DNA is a powerful tool and, when paired with archival records, it can help answer many research questions about family history. On Saturday, August 16, Donna Backus, a genealogist with decades of experience, will cover the basics of DNA and how to use ancestry.com and other tools to learn more about your heritage.

Although there are no prerequisites for this workshop, it is recommended that prior to attending you have had your DNA analyzed, have an online family tree that dates back at least to second great-grandparents, and have linked your DNA results to yourself on your online tree. 

Donna Backus is a family genealogist and historian who has been conducting research for over fifty years. She has presented for genealogy groups throughout Lancaster County and spends her spare time keeping up to date on the latest technology associated with genealogy and family research. 

“Getting Started With DNA” will take place on Saturday, August 16 from 10-11:30am at LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster. Tickets are $20 for LancasterHistory Members and $25 for Non-Members. Advance registration is encouraged as the class has limited capacity. To register, please click here to register online or call (717) 392-4633 to register over the phone.

Want to learn more about your family history but not sure where to begin? This class orients beginners to the process of researching family history online and in the LancasterHistory collections. Learn what kinds of records to look for, where to look for them, and how the Research Center at LancasterHistory can help on Saturday, November 8 for “Genealogy 101.” Attendees will also get a tour of the Research Center and an orientation to resources at LancasterHistory.

Aimee Caya has been the Director of Library and Research Services at LancasterHistory since 2022. She held previous positions at Lancaster County Library in South Carolina, the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Institute of Art.

“Genealogy 101” will take place on Saturday, November 8 from 10-11:30am at LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster. Tickets are $20 for LancasterHistory Members and $25 for Non-Members. Advance registration is encouraged as the class has limited capacity. To register, please click here to register online or call (717) 392-4633 to register over the phone.

No previous experience with genealogy is required to take this class, but it is helpful to have identified some relatives prior to start you on your journey. Please bring note-taking items with you to the class, such as a laptop or notebook.