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Reliving Family Memories with MyHeritage’s LiveMemoryWhen it comes to family history, photographs hold incredible power. They capture moments frozen in time, allowing us to get a glimpse into the lives and stories of our loved ones. But what if those moments could come alive, offering a richer and more emotional connection to the past? That’s exactly what MyHeritage’s newest feature, LiveMemory, aims to do. This AI-driven tool breathes life into still photos, animating scenes to create short video clips that feel like stepping back in time. As an early tester, I couldn’t wait to dive in and see how it worked with some of my cherished family photos. While the results varied, the emotional impact was undeniable. Here are a few examples from my collection, along with thoughts on this exciting new feature. Bringing My Family’s Photos to Life *Note: Next to each photo, I’ve included the animated video created with MyHeritage LiveMemory so you can see the transformation in action. The results showcase the potential of this new feature to turn still moments into dynamic memories. 1. Boxing Brothers (Circa 1950) One of my favorite photos of my father and his brother captures a playful moment in their childhood. Wearing boxing gloves and sparring in the yard, the scene is full of energy and sibling camaraderie. With LiveMemory, the photo was transformed into an animated clip that reimagined the movement of their playful punches and added a dynamic, lively feel to this treasured memory. 2. Lunch Counter Vacation (Circa 1950-1951) This one shows my grandparents with my aunt as a toddler, seated on bar stools at what looks like a lunch counter during a family vacation. My grandparents’ smiles and my aunt’s curiosity shine through the still image, but with LiveMemory, the scene was reanimated with subtle movements—my aunt wriggling slightly on her stool and my grandmother gesturing mid-laugh. It was as if I’d been transported to that moment in their lives. 3. A Fountain of Laughter (Circa 1951-1952)Another treasured photo shows my father as a mischievous boy, goofing off by my great-grandmother’s front-yard fountain—a fountain notorious in the family for its ability to “christen” grandchildren who fell into it. LiveMemory turned this snapshot into a whimsical video clip, capturing the joy and silliness of my father’s antics. 4. Beachside Bliss (Circa 1972-1973) One of my most nostalgic family photos features my mother, my sister, and me at the beach. My sister and I, then six and three, were savoring ice cream cones while taking a break from playing in the sand. The LiveMemory animation brought this scene to life with happenings in the background and a touch of movement as we posed mid-lick with our cones. How did MyHeritage know that my sister was full of mischievous antics, always picking on me, haha?! 5. Coffee Shop Elegance (1981) This final photo is a personal favorite of my mom, seated at a coffee shop in an outfit that made her look like a businesswoman, even though she wasn’t. With her coffee cup in hand and an air of casual sophistication, the LiveMemory animation enhanced the scene with her chatting away, while drinking her cup of coffee. The result was subtle but deeply moving, especially since she just passed away a few years ago and I miss her deeply. The Hits and Misses of LiveMemoryLiveMemory isn’t perfect—yet. While some animations were magical, others were more humorous surprises. For example, in one animation, the AI misinterpreted my photo, replacing my father and uncle with children of a completely different ethnicity! While it was amusing, it underscored that this feature is still in its early stages. Despite these quirks, I found LiveMemory to be a compelling tool with immense potential. It’s clear that as the technology improves, the results will only get better. Why You Should Try LiveMemoryIf you’re passionate about family history, LiveMemory is a must-try. It offers a unique way to engage with your photos, sparking nostalgia and deepening your emotional connection to your ancestors. Plus, it’s a fantastic tool for sharing your family stories with others, whether at reunions, online, or in your personal genealogy projects. Here’s how to get started and try it for FREE:
Final Thoughts While LiveMemory is still a work in progress, it’s an inspiring glimpse into the future of genealogy tools. It’s a reminder of how technology can bring our family histories closer, making the past feel detailed and alive. I can’t wait to see how this feature evolves and what stories it will help us tell in the years to come. Have you tried LiveMemory yet? I’d love to hear about your experience and see your animated memories! Try It for FREEThere is currently an unspecified number of free LiveMemory trys for anyone who wants to try out this new groundbreaking feature! So, give it a try at: MyHeritage LiveMemory (app downloads available) 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.
