Genealogical Society of Queensland, Inc.  

English/Irish Group Meeting – 1st April 2007

The English/Irish Group held its second meeting for the year on 1st April 2007. The format for the meetings enables members to undertake private research until 12 noon with help provided as needed. A short meeting is then convened to discuss any new research tools which may be of interest to members and provide an opportunity for those present to seek/offer help on any problems encountered. A guest speaker addresses the group following a short break for lunch.

April’s speaker was Associate Professor Stephen Craig-Smith who entertained members with an interesting talk on his family history research. Steve has been interested in family history for many years and he outlined the difficulties he had to face researching ancestors by the name of Smith. He had followed up several stories that had been handed down the family as folklore and he explained to members the results of his research – some was true, some partly true and the rest was a good story! He brought some family treasures, including a christening gown and tankard, as well as photos, books and other documents that had helped him to trace his ancestors. He explained how useful trade directories had been in tracking family members who were in the building trade and the help he received from a professional researcher who was initially put off by someone wanting to find an ancestor called “John Smith”.

The next meeting is scheduled for 5 August . Information about the English/Irish Group is available from the Convenor, Pauline Williams, either by email or by leaving a message at GSQ.