in a way that goes beyond textbooks. This understanding can also provide context for the decisions and actions of your ancestors, helping you see history not just as a series of events, but as a collection of personal stories. Conclusion Genealogy is a journey of discovery, connection, and preservation. Whether you’re motivated by a desire to uncover your roots, solve family mysteries, or simply document your heritage for future generations, the rewards of genealogy are vast and deeply fulfilling. Each family has a unique story waiting to be told, and by engaging in genealogical research, you become the storyteller, ensuring that the legacy of your ancestors lives on. More Top GenealogyMore Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
 Bringing ancestor stories to life with AI tools and family history visuals What if your ancestors could speak to you? Not just through letters, photos, or census records—but in their own voice, telling their story in 30 seconds or less? That’s exactly what I set out to explore in a recent AI experiment: combining real ancestor research with cutting-edge (and free!) AI tools to create short, emotionally engaging ancestor videos. These clips aim to preserve and share family stories in a way that’s fast, fun, and surprisingly powerful. Whether you're looking for a new way to engage your relatives—or just want to bring your family history research to life—this technique might be just the creative spark you need. What Is the "Ancestor Voice Clip" Project?This project is part of an ongoing experiment I’m conducting to explore new, low-effort but high-impact ways of sharing family history through AI. The concept is simple: take a moment from your ancestor’s life, craft a short script in their voice, and then bring it to life with AI narration, images, and video editing tools. The result? A 30-second digital storytelling experience that can grab attention, stir emotion, and even get younger generations asking questions about their roots. Two Examples I Created▶️ Example 1: A Near-Death Experience Story: In this clip, Samuel recounts a frightening accident that nearly cost him his life. AI Tools Used:
▶️ Example 2: Returning to Butchering Story: After nearly 15 years of farming in Missouri, Samuel decided to sell his farm in 1892 and return to his original trade—meat cutting. AI Tools Used:
Why This Works
How You Can Create One Too: Step-by-StepWant to give it a try? Here’s a general workflow that you can follow: 1. Upload or Prepare Your Ancestor Profile Start with a short narrative or bullet points about your ancestor—perhaps from an existing ancestor biography or a family history summary, or just upload a PDF of your Ancestry or MyHeritage ancestor profile page. 2. Generate a 30-Second Script Use ChatGPT (or another writing assistant) to help craft a short monologue in your ancestor’s voice. Think first person—like they’re telling you a story themselves. Example Prompt: “Write a 30-second script in the voice of Samuel Steinman, who sold his Missouri farm in 1892 to return to butchering.” 3. Create a Voice Clip Use a tool like ElevenLabs (free accounts available) to generate audio from your script. You can choose from many realistic voice styles or customize your own. 4. Upload an Ancestor Image Optional, but impactful: upload a portrait or symbolic image of your ancestor to visually represent them. This helps personalize the voice clip. 5. Create Symbolic AI Images (Optional) Ask ChatGPT or another AI image platform to generate visual backdrops or symbolic scenes that reflect your ancestor’s story—like a dusty butcher shop or a Missouri farmhouse at dawn. 6. Put It All Together in Canva (or similar) Upload your audio, images, and text into a free platform like Canva to assemble the final video. Canva makes it easy to animate text, add transitions, and export the clip for social sharing. Expanding the Experiment: Two More Tests Using MyHeritageAfter the initial voice-to-story clips using ChatGPT, ElevenLabs, and Canva, I expanded the experiment by testing two more creative approaches—this time using MyHeritage’s AI features. Each of the new clips used the same short scripts and the same AI-generated ancestor photos, but each followed a slightly different path. ▶️ Test #2: Using MyHeritage DeepStory In this version, I uploaded my ancestor photos and the script into MyHeritage's DeepStory tool. DeepStory animates a still photo and adds a lifelike voice narration using its built-in AI features—no ElevenLabs needed. The result? My ancestor appears to speak directly to you, narrating his life story in his own words. It's seamless, intuitive, and very emotionally effective.
