(VIA ZOOM) - Link will be emailed to AAHGS H-Town Chapter Members

Description: This presentation demonstrates the value of using FamilySearch as a resource to help African Americans discover their lineage and answer questions of identity. Attendees will learn to effectively use the historical records collection, the browse-only collections, the FamilySearch catalog for books and microfilms, and the digital “Books” collections. Effective search techniques are taught including searching census records by race. African American collections, some unique to FamilySearch, including the Freedmen’s Bureau Records, will be highlighted. Links to additional webinars and research Wiki articles found in the FamilySearch Learning Center and on the internet are included in a handout to assist attendees in continuing their education and research beyond what is taught in this presentation.

Bio: Thom Reed is a deputy chief genealogical officer for FamilySearch International. His area of emphasis is African American records, research, and experiences. He also manages relationships with community, genealogical and historical organizations for people of African descent around the world. In 2019, he served on the national Board of the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society (AAHGS) as the Vice President for Genealogy. Reed received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Illinois State University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Brigham Young University. He and his wife, Lisa, are the parents of 5 children and reside in South Jordan, Utah.