11/17/2024 Unlocking Family Histories: Using Marriage and Divorce Records in Genealogy ResearchRead NowUnlocking Family Histories: Using Marriage and Divorce Records in Genealogy ResearchMarriage and divorce records are vital tools for genealogists, offering a wealth of information that can bridge gaps in family histories and unlock new research avenues. These records do more than simply confirm marital unions and separations; they can reveal insights into family dynamics, economic conditions, social status, and much more. Let's explore the importance of these records, how to access them, and provide detailed examples to show their value in genealogy research. The Importance of Marriage Records in GenealogyMarriage records are among the most valuable documents in genealogy. They typically contain key details such as the names of the bride and groom, their ages, residences, occupations, and sometimes even the names of their parents. This information can provide vital links between generations and help establish timelines and locations for your ancestors. Key Information Found in Marriage Records:
Accessing Marriage Records Marriage records are typically held by local government offices, such as county courthouses or state archives, but they may also be found in church records. Some online databases, like Ancestry.com, FamilySearch, MyHeritage, and Findmypast, provide access to a wide range of marriage records. Example: Tracing a Family Line through Marriage Records Consider the case of tracing a maternal line through marriage records. Suppose you are researching your great-great-grandmother, Anna Marie Johnson, whose maiden name you discovered in a census record. To trace her maternal line, you look for her marriage record. You find a record showing that Anna Marie Johnson married John William Smith in 1885 in Cook County, Illinois. The marriage record lists her parents as Lars and Ingrid Johnson, providing you with the names you need to trace back further in Swedish immigration records. The Role of Divorce Records in Genealogy Divorce records, while often overlooked, can be equally valuable in genealogy research. These records can reveal much more than the fact that a marriage ended; they can provide insights into the lives of your ancestors, including economic conditions, social status, and even personal conflicts. Key Information Found in Divorce Records:
Accessing Divorce Records Divorce records are generally held by the same local government offices that hold marriage records. However, access to these records can be more restricted due to privacy concerns. Many states have a waiting period before these records are made public, so you may need to consult specific state laws or request the records directly from the courthouse. Example: Uncovering Family Secrets through Divorce Records Imagine you are researching your grandfather, who had a brief first marriage before marrying your grandmother. Family stories hint at a divorce, but no one knows the details. By accessing the divorce records, you discover that your grandfather divorced his first wife in 1942 in Los Angeles County, citing "desertion" as the cause. The records also reveal that there were no children from the marriage and that your grandfather moved to a different city after the divorce. This new information helps you piece together a more accurate picture of your grandfather's early life and the circumstances that led to his second marriage. Combining Marriage and Divorce Records for a Complete Family Picture Using marriage and divorce records together can help you construct a more complete family history. For instance, by tracking multiple marriages and divorces, you can follow the movement of an ancestor across different states or countries, understand changes in their economic status, and even uncover previously unknown children or step-siblings. Example: Building a Comprehensive Family History Consider the case of Mary Louise Brown, who was married three times. By accessing her marriage records, you discover that she married her first husband, James Taylor, in 1901 in New York. After his death, she remarried in 1915 to Charles Anderson in Ohio, as indicated by another marriage record. A third marriage record shows she married her final husband, Robert Davis, in 1930 in California. Divorce records reveal that her second marriage ended in divorce, with details of the division of their assets and the custody arrangements for their children. These records allow you to trace Mary Louise’s life from New York to Ohio to California, providing a rich, detailed narrative of her life and her family’s history. Conclusion Marriage and divorce records are indispensable tools in genealogy research, offering crucial details that help you build, verify, and expand your family tree. By carefully analyzing these records and using them in conjunction with other sources, you can uncover the stories of your ancestors, understand the social and economic contexts in which they lived, and preserve their legacy for future generations. Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or just starting out, these records are keys to unlocking the intricate history of your family. Tips for Using Marriage and Divorce Records in Your Research
By incorporating marriage and divorce records into your genealogy research, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your family’s past, uncovering stories and connections that might otherwise remain hidden. More 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. More Genealogy Research TipsGet more genealogy research tips, under the Genealogy Research Tips category.