▶️ Test #3: MyHeritage LiveMemory + ElevenLabs + Canva This version used a more layered approach:
This test gave me more creative control over the voice, visual pacing, and transitions. It combined the realism of ElevenLabs with the animation capabilities of LiveMemory, all wrapped in Canva’s design tools. Why These Extra Tests MatterThese variations show that there’s no single “right way” to do this kind of storytelling. Each tool—whether ChatGPT, ElevenLabs, MyHeritage DeepStory, LiveMemory, Grok, or Canva—brings something unique to the table. You can mix and match them depending on your comfort level, creative goals, and the type of story you want to tell. Whether you want a fast, all-in-one experience (like DeepStory) or more control and polish (like combining LiveMemory with Canva), the technology is there—and much of it is free or low-cost. What This Project Is (and Isn’t)This isn’t meant to be a polished documentary or in-depth biography. It’s a bite-sized memory, intended to spark curiosity, open the door to conversations, and inspire further exploration. It’s an experiment—one I’m continuing to test, tweak, and improve with each new ancestor story. And the best part? It’s totally free (or very low-cost), accessible to beginners, and endlessly customizable. Why This Might Be the Hook Your Family NeedsIf you’ve ever struggled to get your kids, siblings, or cousins interested in family history, this might be the answer. One well-timed 30-second story—told in a familiar-sounding voice, with compelling visuals—might connect in a way that a 40-page research report never could. Whether you’re a genealogist looking to share your work more meaningfully or a curious beginner looking for a creative spark, these tools open up a new frontier for storytelling. Want to Try It? I’m Happy to Help.If you’re curious about trying this with your own ancestors, feel free to reach out or drop a comment. I’d love to share what I’ve learned—or even walk you through the process step-by-step. Together, let’s explore new ways to make our family history speak—literally. Because even a 30-second voice from the past can echo for generations. More AI and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more AI in Genealogy and other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. #Genealogy #FamilyHistory #AncestorVoices #AIinGenealogy #ElevenLabs #ChatGPT #Canva #DigitalPreservation #CreativeGenealogy #FamilyLegacy #PreserveYourStory #AncestorStories #FreeGenealogyTools
6/8/2025 Uncovering a Legacy: African American, Native American, and Cherokee Freedmen AncestryRead Now Blended legacy: Portraits representing African American and Cherokee ancestry with the Trail of Tears in the background, honoring a powerful and complex family history Every so often, a genealogy case opens a door not only into a family’s past, but into the very heart of American history. This month, I had the privilege of working on a client case that stands out as one of the most fascinating and meaningful in my career—an extraordinary journey into ancestry that intersected African American history, Native American identity, Cherokee tribal heritage, and the legacy of slavery and survival through the Trail of Tears. As a professional genealogist, I’ve worked with African American families for many years. But this case took me into new and profound territory: tracing a lineage that included African Americans enslaved by Cherokee citizens, Cherokee Freedmen, free African Americans born well before the Civil War, “Intruders” in Indian Territory, and Cherokee ancestors themselves. One of the client’s 4th great-grandfathers, an enslaved African American, was documented as having been part of the Trail of Tears, and there may be more who were forced westward alongside him. This powerful ancestral story, woven through overlapping cultural and historical threads, became a case study in complexity, resilience, and historical truth. A Client’s Search for Her Roots Brittany approached me with a desire to know more about her paternal grandmother, who had died when her father was only about 6 years of age. With only limited information—her grandmother’s name and where she thought she was born and lived—she had struggled, like many descendants of slavery, to get past the genealogical roadblocks of the late 1800s. The 1870 census, often the earliest record available for African Americans, had always been her stopping point. Through careful research, I was able to build her tree back to her 4th great-grandparents, uncovering extraordinary stories along the way. One of the most powerful discoveries: an enslaved, by the Cherokee, African American ancestor who lived through the Trail of Tears, and another line of African American ancestors who had been free nearly a century before Emancipation. “Diane was able to locate census records, newspaper clippings/articles, Dawes Rolls records, marriage records, and death records dating back to the mid-1800s. Her research has helped me to feel empowered... I’ve never felt that before.” — Brittany Douglass, June 5, 2025 Exploring the African American & Native American Line One branch of Brittany’s ancestry told a layered and often painful story—one that included not only Cherokee Freedmen (African Americans who were formerly enslaved by Cherokee citizens and later adopted into the tribe), but also individuals classified as "Intruders" (those living in Indian Territory without tribal citizenship), enslaved African Americans, Cherokee Indians, and guardians assigned to freed people. This case required accessing and interpreting a wide variety of records related to both African American and Cherokee heritage:
