WSGS Local Speakers' Directory

If your society is seeking a speaker of national prominence for a seminar or conference, please refer to our National Speakers page which provides links to web pages that list national speakers. These links should provide an excellent speaker on any genealogical topic.

We want to encourage speakers from throughout the state to add their names to our database. For your convenience, you can use this Local Speakers' Sign-Up Form. You may submit this form electronically, email it to info@wasgs.org or print and mail it to WSGS Local Speakers Directory, 1901 S. 12th Ave., Union Gap, WA 98903.

 

 

More about the speakers and their presentations:

 

Breland, Claudia - www.ccbreland.com; https://www.facebook.com/claudia.breland

Claudia Breland has been a professional genealogist since 2009. She is the author of six books and been a lecturer for over 12 years. Her presentations include "Decoding Your DNA"; "Beyond Ancestry"; "Beyond the Internet"; and "Using Historical Newspapers." Descriptions of these presentation are on her website. Her virtual presentations are tailored to genealogical societies, historical socities and museums.

 

Burchell, Kenneth W., Ph.D - paineite@gmail.com; kennethburchell.substack.com

Kenneth is a writer and internationally recognized specialist on Thomas Paine and the history of American democratic reform. Presentations include discussion of the techniques of historical and genealogical research. Thomas Paine presentations are available as general, biographically based presentations, specialized [ex. The Adventure of Thomas Paine's Bones, etc]. Regional presentations center on the 1855 Inland Northwest Indian Wars, Smohalla, Kamiakin, Isaac Stevens, and the 1855 Walla Walla Treaty. A Freemason and freemasonic historian, Ken offers a range of freemasonic subjects. Inquiries welcome. Travel expenses additional and handouts are included.

 

Camarata, Janet O'Conor - camarata2@gmail.com

Janet is a genealogist with over 30 years experience. She is a seminar presenter, educator, and trainer in genealogy societies, libraries, retirement centers and senior centers across Washington. She has supported genealogy by volunteering in a variety of ways and is past-president of South King County Genealogical Society (SKCGS). She is the winner of the Washington State Genealogical Society Volunteer of the Year award for 2019. Janet is a graduate of the University of Washington Genealogy and Family History program. Her presentations include assorted topics, i.e. research planning, maps, timelines, immigration/and naturalization, land systems, Scot-Irish, and Italian research. 

 

Lowe, Roxanne - roxannelowe260@gmail.com

Roxanne is the proud great granddaughter of Washington Pioneers Daniel and Mary (Donovan) Murphy who came to Chehalis County (now Grays Harbor) in 1888. She is the past president of the Grays Harbor Genealogical Society and webmaster of the Washington State Genealogical Society's website. She was the 2024 recipient of the WSGS President's Award for Outstanding Achievement. Her presentations include "Writing Your Own Obituary," "Pioneer Pursuit" and "Free Internet Sites." She is developing a program related to "Tombstone Symbology." She is a fervent supporter of local genealogical societies and will present to them free of charge.

 

Majewski, Virginia "Ginny" - seekingcousins06@gmail.com

Ginny has a Certificate of Advanced Genealogical Studies in American Records from the National Institute for Genealogical Studies in Ontario, Canada. 25+ years of experience doing genealogical research and over 10 years of providing educational presentations. Her area of expertise is in Anabaptist records (Amish, Mennonite, Brethren, etc), religious records and Civil War research. She is the great-great granddaughter of a WA State Pioneer, past President of Clallam Co. Genealogical Society and WA State Genealogical Society. Her virtual and in-person presentations include: "What Is Your Name?" --  how understanding names, naming patterns and social customs can help your research; "Census Records and the Clues They Hold" -- a deep dive into the census; "Civil War Reseach" -- how to find your ancestor and what records are available; "Citing Sources" -- it's not as hard as your think; "Was Grandma Born in the Cabbage Patch?" -- looking for vital records in alternative places; "The Horsemen Never Ride Alone" -- a look at how war, disease and disaster affected our ancestors and where to look for documentation; "Diasporas" -- a romantic sounding name, an unromantic subject; dispersion; "Knew Before You Go" -- preparing for genealogical travel;  "Religious Records" -- a look at different religions in the USA and what records each has; and "Researching Anabaptist Ancestors" -- searching for Amish, Mennonite, Brethren, etc. Ginny's fee is negotiable dependent on the request, plus travel expenses if more than 25 miles from her home. Handouts will be provided to host for copies to be made.

 

Morrison, Steven W.  - foxhallguy@comcast.net; www.stevenwmorrison.com

 

Having worked with genealogical teaching, researching and writing for over 30 years, Donna is qualified to speak on a long list of topics including a current list of Internet-research topics. Her presentations are appropriate for genealogical societies, historical societies and museums and the general public. She is able to present to large and small groups -- meeting programs and seminars. She is willing to travel in Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Her speaker's fee is negotiable and travel expenses are appreciated. Her favorite emphasis is on motivation…… family history is doable and is fun!

 

Roddy, Mary Kircher - mroddyn3@msn.com; mkrgenealogy.com/

Mary is a Certified Genealogist; editor of National Genealogical Society Quarterly and co-founder of Applied Genealogy Institute. Her lecture and hands-on presentations are listed here. She is willing to present virtually and also to travel for in-person presentations. Her presentations are tailored to genealogical societies, historical societies and museums, general public, seminars, workshops and conferences.

 

Laura is past president of WSGS and has spoken at many locations. She will speak on any genealogically related topic with advanced notice. Fees are negotiable. Handouts are an extra expense.