When it comes to genealogy, I find myself consistently relying on one invaluable tool: DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project tool. This tool, developed by genetic genealogist Blaine Bettinger and hosted on DNA Painter, has become essential for mapping out DNA match relationships, whether in my personal family research or client cases. The Shared cM Project tool is simple in design, yet it offers powerful insights by estimating the range of possible relationships between DNA matches based on the number of shared centimorgans (cM). Why I Use the Shared cM Project Tool So Often Genealogical research is often like solving a complex puzzle where relationships and connections can be tricky to pin down, especially when it involves unknown parentage or unknown ancestors. When I’m working with DNA test results, whether for my family history or a client’s case, the Shared cM Project tool helps guide my analysis. It’s especially useful when I need to hypothesize the possible relationships between DNA matches and where they fit in, such as estimating whether someone is a likely second cousin, third cousin, or even further removed. How the Shared cM Project Tool Works The Shared cM Project tool works by allowing you to enter the amount of DNA (in centimorgans) shared with a particular match. Based on this input, the tool suggests a variety of possible relationships between you and the DNA match, along with the relationship probabilities (%) and a chart for those who are more visual, using data collected from thousands of known relationships. For example:
In complex cases with multiple DNA matches, the tool’s ability to highlight likely relationships can make a big difference in narrowing down the family tree branches I need to explore. Real-World Examples of DNA Painter’s Impact in My Research One example where DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project tool proved invaluable was during a recent client case involving unknown parentage. The client’s DNA results showed a close match with someone sharing approximately 426 cM, with Ancestry predicting them most likely as a 1st cousin 2x removed. Using the Shared cM Project tool, I quickly determined that this match could be a first cousin once removed (1c1r), a half great-nephew, or a very close half-first cousin (Half 1c), along with a few lesser possibilities. This critical insight provided a starting point for further investigation, allowing me to zero in on specific family lines and greatly simplifying what could have been a lengthy process. This match wound up being a half great nephew, the grandchild of an unknown child who was the product of yet another affair of her father. Another instance was during my own family research when I discovered another mystery match who shared approximately 201 cM with me. Initially, I had no idea how this person could fit into my tree. However, with the Shared cM Project tool’s suggestions, I was able to focus on the second cousin range as the most likely relationship, which eventually led me to an unknown child of my great uncle. Why It’s My Go-To Tool for Client Work For clients, the Shared cM Project tool is particularly useful because it streamlines the initial stages of DNA analysis. I can quickly interpret the data and explain potential relationships to clients, making the information accessible without overwhelming them with technical jargon. It’s also a fantastic educational tool when clients want to learn more about their DNA matches and what their results might mean. How to Get Started with DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project Tool If you’re interested in trying it out for yourself, DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project tool is free to use on the DNA Painter website. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about genetic genealogy, especially when working with DNA matches that aren’t immediately obvious. By simplifying the complex relationship possibilities that arise in DNA results, this tool has become indispensable in my toolkit. Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or a beginner just starting to explore the world of DNA, I can’t recommend DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project tool enough. It’s the kind of tool that evolves with you, adding precision to your research as you dive deeper into the fascinating world of genetic genealogy. More Genetic Genealogy/DNA ResourcesFind more DNA genealogy resources, tips, and other info under the Genetic Genealogy and DNA category. More Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
