Extreme Genes

Who deserves to have their history recorded more than our veterans? Fisher shares some great places for finding military records and often the stories that can be uncovered through them.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. Familly Histoire News begins with the story of a Swedish American girl who was playing in a lake in Sweden and made an astonishing discovery. Hear what everyone is so excited about. Then, it's a new application for DNA. Yes, your deceased loved one's molecular code can now be part of your tattoos! David explains. Next, a map created by the guy who is believed to have made the maps for Columbus has had technology put to use to reveal previously illegible text. Find out about the significance of this story. David then talks briefly about the link on ExtremeGenes.com to the story about 20 sets of twins separated at birth who choose either to seek or not to seek their missing sibling. David's Blogger Spotlight this week shines on Rahkia Nance. Her site, TheLAConfidential.wordpress.com covers her journey to uncover the stories of her family's past. Then, Gretchen Jorgensen, a DNA specialist with Legacy Tree Genealogists, shares some great tips for maximizing your DNA matches on Ancestry.com. There may well be a few tools there that you don't know about. But Gretchen does! Hear what she has to say. Next, Tara Bergeson, Program Chair for RootsTech, the world's largest family history conference, shares the latest for what to expect at RootsTech 2019 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Tara reveals many changes that will cut down on lines and get you into more of what you want to see and do. Also, a RootsTech London is coming up next year! Tara will fill you in. Then, it's Tom Perry from TMCPlace.com, the Preservation Authority, talking about SD cards. What are they and how to they help you? Tom's got all the skinny. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Adoptees in particular, but many others as well, are looking for answers. If your skilled in the DNA world, you might want to consider helping these folks as a "search angel."

Want to find rare family photos, family Bibles, and who knows what else? Fisher suggests that you try tracing forward!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David opens Family Histoire News with the story of a German roofer who discovered, on a rooftop, a message in a bottle. The message, it turned out, was written in 1930 and had twist that will make your jaw drop! Then the guys talk about a parade that took place in Philadelphia 100 years ago, in 1918, that resulted in the deaths of thousands of people. Listen to hear what happened and why. Next, the identity of a 19th century woman whose perfectly preserved remains were found during construction efforts at a former church yard have been identified. David will have more of her story. And finally, a 100 year old woman who has been dating her boyfriend, now 74, for 30 years is finally going to marry him! Find out exactly what changed! David's Blogger Spotlight this week shines on Canadian Lianne Kruger at ifamilyhistory.blogspot.com. Lianne writes some great suggestions for interviewing people, using Minecraft to create pedigree charts and writing your life history. Next, Fisher visits with McKell Keeney, continuing some of last week's conversation about "Search Angels." McKell, an Arizona woman, has been training others in how to help adoptees looking for their birth families, and she will point you in the right direction if you feel the desire to do the same. Then, Fisher talks with Rick Voight, co-founder of Vivid-Pix. Rick's been in the photo industry for decades and talks about better ways to preserve your photographs. Rick also is giving Extreme Genes listeners the opportunity to fix ten photographs using Vivid Pix's RESTORE software for free! (You won't be disappointed!) Here's where to go to try it: Vivid-Pix.com/ExtremeGenes. In the next segment, Fisher talks with Jerica and Joe, the sister/brother team, Team Black, on BYUtv's Relative Race. Hear their take on the first three episodes of Season 4! Preservation Authority Tom Perry from TMCPlace.com closes out the show talking about preserving and eventually restoring audio, video, and home movies that have been damaged in fire, mud, or flooding. In these times of perilous weather, you'll want to hear what he has to say. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Fisher explains the importance of planning your research trips to maximize your results.