The Free-at-Birth African American LineIn contrast to the complexities of tribal identity and enslavement, another branch of Brittany’s family revealed a powerful and lesser-known reality: African American ancestors who were free long before the Civil War. These families lived in North Carolina and surrounding states, owning land, engaging in community life, and navigating legal systems that continuously threatened their status. This line includes not only her direct ancestors, but also their extended networks--neighbors, guardians, church associates, and others who shared surnames or social ties. These clusters of people often served as informal safety nets, and researching them can provide the missing context needed to break through 19th-century barriers. Key records consulted included:
Two Deep-Dive Cluster Studies To build on this research, I am currently conducting two focused deep-dive studies, using cluster analysis to fully explore both lines: Study #1: African American & Cherokee Line This study includes not just the Freedmen and tribal members, but also:
This study examines:
Records and Repositories Utilized This case drew on a wide spectrum of genealogical records, archives, and online tools, including but not limited to: Record Types:
A Legacy Reclaimed This case was not just about finding records. It was about restoring stories—stories of freedom and displacement, survival and endurance, family and identity. It was about giving a modern-day descendant a tangible connection to those who came before her and showing her that her family’s legacy is not only powerful—it’s real, documented, and enduring. “Diane’s research has made me feel like I have a strong family legacy, and I’ve never felt that before.” If you’re struggling to find your roots, particularly if your ancestors were African American, Native American, or both, know this: the journey may be difficult, but your family’s story is out there. And it deserves to be found. More African Amercian GenealogyMore Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. More Genealogy Records6/1/2025 Exploring Google NotebookLM for Genealogy: An AI-Powered Research and Storytelling AssistantRead Now Exploring Google NotebookLM for Genealogy: An AI-Powered Research and Storytelling Assistant In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and genealogy, few tools have excited me recently as much as Google NotebookLM (short for “Language Model”). Designed as a powerful, AI-enhanced note-taking and research assistant, this tool is not only versatile but genuinely fun to use. Over the past few days, I’ve had the opportunity to test out its features, run multiple experiments, and explore its potential for genealogy, client work, family history storytelling, blogging, and even podcast creation. Here’s a look at what I discovered—and why this tool may quickly become one of your favorite digital companions in genealogical research. What Is Google NotebookLM? Google NotebookLM is an AI-powered notebook environment designed to help users understand, organize, and interact with their sources. It works by uploading or linking to your research materials—whether that be documents, PDFs, blog posts, URLs, or a combination of these. The AI then enables you to generate summaries, timelines, FAQs, study guides, audio overviews, and even creative outputs like presentation drafts or mind maps. You can think of it as your personal research assistant that reads, processes, and reflects back insights from the content you give it. How I Tested Google NotebookLM for Genealogy To evaluate its effectiveness for genealogical research, I created four notebooks focusing on different kinds of sources: 1. Using URLs as Sources
2. Blog-Based Notebook from a PDF
 Google NotebookLM Blog Commentary Example 3. Ancestor Profile & Research Summary PDFs
 Google NotebookLM Ancestor Research Example  Google NotebookLM Ancestor (Samuel Steinman) Research Mind Map Example 1  Google NotebookLM Ancestor (Samuel Steinman) Research Mind Map Example 1-2  Google NotebookLM Ancestor (Samuel Steinman) Research Mind Map Example 1-3  Google NotebookLM Ancestor (Samuel Steinman) Research Mind Map Example 1-4 4. Expanded Family Unit Research
