Easter Greetings

 With thanks to all who follow this blog.

25 Years of Pride and Joy

It's the 25th Anniversary of our journey as Grandparents. This wonderful journey has given us 12 beautiful, individual and amazing descendants. 

Today we shine a light on the firstborn of the tribe who is away at university. We send her greetings of  love and pride and look forward to some celebratory cake, candles and champers when she comes home for Easter. 

Genealogy Methods and Techniques: A Practical Guide to Research

 Genealogy Methods and Techniques: A Practical Guide to Research

Dr Karen Cummings
eBook ISBN: 9780719846090

I was pleased to receive an electronic copy of this book for review. In Australia, the eBook will be available through Amazon and Booktopia from 26 March, with the paperback available for pre-order from several local booksellers.

Dr Karen Cummings, an accredited professional genealogist and educator, is well known and respected in the genealogy community. She is also active on social media, where I have followed her work for many years.

In a publishing world where many genealogy texts originate in the United States, it is refreshing to encounter a contemporary guide from the United Kingdom. This book offers a thoughtful and practical approach to genealogical methodology that will appeal to both beginners and experienced researchers.

From a usability perspective, the book includes features that many information professionals value: a comprehensive index, detailed footnotes, and chapter-by-chapter references. These make it easy to navigate and to use as an ongoing reference rather than a one-time read.

One of the book’s strengths is its non-prescriptive approach. Rather than promoting a single “correct” way to conduct genealogical research, the author presents a range of options and approaches. This is particularly welcome in a field where research circumstances, record availability, and personal goals can vary widely.

Early in the book, the distinction between genealogy and family history is explored, with the reminder that “there is no correct scope for family history, and all sizes and shapes of project are equally valid.” This inclusive perspective sets the tone for what follows.

A standout chapter focuses on referencing. Instead of assuming a single national or institutional standard, the author surveys commonly used citation systems in international genealogical practice. Her practical advice—including the observation that “there are better things to do with your time than obsess over the use and position of a semi-colon!”—will resonate with many researchers.

I always learn something from a new genealogy book, and this was no exception. I discovered the Mary Hill colour-coding system, explored the use of Calmware, and picked up useful ideas for my One Place Study. The sections on timelines, mind maps, and identifying gaps in research were particularly helpful.

While the book is accessible for beginners, it also offers significant value to more experienced genealogists. It addresses methodological developments such as software, online resources, and DNA, encouraging readers to reassess and refine their practices rather than simply repeat familiar routines.

The UK focus will be especially relevant to Australian family historians, many of whom have ancestral roots in Britain. Importantly, the content is presented in a way that remains broadly applicable rather than narrowly regional.

The text is well supported by diagrams, illustrations, and reproductions of certificates, all of which enhance understanding. Case studies effectively demonstrate how the methods and resources discussed can be applied in practice.

The eleven chapters are logically structured, guiding the reader through locating, evaluating, using, recording, and sharing information. Most chapters conclude with clear summaries and practical action steps.

Overall, this is a valuable and thoughtful contribution to modern genealogical literature, combining sound methodology with practical guidance and international relevance.

Jill Ball
BA (Library Science), Grad. Dip Ed., M. Ed.

WikiTree Progress

Ensuring that our relations have a profile on WikiTree has eaten up most of my research time recently. Direct Ancestors have been my priority. 

Following are ancestor trees on RootsMagic. The yellow bars on left of names indicate that the person has a profile on WikiTree. The Orange dots on the right indicate that there is a hint on Ancestry, MyH, FMP or FamilySearch.

My Tree

My ancestors in the Emerald Isle have created some research challenges. I've had more success on the husband's lines.

My Husband's Tree

Looks like I have to do some more digging on Joseph Brooksbank - the red arrow suggests an issue. 

My Irish Roots

On St Patrick’s Day, I find myself reflecting on my Irish roots and the enduring legacy of the ancestors who came before me.

In recent years, DNA testing has added another dimension to my understanding of that heritage. Today, my Irish ancestry is estimated as:

• 23andMe: 70.9%

• Ancestry: 64%

• FTDNA: 49%

• MyHeritage: Results pending

Like many family historians, I’ve discovered that ethnicity estimates can vary between testing companies. When I compare these figures with my traditional genealogical research, I believe my Irish ancestry likely sits somewhere between the higher estimates from 23andMe and Ancestry.

But beyond the percentages and data, it’s the people and their stories that matter most.

Today, I remember the Irish men and women in my family who made the long and often arduous journey from Ireland to Australia in the 19th century. Their courage, resilience, and determination laid the foundations for the generations that followed.

These ancestors have profiles at WikiTree:

• Patrick Curry, who arrived aboard the Hooghley in 1825

• Ellen Moore, on the Mariner in 1825

• Dennis Tierney and Elizabeth D’Arcy, who travelled together on the China in 1839

• Margaret McKeon, who came on the Earl Grey in 1841

• Bridget Ryan, arriving on the British Empire in 1849

• Michael Molloy, came before 1852

• Catherine Connolly, who arrived before 1852

• Mary Cregan, who travelled on the Derwent in 1850

• Mary Kealy, arriving later on the Kapunda in 1877

Each of these names represents a story — of leaving home, crossing oceans, and building new lives in an unfamiliar land. Their journeys were not easy, but their legacy lives on in the lives of their descendants.