11/3/2024 A Heartwarming Reunion Through Genealogy and DNA– Reuniting a Family Across Time and DistanceRead NowSometimes, our journeys into the past uncover more than names and dates; they bring people together in ways that go beyond generations. Recently, I had the privilege of helping a client, Taylor, bring closure to a family mystery that stretched across continents and decades. Her father, George, born in Japan to a Japanese mother and an American serviceman stationed abroad, had been adopted at the age of five and brought to the United States. He spent a lifetime wondering about his biological roots, especially about the father he never knew. The Initial Reach-Out When Taylor first reached out to me over a year ago, her message was filled with hope but frustrated by the challenges they faced. She shared her father’s background—adopted with no father listed on his birth certificate, the only information available was that his biological mother (after finding her) had shared he was the son of a U.S. serviceman from Illinois. Her father had already initiated DNA testing, and had second-cousin matches, but no close relatives. While Taylor and her father had so few pieces of the puzzle, his desire to know his roots drove them to push forward. A Methodical Search and Discovery After assessing Taylor's information, I felt confident there was a path forward. To deepen the search, we explored her father’s AncestryDNA matches. Using a combination of grouping his DNA matches, creating a family tree for a common ancestral couple, and tracing their descendants, I began piecing together connections through military records, locations, dates, and family history. Through a systematic search—one that involved analyzing both historical records and genetic links—I was able to zero in on Taylor’s paternal line and locate the most likely candidate as her father’s biological father, as well as providing her photo comparisons of him and her father. Within a day, we had identified not only a likely father but also a living child of this man—Taylor's father’s biological sister. Yet, DNA results and facts alone don’t guarantee a reunion. Reaching out to this newfound family member required sensitivity and respect for the complex emotions involved. The First Contact and the Waiting Game When I reached out to this newly discovered sister, her response was understandably cautious. With respect and empathy, I explained the background, how I came to contact her, and what this connection could mean for her. She asked for time to process this life-changing news, and I let her know that there was no pressure for a quick response. An Unexpected Reunion and Heartfelt Gratitude Several months later, I received an email from Taylor. It read, "I just wanted to let you know that my dad’s biological sister did end up contacting him. They connected a few months back and speak pretty regularly. I believe one day they will probably meet in person too. I just wanted to say thanks again for your help and finding closure for my dad!" This was fantastic news. Taylor’s father and his sister had formed a connection—one that went beyond genealogy or even the search itself. They were becoming part of each other's lives, bridging the years and miles that had kept them apart. Just days ago, I received an even happier update: "Hi again! I wanted to share this photo with you. We went out to meet my dad’s biological sister Cheryl in Florida. Thank you again for all of your help. You have made such a big impact on my dad’s life and my long-lost aunt’s life by connecting them. I will forever appreciate it!" Reflecting on the Power of Family Connections Every genealogy journey is unique, but stories like Taylor’s are reminders of the profound impact family connections have on our lives. It was an honor to help this family find the answers they sought, and to witness such a happy outcome. Connecting people to their roots isn’t only about tracing family trees. It’s about bringing families together, offering healing, and sometimes changing lives in unexpected, wonderful ways. Taylor’s father now has a sister in his life, and both he and his daughter, Taylor, have more pieces of their family story than they ever imagined possible. This was more than a happy ending—it was a beginning for a family reconnected across time and place. The Client's Review on Google and Yelp"My father is 70 years old and was adopted at a very young age from Japan. For all of this time, it has been a mystery as to who his father was. Me and my siblings are in our 20s and thought it was finally time to hire a professional and see what we could uncover. Within a very short time of emailing her, Diane responded to us almost immediately and was eager to help. Since we had such limited information, we held our breaths in case there wasn't enough to work with. To our surprise (and delight), Diane found my biological grandfather within the same weekend! She was thorough and informative at every step, keeping us updated and explaining what she was doing. She went above and beyond to help us and it has been eye-opening to know our ancestry after all of this time! We highly recommend Diane and will always be grateful for the work she did for us. 10/10! Thanks for all of your efforts!" -Taylor N Interested in Discovering Your Own Family Story?If you have questions about your family history or are searching for long-lost relatives, you don’t have to navigate the journey alone. With professional guidance, uncovering the stories and connections of your family tree can be within reach. Feel free to reach out—each family story is unique, and I’m here to help bring yours to light.
