Can I use the results of a mitochondrial DNA test in a lineage society application?

First of all, what's a mitochondria? For those of you who don't recall your high school biology class: a mitochondria is a structure within the cell. It's often referred to as a cell's "energy center." There's a really good explanation here. Mitochondria have their own DNA, so they can be tested separately. It was longContinue reading "Can I use the results of a mitochondrial DNA test in a lineage society application?"

Land records: an underused source in lineage research

Land records are often a "source of last resort" for genealogists. Rarely fully indexed, they require us locating and accessing a separate index book (called a grantor/grantee index); copying down the volumes and pages that apply to our ancestor; and then going into each volume to copy the appropriate pages. It's time consuming and oftenContinue reading "Land records: an underused source in lineage research"

Can I use mitochondrial DNA testing in a lineage society application?

First of all, what's mitochondrial DNA testing? Mitochondrial DNA testing (mtDNA testing) compares the mitochondrial DNA of a tester with that of anyone taking the same test. As with other tests, the tests compare only certain regions of the DNA in order to estimate an approximate relationship. As of right now, only FamilyTree DNA offersContinue reading "Can I use mitochondrial DNA testing in a lineage society application?"

The HMS Jersey and the other Revolutionary War prison ships

Relevant laws and policies: 1776: The Hulks Act allowed the use of decommissioned ships as prisons. March 1777: "North's Act" suspended habeas corpus and allowed Americans to be prosecuted for treason/piracy. 1778: A policy set out the requirement that prisoners taken from a privateer were immediately to be jailed. 1779: Continental Congress moves to holdContinue reading "The HMS Jersey and the other Revolutionary War prison ships"

What’s a “Silver Book”?

You're working on an application to the General Society of Mayflower Descendants ("Mayflower Society"). Someone asks if you've checked the "Silver Books" yet. What do they mean? The "Silver Books" is a term used to describe a series of publications called "Mayflower Families through Five Generations." Each publication - which has a silver cover -Continue reading "What’s a “Silver Book”?"