As I reflect this St Patrick’s Day, I’m reminded that family history is more than names and dates. It is about connection — to people, places, and the past.

It is also about preservation: ensuring that these stories are not lost, but carried forward for future generations. WikiTree provides an excellent platform to preserve those sstories

Today, I honour my Irish ancestors — and I remain grateful for the paths they forged.

Happy St Patrick’s Day. ☘️

Note: I used ChatGPT to tidy up my post and then defancified their flowery language and added links prior to posting.

Late to the Party

 I've noticed several genimates posting caricatures on social media and, as I have a bit of spare time for play this week, decided to hop on the bandwagon. 

I started with a very simple prompt suggested in a ChatGPT advertisement on Facebook. It was suggested to add a photo of me with the following prompt. "Create a caricature of me based on everything you know about me." 

What came back was a creditable caricature of me but with very thick painted on eyebrows. The image focused on my interests in reading and travel but made no reference to family history. It also had a cat plonked on the desk, I'm a dog girl through and through. 

After asking ChatGPT to recognise my involvement with family history, make a few deletions (cat and eyebrows) and to add a dog like my Paddy plus my GeniAus avatar I was rewarded with the following which I think is quite representative. 

Should I ask ChatGPT to add something else to recognise my obsession for taking thousands of snapshots on my smartphone and camera  as I wander around our world? 

Genearosity - Not Just for Now

This morning I have been throwing a few ideas around and putting them into a Powerpoint for today's Hangout with the SAG - a weekly online get together and chatfest for Members of the Society of Genealogists.

The Hangout reminder on social media

As the host I chose the topic of "Genearosity - Kindness and Consideration in the Genealogy Community." I am hoping that those present will relate stories of when they have been the recipients of kind acts but, in case those online are shy, I have up my sleeve a few slides telling of times when I have experienced genearosity. 

What struck me as I recalled those moments was that this blog was a useful point of reference. Here are links from my blog to some of the events I may mention today.

Cousins Baited  https://geniaus.blogspot.com/2018/10/cousins-baited.html

Giggle and Scrape  https://geniaus.blogspot.com/2016/12/giggle-and-scrape.html

Royal Treatment  https://geniaus.blogspot.com/2019/06/royal-treatment.html  

Surprises in Haddington  https://geniaus.blogspot.com/2023/08/visiting-ann.html

Visiting Ann https://geniaus.blogspot.com/2023/08/visiting-ann.html

I haven't been blogging much lately as I am trying to get both my biological and DNA trees in order. Today's exercise has awakened me to the value of my past posts as a Gifts for the Future. Perhaps I need to do a bit more blogging!

I will remind the attendees today that Genearosity is not just something for the Past and Present. By preserving resources, stories and trees we are performing Genearosity for the Future. 

My last slide for this afternoon

Colourful Efficiency

Back in May last year I blogged about using WikiTree as a means of futureproofing my research. At that stage I was pleased to report my 16 Great-Grandparents had profiles on Wikitree.

Since then, in a haphazard fashion, I have been going through my list of People in my RootsMagic database and then searching for them on Wikitree. If I can't find someone I create and add a Profile to Wikitree for them.  This has been inefficient as I often find myself looking for someone a second or third time. 

Once each Person has a Wikitree profile I place them in a "Wikitree Profile" Group in RootsMagic. The other day it dawned on me that I could create a filter that would allow me to quickly identify those individuals in my tree. I decided to use the RootsMagic Color Code Tool. 

WikiTree Tools - Color Codes

This nifty tool adds a small colour bar (lemon in this case) to the Name Label of each person in the Wikitree Profile Group. At a glance in the People View List in RootsMagic I can those cousins who do not have a Wikitree Profile.

The Yellow Bar on a Profile's name in RootsMagic indicates the presence of a Profile on Wikitree. 

After capturing this image I noted that a close relation did not have the Yellow Bar. Apologies to Greg Curry,  I will deal with that omission shortly.

I will also add this useful filter to the five other family trees I curate on RootsMagic.

My Response - 2025 Accentuate the Positive

We had a busy Christmas period followed by a relaxing cruise around Australia and New Zealand and, I must apologise, geneactivities moved down my list of priorities. No that I have time for reflection  I thought it appropriate to respond to my challenge. 

I actually found it difficult to dig for memories and positives. Pondering on my 2025 my level of appreciation for those genies who responded to my prompts grew and grew.

Following are my responses to the 2025 Accentuate the Positive prompts.

1.  I treasured the support of genies who responded to my 2024 Accentuate the Positive Geneameme. Responses to the Accentuate the Positive 2024 Geneameme. 