What Can You Do With It? Here are some of my favorite features—and how I think genealogists can benefit from each: ✅ Generate Summaries Instantly turn long-form blog posts, research notes, or PDFs into a short and clean summary—perfect for client reports or family history write-ups. ✅ Create Study Guides This feature is ideal for genealogical lectures or self-paced learning. Upload materials related to a topic—say, U.S. Census research—and NotebookLM can produce a study guide with key concepts, takeaways, and learning objectives. ✅ Timelines Upload an ancestor profile, then generate a timeline of life events, residence changes, or historical context. Great for visualizing migration paths or summarizing a person’s life for storytelling. ✅ Briefing Documents Useful for prepping for presentations, consultations, or writing, these documents highlight the most important content in your source and synthesize it for quick reference. ✅ Mind Maps Visually organize related people, events, or themes in your research. Helpful for identifying clusters of activity, neighborhood patterns, or overlapping timelines. ✅ Source Guide Summaries & Discussions Let the AI pull out key topics, themes, and facts from a group of sources and engage with it like a thought partner—perfect for refining your analysis. ✅ Audio Overviews By far one of the most exciting features: NotebookLM can generate an audio summary of your notebook, reading out insights and highlights across your sources. You can download these as .wav files. Pro Tip: I took these audio clips and ran them through Adobe Podcast AI, which allowed me to polish them into high-quality MP3 podcast episodes. I even turned them into audigram videos (animated captioned transcripts) and posted them on YouTube using custom background images. This is a game-changer for genealogists looking to share research in accessible, engaging formats. How Genealogists Can Use NotebookLM The possibilities are vast, but here are a few practical ideas for everyday family historians and professionals:
NotebookLM: The Specs As of now, the date of this post (free version):
Final Thoughts: A Research Assistant in Your Pocket Google NotebookLM is still evolving, but its current feature set already offers an incredible amount of support for genealogical professionals, researchers, and bloggers. Whether you’re compiling research, creating content, or just trying to organize your thoughts and findings, this AI tool acts like a personalized assistant—one that reads your sources, listens to your needs, and responds with meaningful output. If you're looking to experiment with AI and haven’t yet tried NotebookLM, I highly recommend giving it a test drive. You may be surprised at how much it can enrich your research, storytelling, and creative process. Have you tried Google NotebookLM yet? What features are you most excited about—or curious to try? Let me know in the comments, and stay tuned for a follow-up post where I’ll share some real examples from my test notebooks, blog-to-podcast experiments, and ancestor research timelines! More AI and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more AI in Genealogy and other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
 Colonial-era records—from town books to land deeds—hold valuable clues for early American genealogy Researching ancestors in Colonial New England can be a rewarding but challenging journey. As I’ve been working through a family line in this region, I’ve found it helpful to reflect on and share some tried-and-true strategies that make the process smoother—and more successful. Whether you’re tracing your early American ancestors for the first time or revisiting a long-standing brick wall, these tips may help you extract more value from colonial records and perhaps even break through barriers you didn’t realize you had. Here are five essential tips I keep in mind while navigating 17th- and 18th-century records: 1. Cast a Wide Net for Phonetic Variations Spelling was not standardized in colonial records, and this applies to both surnames and place names. I’ve encountered multiple phonetic spellings of the same name within a single document or even in different sections of the same parish register. Scribes wrote names as they heard them, and spelling could shift depending on who was recording the information.
2. Use Multiple Source Types—And Compare Abstracts Colonial records were often incomplete, inconsistent, or have suffered damage over time. To compensate, cross-reference your findings across various record types:
3. Learn the Language of the Time Colonial records come with their own learning curve. Understanding period-specific abbreviations, handwriting styles, and terminology is essential to avoid misreading a valuable clue.
4. Don’t Stop at the Town Line Colonial boundaries were fluid, and record-keeping practices varied dramatically between towns—even between neighboring ones. If you hit a wall in one location, check surrounding towns, counties, or even colonies.
5. Keep Historical Context in Mind Colonial history wasn’t just a backdrop—it actively shaped the lives and records of our ancestors. Wars, disease outbreaks, changing borders, and religious schisms all impacted how and where records were created—or whether they survived at all.
