The Shamrock Genealogist

I am honored to be included again on the Extreme Genes podcast. I was interviewed about the  NextGen Genealogy Network and how I got involved. Welcome new readers! My interview with Extreme Genes

There have been two major announcements in the genealogy world over the last few weeks. First, FamilySearch will be ceasing microfilm distribution . Second, Ancestry has made the decision to not allow users to manage multiple DNA kits under their account . FamilySearch Discontinues Microfilm Distribution Microfilm is getting more expensive to create copies from FamilySearch' vast collection out of the Family History Library and Granite Mountain vaults. Users can rent the microfilm for $7.50 but the cost to FamilySearch is more prohibitive. Amy Johnson Crow blogged about this recently . My tips to get through the next 3 years while digitization efforts complete: 1. Request microfilm before the August 31st deadline for anything pressing 2. Talk to your local Family History Center on microfilm rented out to see if they will send back after the deadline or hold onto it indefinitely. 3. Contact other societies that have microfilm loan services. Some organizations may be able to...

Yesterday was Canada Day, the 150 birthday for our northern neighbor. In honor of the occasion, I'd like to celebrate some of my earliest paternal ancestors who came to Canada and eventually to the U.S. My 3rd great grandfather Francis Dougherty and 3rd great grandmother Catherine Clerkein/Clarkin/Clarke) (depending on which document you're reviewing) were born in County Monaghan, Ireland. They married on Valentine's Day (February 14th) 1828 in Tydavnet, County Monaghan. They had 4 sons while they lived in Ireland (Michael, Peter, Owen and Bernard). They immigrated to Prince Edward Island, Canada in 1839 and settled in Lot 58 as farmers. They then had 5 daughters (Margaret, Mary, Bridget, Catherine, and another Bridget). In 1888 Francis emigrated to Dickinson County, Kansas to join his son Peter  and his wife Margaret (Cairns) to homestead (you can read about my family homesteading here ). Their daughter Margaret also left for Dickinson County, KS ahead of her parents aft...