Genealogy often feels like a puzzle, but sometimes it can resemble a mystery novel with unexpected twists and hidden characters. Recently, I encountered another “mystery match” on Ancestry—a previously unknown relative who shared a significant amount of DNA with my 1c2r, while working on organizing her paternal DNA matches (the side we share), yet didn’t quite fit into the known family tree. Here’s how I approached this genealogical mystery and pieced together the clues. 1. A Surprising Match: The First Clue The journey began with a surprising DNA match categorized as “Close Family” by Ancestry. They shared 426 cM of DNA and Ancestry predicted them as a 1st cousin 2x removed, which these centimorgans suggests a relationship in the range of a 1st cousin 1x removed (1c1r), a half grandnephew, a great-great nephew, or a half first cousin (1/2 1c), among others—each intriguing and requiring a closer look to confirm. 2. Tools for Relationship Estimation Using three key tools, Ancestry’s “Frequency of Relationships”, DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project Tool, and MyHeritage’s cM Explainer tool, I analyzed these possible relationships. Both former tools highly suggested the most likely possibilities were Great-Great-Nephew, Half Great-Nephew, 1C1R, Half 1C, Half Great- Uncle, or possibly a Great-Great-Uncle, and the later tool highly suggested 1C1R. But this was just the start—the tools help narrow the field, but genealogy is about testing hypotheses. 3. Shared Matches: Clues from Family Connections I began comparing their shared matches. By cross-referencing these shared matches, I found some links that connected our DNA mystery to known family members who are descendants of her grandparents’ children, thus her father and his siblings—in which two are known to have had extramarital affairs. This provided an important clue: this new match was likely another result of our family’s history of complex relationships. 4. Analyzing cM Comparisons and Mapping Relationships To further test my hypothesis, I reviewed the cM values of known family members who share connections with this mystery match, using not only the Shared Matches tool, but the Shared Matches Pro Tool as well. Comparing cM values from other relatives on this line, I found patterns that suggested a very close family link. Based on their age (if the match is the only associate of the test manager that I found in public records with a name that fits the screen name initials) and likely generation, the match seemed to fit best as a half great-nephew--but identifying exactly where they fit requires more direct evidence, thus more work needs to be done analyzing cM comparisons and mapping relationships for the other 3 possibilities—1C1R, Great-Great-Nephew, or Half 1C. 5. Reaching Out to Potential Relatives The next step was to contact the mystery match’s test manager, as his screen name was just initials. Although the account had been inactive for over a year, I tried reaching out via Ancestry messages and Facebook (after I checked through public records, so I knew who to look for based off age, location, and associates). This is often a waiting game, and not everyone responds, but sometimes, persistence pays off. Every piece of information can make a difference, and connecting with living relatives can clarify lingering questions. 6. Lessons Learned: Tips for Investigating Mystery Matches This mystery match investigation highlighted several useful techniques for anyone facing a similar DNA puzzle:
By following these steps, I’ve gotten closer to understanding how this mystery match fits into our family story. DNA testing is a powerful genealogical tool, but it’s detective work as well. Each match is another chapter in the family’s story—one just waiting to be told. © 2024 Diane Henriks @ Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family More Genetic Genealogy/DNA ResourcesFind more DNA genealogy resources, tips, and other info under the Genetic Genealogy and DNA category. More Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. More Genealogy Brick Walls and MysteriesFind more genealogy brick wall research, tips, and other info under the Genealogy Brick Wall Research category. More Genealogy Research TipsFind more genealogy research tips under the Genealogy Research Tips category.
As a professional genealogist, ongoing education is crucial to stay current with research methodologies, technological advancements, and the tons of records becoming more accessible each year. For many years, I’ve accumulated a massive amount of genealogy education through conferences, webinars, courses, and self-study. However, I recently realized I had been significantly underreporting my continuing education for my Association of Professional Genealogists (APG) membership requirements. The reason? Lack of organization. So, in the past few weeks, I took the plunge to fully organize my genealogical education history, and the results were definitely eye-opening. Here’s what I learned and how this process helped me not only stay on top of my education reporting but also manage my professional development more effectively. The Need for Organization: A Revelation Like many genealogists, my continuing education consists of various formats: live webinars, virtual conferences, in-person events, self-paced courses, and even independent study. I was doing what many of us tend to do—taking scratch notes, saving digital files here and there, and quickly logging attendance at conferences and workshops without creating a comprehensive record. This made tracking and reporting my education hours an overwhelming task at the end of each year. It wasn’t until I started going through old emails, registration confirmations, attendance certificates, title slide screenshots from webinars (that I take to help remember the presentation, date, and instructor) and even paper notes that I realized how much I had missed. Some educational experiences were completely undocumented in my official reports. I discovered a substantial gap between what I had reported and what I had actually accomplished. This discovery led me to dig through every possible source of educational material I had collected—paper notes, digital files, conference handouts, downloaded syllabi, and more, since the beginning of my educational journey. It wasn’t just about fulfilling my reporting requirements; it was about honoring the investment I had made in my professional growth. The Outcome: 684.75 Hours and Counting After combing through years’ worth of genealogical education, I tallied an impressive 684.75 hours from numerous organizations and institutions, including:
This extensive list includes conferences and webinars from 2014 onward (couldn’t find old handouts before then-must have thrown them away 😉), though my education truly accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. With so much online, I could attend a wide range of events, sometimes at no cost due to being a speaker, and I had the rare gift of time this past year and a half as I recovered from a work injury. Looking back, the pandemic period allowed my professional development to flourish in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Lessons Learned: The Importance of Tracking Genealogy Education The biggest takeaway from this experience is that organization is key to staying on top of continuing education, particularly when you’re juggling a variety of events, both in-person and virtual. My underreporting was simply a result of poor organization—not a lack of dedication. Here’s what I plan to do moving forward to ensure I stay on top of my genealogical education:
ExampleI have created spreadsheets for each year since 2014. Here are a couple of example pages, from 18 and counting, for 2024. A New Perspective on My Educational Journey One surprising realization during this process was how much I had grown as a genealogist since 2014. My education truly evolved, particularly when so much went online during the pandemic. The ability to participate in conferences and webinars from the comfort of home expanded my horizons significantly. I also saw how much I had learned through self-study, which often goes unrecognized but is equally valuable. Going forward, I’m committed to keeping my education organized, not only for reporting purposes but also to help me find handouts, syllabi, and materials more easily when I need them. This organization will also serve as a resource if anyone ever asks about my educational background or if I want to reflect on particular subjects. Final Thoughts: Get Organized Now, Not Later If you’re a professional genealogist—or even a dedicated hobbyist—it’s never too early to start organizing your genealogy education. You may be surprised by how much you’ve learned and accomplished when you start documenting it fully. Don’t let disorganization hold you back from accurately reporting or leveraging your hard-earned knowledge. Trust me, the process will make your life easier in the long run and allow you to continue growing as a genealogist. So, take a few hours to go through your old notes, emails, and certificates. Your future self will thank you! © 2024 Diane Henriks @ Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family More Organization and other Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more organization tips and other family history and genealogy resources under the Organization and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
AncestryDNA just launched its biggest update yet, adding a variety of new features and regions designed to help us get more out of our DNA results. This update includes a total redesign of the platform, offering improved accessibility, faster performance, and enhanced mobile support. With the launch of 24 new DNA regions and the introduction of 54 subregions in Europe, as well as 64 ethnic groups in Africa, this is Ancestry’s most significant update to date. Let's take a look at what's new and how these changes can impact your family history journey. 1. New Regions and Subregions: Precision at Its Finest AncestryDNA has expanded its geographic coverage significantly with the introduction of 24 new DNA regions. This includes:
2. African Ethnic Groups: A Cultural Deep Dive A standout feature of the update is the addition of ethnic groups in Africa, which reflect communities of people who share common cultural characteristics, such as language, religion, customs, and national origin. Ancestry has added 64 ethnic groups, providing a richer understanding of African heritage. This is a significant leap forward, especially for those researching African ancestry, where historical records can often be scarce or difficult to trace. With these ethnic groups, we can explore connections beyond just geography. The groups provide insight into cultural dynamics, migration patterns, and community history, offering a deeper perspective on their ancestral stories. 3. Refreshed Design and Feature Name Changes In addition to the new regions and features, AncestryDNA has undergone a total redesign. The new, more accessible design aims to enhance usability, whether you're accessing the site on a desktop or a mobile device. Several features have also been renamed for greater clarity:
4. Improved Performance and Accessibility AncestryDNA’s update isn’t just cosmetic—it's also designed to improve site performance. The updated platform supposedly gives faster load times, even on slower connections, to make it easier to explore our results without delay. Enhanced support for mobile devices will mean that you can seamlessly access your DNA insights on the go. 5. Enhancements and Future Plans Ancestry’s redesign also seems to lay the groundwork for future enhancements. While the update intends to improve user experience and understanding of the platform, it also sets the stage for more features and tools in the coming months and years. We can look forward to continued improvements that will further refine the accuracy and depth of our results. My Experience: New Insights and a Few Growing Pains Personally, my Ancestral Regions (formerly "Ethnicity Estimates") have remained fairly consistent and seem to align even more closely with my known family history. I’ve noticed the increased precision in the new subregions, which has given me a deeper understanding of my ancestral ties. However, there are still a few kinks in the system. For example, although my regions were marked as “Updated October 2024,” it now shows “Updated July 2024.” Additionally, some of the new subregions assigned to me were removed within days of the update. I’ve also encountered issues with managing my list of others DNA results that I manage, which is now disorganized and not in alphabetical order as it was before. Despite these minor bugs, the update is a significant improvement, offering a more immersive and accurate understanding of my DNA results. The potential for future enhancements makes me hopeful that AncestryDNA will continue to evolve and improve over time. User Experience Challenges: Not All Changes Are for the BetterWhile AncestryDNA's latest update has introduced exciting new features and a fresh design, there are some changes that make navigating the platform more difficult for users like myself.