Final Thoughts These five research tips have served me well as I continue my deep dive into Colonial New England genealogy. While colonial records can be cryptic and fragmented, they are also rich in detail for those willing to dig beneath the surface and take a broader, contextual approach. When we remain flexible in spelling, vigilant in cross-referencing, and attentive to geography and history, we greatly improve our chances of connecting the dots and telling a fuller family story. If you’re working on colonial ancestors too, I’d love to hear what strategies have worked for you. What are your favorite tips, surprises, or success stories? More Genealogy Research TipsGet more genealogy research tips, under the Genealogy Research Tips category. More Top GenealogyMore Genealogy RecordsLearn about more genealogy records and resources, under the Genealogy Records category and the Genealogy Resources category, along with on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
5/18/2025 Revisiting My Roots: Tracing the Life of My 6th Great-Grandfather, Michael Howlett (Hulet, Hulett, Hewlett)Read Now A peaceful colonial New England scene, evoking the rural landscape of 18th-century Connecticut where Michael Howlett (Hulet) once lived. For the past three days, I’ve done something I don’t often get to do: focus entirely on my own family history. And not just any part of it—but a line I haven’t seriously worked on in over a decade. What began as a quick revisit turned into a deep dive that consumed my every spare moment, and it reminded me why I love genealogy so much. So today’s blog post is a little different. It’s the first in what I hope will be an ongoing series documenting one ancestral line at a time, beginning with my 6th great-grandfather: Michael Howlett—a man whose descendants carried the name in many forms, from Hulet to Hulett, Hewlett, and back again. 🧬 Meet Michael Howlett (Hulet, Hewlett, Hulett, Hulet)Michael Howlett was born around 1677, likely in Newton, Massachusetts—though some sources point to Boston. His parents were John Howlett and Abigail (Powell), and in 1704, Michael married Experience Newton in Newton, Massachusetts. Together, Michael and Experience raised a large family--nine children born over a 20-year span. Around 1708, the family moved to south Killingly, Connecticut, where Michael purchased land and helped shape the early history of that area. It is unknown when he died (as I have not found any record of it), but many have him passing away around February 1774 in Killingly at the age of 98, which would mean he lived an impressively long life (not likely for that time). 🏡 A Man of the Land—and of the CovenantOne of the fascinating records I uncovered was Michael’s adult baptism at the Putnam First Congregational Church (then known as North Killingly Parish) on December 15, 1717. That same day, he entered into the church covenant and was officially admitted as a member. This detail—often overlooked in genealogies—offers insight into both his faith and community involvement. That community, by the way, was not without its tensions. South Killingly, during Michael's time, was known for irreconcilable religious differences that made life there less prosperous and more turbulent. Yet Michael remained, raised his family, and contributed to the settlement’s development. 📜 Children of Michael and Experience (Newton) Hulet:
*Note: Since all the vital records are abstracts of some kind, I will be using "about" for the dates found in them. Josiah married a Lydia (Lydia Unknown at this time and no marriage record has been found) and had 12 children; although, they seem quite old to have had the later children, but records show these children to be born to a Josiah and Lydia and they are the only Josiah and Lydia in the area and are on the records with other family members. All of their children were born in Killingly CT. Impressively, he d. after 1797, according to his sister, Experience's dated will. Children of Josiah and Lydia:
Daniel married Abigail Unknown and they had one child (only 1 child listed in his will and the same child being the only one found in vital records) who was born in Killingly CT. Daniel d. 1789 Killingly CT, according to his probate (his will was dated: 7 Jul 1789 and inventory of his estate was taken in Sep). Children of John and Sarah:
Nathaniel married Susannah Unknown and they had 5 children, the 1st being born in Killingly and the rest in Plainfied. He d. sometime between Jan-May 1790 (his will was dated 21 Jan 1790 and the inventory of his estate was taken 1 May 1790). Children of Nathaniel and Susannah:
John married Sarah Searls on 4 Dec 1746 in Killingly CT. All of their children were born in Killingly CT. Children of John and Sarah:
Oliver (my 5th great grandfather) married 1st Sarah Bensley, who died 8 FEB 1759 in Killingly and had 5 known children (with a possible 6th that some others have but I have found no record of), and 2nd Elizabeth Searles (possibly a sister to his brother’s wife-still looking into it) on 15 Nov 1759 in Killingly. All of their children were born in Killingly CT. Impressively, he d. after 1797, according to his sister, Experience's dated will. Children of Oliver and Sarah:
Experience married Ebenezer Kingsbury on 23 Feb 1743/4 in Plainfield CT and she died on 6 Nov 1803 in Plainfield CT. According to their wills, census records, and negative findings in vital records, they had no living children. 🔍 Research Tools and Resources
I’ve also been evaluating secondary sources with caution. While many compiled genealogies list children like Michael or Nehemiah, I treat them as unconfirmed until supported by documentary evidence. These phantom ancestors are a good reminder that names in trees aren’t always facts—they’re hypotheses that need testing. 📜 Notes of Records Used
A Note on Name Variations In colonial New England, surname spelling was far from standardized. This line alone has appeared in records as Howlett, Hewlett, Hulett, and Hulet—sometimes even in the same family or generation. Don’t let spelling limit your searches! 📚 What’s Next? In the next post in this series, I’ll shift the spotlight to Michael’s son and my 5th great-grandfather, Oliver Hulet, exploring his life, marriages, and their children—many of whom began to move into western Massachusetts and beyond. This series is part research log, part narrative, and part resource guide. I hope it inspires you to revisit your own lines with fresh eyes or perhaps helps you discover a new connection. Feel free to follow along—and if you’re a descendant or fellow researcher on the Hulet/Howlett line, I’d love to hear from you. Stay tuned for the next chapter in this family story. *Note: This post will be updated when there are new research findings, so it may constantly change. Have you ever returned to an old family line after years away and found something new? Or are you working on early New England ancestors too? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
 Ask your mom these 5 meaningful questions this Mother’s Day and preserve her story for generations to come! Mother’s Day is the perfect time to show appreciation for the women who raised us—and also an opportunity to preserve their stories. Whether you’re spending today with your mother, remembering her, or honoring a grandmother, aunt, or other maternal figure, don’t miss the chance to ask (or answer) a few simple but meaningful questions. As a genealogist, I know that the small conversations we have today become the precious records of tomorrow. So this Mother’s Day, try asking these five questions—either directly to your mother or someone who knew her well. 1. What was your mom like growing up? This question opens the door to stories about your grandmother’s childhood—stories that often aren’t written down anywhere. You might discover a surprising detail about her school days, friendships, or personality. 2. What is your favorite family tradition from childhood? Whether it’s Sunday dinners, birthday rituals, or how holidays were celebrated, these traditions help shape our identity and deserve to be remembered—and perhaps even revived. 3. Do you remember your grandmother’s cooking (or recipes)? Food is often tied to memory. Ask about the dishes that brought comfort or joy in childhood. Even better, write down the recipes or prepare one today in her honor. 4. What was your hardest or proudest moment as a mother? This question invites reflection and can uncover powerful, personal stories of resilience, sacrifice, or joy. It’s one of those questions that often yields unexpectedly touching responses. 5. Is there a story you want passed down to future generations?Sometimes mothers just need to be asked. This is a gentle prompt to encourage legacy-sharing in their own words—a gift not just for you, but for your children and grandchildren as well. Whether you ask one question or all five, today is a chance to connect, reflect, and preserve part of your family history. If your mother is no longer here, consider journaling your answers to these questions as you remember her—or asking a relative who knew her well. Let this Mother’s Day be more than flowers and cards. Let it be a celebration of story, memory, and legacy. What would you ask your mother today? Share your favorite questions—or answers—in the comments below.
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Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family: Family History and Genealogy BlogI hope my family history and genealogy blog on genealogy research tips, resources, events, and more, along with my own genealogy journeys, will help you in your research and in building your family tree to learn more about your ancestors and family history to preserve for future generations to come! Categories
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