I had long harbored a suspicion that my family had an ancestor who fought in America’s War of Independence, but I did not know how to launch my search. Fortunately, I chanced upon a Beginning Genealogy Workshop taught by Public Services Librarian Greg Romer, who has extensive experience in this domain.

Greg’s friendly “you can do this, too” manner was just the ticket. He demonstrated some of the valuable online tools and data bases available at the library, and he offered many helpful suggestions on how to get started. I came out of the workshop feeling both encouraged and empowered.

I’ve since learned that I was not alone. Katie Holliday, a library customer and donor, wrote a cordial letter to Greg that praised his efforts. “It was so informative, well-presented and fun!” she observed. “All the personal examples you shared just increased the quality, and we learned extra mini-history lesson facts. I am eager to get started…thanks to your enthusiasm. I did not realize the resources available to the public. Thanks to the library as well as to you.”

My own excursion also had a happy ending. Thanks to technical assistance from Greg Romer and Larry Henderson, a volunteer from the Topeka Genealogy Society, I was able to research my way around several roadblocks to confirm that my ancestor, John Blackford, had indeed served as a private in the New Jersey militia during the War of Independence. During my quest, I also benefitted greatly from the advice and encouragement of Freeman Vicory and Dr. Phil Baker, both active members of the Thomas Jefferson Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution who also happen to be highly experienced genealogical researchers.

In 2007, a generous gift from Dr. Phil and Betty Baker created a revitalized Genealogy Center at the library named in their honor. Their gesture illustrates how many of the library’s most popular collections, programs, and services are significantly strengthened by private contributions.

The next Beginning Genealogy Workshop will be held on Saturday, September 12th from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Registration is required. Please call 580-4540.

For more information on the resources available in the Dr. Phil and Betty Baker Genealogy Center, please see: http://www.tscpl.org/topeka/section/baker genealogy center.