Saturday 3 June 2017

Southern California Genealogical Society Jamboree and DNA Day

On Tuesday next week I'm heading off to the US. I've been invited to speak at the Southern California Genealogical Society's annual Jamboree and DNA Day which this year includes a British research theme. I will be giving four presentations and participating in the DNA panel session.

I'm looking forward to meeting some of my genetic genealogy and geneablogging friends who I have previously only known through Facebook groups and mailing lists. I'm also looking forward to meeting some of my US friends from the Guild of One-Name Studies.

Here are the details of my sessions.

Thursday 8th June
12.30-1.45 pm
TH016 DNA Luncheon - The DNA of the British Isles
Britain and Ireland have been in continuous occupation since 12,000 years ago when hunter gatherers arrived. Agriculture began at the start of the Neolithic (4,000 BC). The country has been invaded by Romans, Angles, Saxons, Picts, Danes, Vikings and Normans. What can DNA testing tell us about the people of these islands? Pioneering research projects are starting to provide some answers. Levels: Beg., Int., Adv.

Friday 9th June
2.30-3.30 pm
FR016 The Joy of Surnames
Each surname has its own story to tell. This lecture provides an overview of the history and distribution of surnames with a focus on surnames originating in the British Isles. The one-name study approach can provide breakthroughs that would not be possible by restricting research to your own family tree. Become a worldwide expert on your chosen surname. Level: Beg., Int., Adv.

Friday 9th June
5.30-6.30 pm
FR028 DNA and Genealogy: Experts Discuss Latest Developments
DNA testing experts will discuss the connection between DNA testing and genealogy, what tests are available, and which companies provide which tests. Advances being made in the field of Genetic Genealogy will be examined. Audience questions will be answered in the second half of the program.
Level: Beg., Int., Adv. Moderator: Alice M. Fairhurst, MS, Panelists: Angie Bush, MS; David R. Dowell, PhD; Debbie A. Kennett; Drew Smith, MLS; Diahan Southard

Saturday 10th June
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
SA004 Census, Parish, and Other Records in the UK
Explore the key name-rich records from parish registers to protestation returns that will supercharge your British research. Level: Beg, Int. Adv.

Saturday 10th June
3.30-4.30 pm 10th June
SA039 Crossing the Pond with Your Surname DNA Project
A successful surname DNA project adopts a global approach to recruitment but with a primary focus on the country of origin. The approach of whole surname reconstruction is particularly effective for surnames from England and Wales due to the availability of centralised records from which to reconstruct family trees. This helps identify suitable candidates for DNA testing. Level: Beg., Int., Adv.

You can see the full programme on the SCGS website.

If you read my blog and will be going to the conference do come and say hello.