2.  I shared my direct ancestors' details on Wikitree. I am committed to Wikitree as a collaborative tree. I am working to ensure that my ancestors' and forebears' stories are not lost so I aim to give them all a profile on this platform. It's a future-proofing exercise

 My CCC7 score currently stands at 4129. My profile on WikiTree is here https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Curry-3069.  

3.  I travelled  to Brisbane for Connections2025 and had a wow of a time learning, presenting and socialising. As the NSW Ambassador for the event I revelled in its success. I will be visiting this next Congress in Wellington, New Zealand in 2027.

Bloggers at Connections2025 including several who have responded
 to the 2025Accentuate the Positive Challenge

4.  I learnt more and more about WikiTree as I progressed through the year. Help was always at hand as I struggled with the challenging interface. Thanks to Veronica Williams (Coat-12) ) for her guidance and support. Participating with the Super Aussie Genies Team in challenges helped me improve. 

5.  I changed my main software program to RootsMagic. I started using RootsMagic to manage the people in my CareyBay2283 One Place Study. Although I don't have a handle on its sourcing system I appreciate its fairly seamless syncing with Ancestry, FamilySearch and FindMyPast. As the year progressed I added more trees to RootsMagic11. 

I also find it good for managing the DNA matches of some of the kits I manage. 

6.  I received several invitations to speak at family history events in person and via zoom. 

8.  I found many products and resources to test drive through my activities on social media channels. Thanks to all the Genies who use Facebook, Blogs and other Social Media to share their stories, thoughts and tips. A Big Bonus is that, after 19 years on Facebook and 20 years on Blogger, several of my contacts have become very good friends. 

After ditching Twitter I found a welcoming genealogy community on Bluesky. I can be found there at @geniaus.bsky.social.

9.  I taught in formal and informal situations in online and in face-to-face settings.

As an amateur I do not seek out speaking opportunities but, if I am in the country, I will usually respond positively to invitations. I especially love meeting and chatting with genies in local societies. As an old girl these invitations give me positive reinforcement. Pleased to report that I already have half a dozen gigs lined up for 2026. Once a teacher - always a teacher!

10. I cried when I heard of the death of my first cousin Ronda. Although we didn't see much of each other in recent years I have fond memories of  spending many happy times tagging along with my big cousin. I was proud to be Godmother to her firstborn. 

As I was overseas I was unable to attend her funeral. I am grateful to those family members who attended on our behalf.

Jill and Ronda at her wedding. January 1960

11. I was proud of my efforts in researching, recording and publishing information in my One-Place Study. I am concentrating on the research while concurrently writing the odd post and recording Carey Bay Burials On FindaGrave and adding Carey Bay Profiles to WikiTree.

12. I read several books in a a range of genres. Goodreads tells me that I read 101 titles but I know there were a few more genealogy titles that were not in the Goodreads database.

As for books vaguely related to my family history activities here are a few that struck a chord (they are not necessarily masterpieces):

This is for everyone

The Season

Daughters of the Bamboo Grove

Unsettled

The Inheritance

Convict Orphans

One Life: My Mother's Story

The Quest for Annie Moore of Ellis Island

The Poisoned Life of Mrs.Maybrick

Going Under

Accentuate the Positive 2025 - Responses

Since I set this challenge in December I have been cruising around and exploring Australia and New Zealand. Now home I have just spent a couple of hours reading and responding to the posts of the Genie's listed below. 

I am humbled by the Genearosity and support of these bloggers who have joined this challenge. 

* If I have missed any posts please let me know and I will add them to this list.

* It's not too late to add your name to this list - just send me a link

Jill Ball  https://geniaus.blogspot.com/2026/01/my-response-2025-accentuate-positive.html

Pauleen Cass  https://cassmobfamilyhistory.com/2026/01/16/accentuate-the-positive-geneameme-2025/

Alex Daw  https://familytreefrog.blogspot.com/2025/12/accentuate-positive-2025-geneameme.html

Bobbie Edes  https://gsq-blog.gsq.org.au/accentuate-the-positives-in-2026/

Carmel Galvin  https://earlieryears.blogspot.com/2026/01/accentuate-positive-2025-geneameme.html

Shauna Hicks  https://www.shaunahicks.com.au/accentuate-the-positive-2025/

Jennifer Jones  https://trackingdownthefamily.substack.com/p/accentuate-the-positive-2025-geneameme

Jenny Mackay  https://jennymackay.substack.com/p/twelve-things-that-made-2024-worth

Karen Packard-Rhodes  https://karenaboutgenealogy.blogspot.com/2025/12/geniauss-accentuate-positive-for-2025.html

Lilian Magill  https://researchbylily.blogspot.com/2025/12/remember-to-accentuate-positive.html

Linda Stufflebean  https://emptybranchesonthefamilytree.com/2025/12/accentuate-the-positive-2025-geneameme/

Robyn https://robynandthegenies.blogspot.com/2025/12/accentuate-positive-2025.html

Anne Young  https://anneyoungau.wordpress.com/author/anneyoungau/