Final Thoughts Ancestry’s biggest DNA update brings exciting new features and refinements that will help genealogists and family historians gain more insight into their ancestral roots. From expanded regions to enhanced design and performance, this update represents a major step forward in how we explore our family history. While there are still a few hiccups to iron out, and some important features that I found useful now missing or changed, the overall experience has been positive, and I’m looking forward to seeing how Ancestry will continue to build on these improvements. If you haven’t already, now is a great time to revisit your AncestryDNA results and see how these new updates could unlock more of your family story. © 2024 Diane Henriks @ Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family 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.
The Southern California Genealogical Society (SCGS) has long been at the forefront of genealogy education with its flagship event, Jamboree. This conference has earned its reputation as the largest "single society" genealogy conference in the U.S., attracting family historians and professional genealogists from across the globe. Last year marked a significant milestone, as they celebrated the 53rd Jamboree conference and the 10th Genetic Genealogy conference, featuring renowned speakers and enriching sessions that inspired attendees. Traditionally held at the Burbank Marriott in Burbank, California, Jamboree adapted to the challenges posed by the pandemic, by going virtual. In 2023, the event adopted a hybrid format, effectively separating the conferences into the Genetic Genealogy event in the spring and the Genealogy Jamboree in the fall. Introducing Genealogy Jam This year, I'm excited to announce a new evolution: Genealogy Jam! While the name may be new, the mission remains the same—offering a strong platform for genealogical learning and community building. Genealogy Jam will be a one-day event filled with targeted sessions, based off of a theme, designed to provide attendees with practical skills and insights. While we will miss the three full days of programming that everyone has come to love, I believe this focused format will deliver high-impact learning opportunities. Expect a thematic approach, which will guide the sessions and enhance your overall experience. This year's theme is "Discovering Our Southwest Heritage". Why Attend? If you’ve been longing for in-person connections, Genealogy Jam is the perfect opportunity to re-engage with the genealogical community. With many conferences shifting to virtual formats, this event offers a rare chance to participate in face-to-face learning. You will not only gain valuable knowledge but will also have the opportunity to meet fellow genealogists, share experiences, and build new friendships. Don’t miss out on:
Register Now! Be a part of this exciting day dedicated to genealogical education and community engagement. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or just starting your family history journey, Genealogy Jam promises to deliver valuable content and connections. Make sure to register soon to secure your spot for this hybrid event. Join a day that aims to inspire, educate, and celebrate our shared passion for genealogy! I can't wait!
In today’s age of digitized records and advanced DNA testing, many of us are uncovering parts of our family histories that challenge long-standing narratives passed down through generations. As a professional genealogist, I've been on a decades-long journey to trace my own ancestry, but it wasn't until recent years that my research took a surprising turn that made me question the stories I had heard about my Mexican heritage. A recent NBC News article titled "They're uncovering their ancestry — and questioning their families' racial narratives" caught my attention. The piece highlights a growing trend among Latinos who, through genetic testing and historical records, are learning that their family stories, which often focused on white Spanish ancestry, are more complex than they thought. Many are discovering African roots and a legacy of slavery, which were often left out of oral histories. For me, this hit home in a very personal way, as my own genealogical research has led to a similar realization. The Family Stories We Grew Up With Growing up, I always heard that my great-grandmother, who came from Canatlán, Mexico, was of pure Spanish descent. This was the story that was told to my family, passed down as fact through generations. As I began tracing her lineage, however, I was eager to verify and expand upon this history with the help of historical documents, church records, and eventually DNA testing. I was able to trace her Mexican roots back to my 5th and 6th great-grandparents—some of whom were in Mexico for generations. But when I dug deeper into the records, what I found was unexpected. While I had anticipated discovering ties to Spain, I uncovered something quite different. Church records for one set of my 5th great-grandparents listed one ancestor as Mulatto and the other as Mestizo. This discovery shed light on a much more intricate and diverse ancestry than the one my family believed. These terms indicated a blending of African, Indigenous, and European heritage, unraveling a piece of family history that had long been hidden or forgotten. The Role of DNA Testing The puzzle became even more fascinating when I turned to DNA testing. While my own DNA results showed Mexican and Hispanic ancestry, there was no African ancestry detected. However, when I examined my paternal uncle's DNA (who shares my Mexican great-grandmother), 2% African ancestry appeared. This is particularly significant because it supports the findings from the church records—matching up with the records of a Mulatto ancestor from generations ago. The absence of African DNA in my results, yet its presence in my uncle's, makes sense given that I am one generation further removed, showing how DNA inheritance can vary within family lines. This surprising fact sparked more questions. Could this African ancestry have been part of the transatlantic slave trade? Mexico, like much of Latin America, had a history of African enslavement, yet this part of its history is often overlooked or minimized in both public discourse and family narratives. The 2% of African ancestry in my uncle’s DNA may be a remnant of this history, and while I can’t say definitively that these ancestors were enslaved, the possibility certainly raises interesting questions about the lives they lived. Rewriting Family Narratives Like many families with Mexican heritage, my ancestors' stories seemed to be shaped by a desire to emphasize their European or Spanish roots. In a society where social status could be influenced by one’s perceived racial makeup, it's understandable why families may have focused on their Spanish lineage while downplaying African or Indigenous ancestry. But as genealogists, our task is to uncover the truth—even when it complicates long-held family narratives. This process of discovery has been both surprising and enlightening. It has deepened my appreciation for the rich and diverse history of my Mexican ancestors, who were not solely defined by Spanish colonialism, but by a blending of cultures—African, Indigenous, and European—that shaped Mexico’s unique heritage. It's a reminder that our family histories are far more complex than we often realize. The Legacy of African Roots in Mexico The NBC News article highlights an important point: Latino families across the Americas are coming to terms with the African and Indigenous roots that have been long buried in their family stories. For those of us with Mexican ancestry, the story is no different. From the early days of colonial Mexico, people of African descent played a vital role in the country's development, from laborers to soldiers and artisans. Many of their descendants became part of the mestizo and mulatto populations that have long been a key aspect of Mexico’s racial landscape. My Personal Journey of Discovery As I reflect on my genealogical research, it’s clear that DNA testing and digitized records have opened up new avenues for understanding our past. For years, my family believed in a specific narrative about our Spanish ancestry, but research and records have illuminated the deeper, more complex roots of our heritage. My journey into my Mexican great-grandmother’s lineage has revealed ancestors who not only lived in Mexico for generations but also carried with them African heritage that was not part of our family’s oral history. It’s an interesting contrast—the stories passed down through the family about Spanish origins, and the concrete evidence of African roots that church records and DNA testing have revealed. Like many others, my family’s story is not just about a direct descent from European colonists. It's about the mixing of people and cultures in ways that weren’t always acknowledged but are now, in the light of modern genealogy, coming to the front line. Conclusion In my journey as a genealogist, I’ve always found gratification in piecing together the fragments of our ancestors' lives. My Mexican heritage has proven to be way more complex than the family stories I was told growing up, and I am grateful for the tools that have allowed me to uncover these hidden stories. Whether through digitized church records or DNA testing, we have the power to rewrite our family histories—embracing the full scope of who our ancestors were and the rich, diverse cultures they represented. As Latinos, as genealogists, and as individuals, we must remain open to these discoveries, allowing ourselves to be surprised by the truth. It is through these surprising facts that we can more fully understand our place in history and honor our complete family legacies. © 2024 Diane Henriks @ Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family Note to readers: Have you discovered unexpected ethnic roots through your family history research? Has DNA testing or historical records revealed surprising details about your ancestors? I'd love to hear your stories in the comments below! More Hispanic Genealogy Tips and ResourcesLearn about more Hispanic genealogy tips and resources under the Mexican Genealogy category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. More African Genealogy Tips and ResourcesLearn about more Hispanic genealogy tips and resources under the African American Genealogy category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
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