Fisher talks about investigating your family stories before you pass them along.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David starts out sharing details of his experience taking a cruise on America's oldest active naval ship, the USS Constitution. The guys begin Family Histoire News with a note that this past week marked the 100th anniversary of the start of the Meuse Argonne Offensive in World War I. The action led to the end of the war, but cost tens of thousands of lives on both sides. Next, a woman who was abandoned near Rochester, NY in 1978, known as "Baby Lilac," is looking for her birth family. Hear some of the details. Then, DNA has come through again in identifying the previously unknown remains of a World War II soldier killed on a Pacific Island in World War II in 1943 at the age of 21. David's Blogger Spotlight then shines on Jen Rickards of Union, Missouri. Her site, AuntieJensTrees.blogspot.com, features great blogs on memories of 9/11, cemetery epitaphs and many other topics. Next, Fisher visits with Colin Colbourne of the "Bent Prop Project." It's an organization that has been searching for several years for remains of America's war heroes, mostly from World War II. They have brought home several of the tens of thousands of remains still missing from the war, and the participants often do so paying expenses out of their own pocket. Then, Tempe, Arizona resident Alyson Gunner Johnson talks with Fisher about how her DNA test led her to her birth mother, which eventually caused her to become a "search angel," helping other adoptees to find members of their birth families. Alyson explains how you might do the same. Fisher then catches up with "Team Green" from BYUtv's Relative Race. The married couple talks about their first two weeks on the show, and the emotional experiences of finding family members they've never known. Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com, then goes through some basics for those who may have water damaged documents and photographs as a result of Hurricane Florence. Tom will tell you how these and other family keepsakes may still be salvaged! That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show.

Fisher explains why virtually all researchers need help from other experts along the way.

Fisher shares the math of genealogical research and the importance of focusing in on your goals.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society. The guys share an email sent by a listener who was excited to learn something new about two Scottish ancestors because of a recent guest's exhaustive study. David then begins "Family Histoire News" with the amazing story of a man who located his birth mother. She then reached out to the birth father, her former high school boy friend. The old spark relit. And you won't believe who legally married them! Then, David talks about the recent find of a stone jar in Italy, under the remains of an old theater. What was in it will astound you! Next, David talks about the relationship between families' stuff and the families themselves. Don't let your treasures get thrown away by the next generation. David's blogger spotlight this week shines on Emmy Jolly from the UK, who, by the way, is happy to take photographs of where your ancestors were from. Go to EmmaJolly.co.uk/blog. In Segment 2, Fisher visits with Professor Robert Thorson of the University of Connecticut. Dr. Thorson is an expert on the history of and in those old New England stone walls. Why are they there deep in the woods? How old are they? Who put them there? Professor "Thor" will explain the mysteries of those iconic stone walls of New England. Then, Fisher catches up with Photo Detective Maureen Taylor who recently scored some amazing 19th century photographs at what is billed as the World's Largest Antique Show that happens a few times a year in a small town in Massachusetts. Hear what she says may be waiting for you in your area antique stores or show. Next, Fisher visits with Team Red from Relative Race on BYUtv. With week one in the rear view mirrow, Austen and Mike share their feelings about their first meeting with a family member. And, as always, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority talks with Fisher about places to leave your precious family or historic items in the event there was no one in the family willing to treasure them. Which would you prefer? Archive or dumpster?! Fisher and Tom have some ideas. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show.

Fisher suggests that when friends ask what they need to do to get started in family history research that you don't suggest signing up for an on line service… and that you share the first fundamental rule.

Believe it or not, Fisher HATED history as a kid. How he came to love it can work for your child or grandchild, too.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys begin by discussing an email from a listener who has discovered through DNA that she has a new cousin… one who was fathered by her uncle with his former girlfriend. The cousin thinks the results are a mistake. Then the story takes a real twist! Hear what it is. Then, in Family Histoire News, David talks about a recent gathering of descendants of United States Presidents, including one who is a GRANDSON of a president who was born in 1790! Hear which president he comes through. David's Blogger Spotlight this week shines on the University of Portsmouth in the UK. It's a website that can be reached at RailwayAccidents.port.ac.uk and they're documenting all the railway accidents and the railway deaths of the 20th century there! David then talks about his upcoming appearance at Family History Fanatics. He'll be their guest on September 22nd 2018. Find out more at Humblegen.org. Next, Relative Race returns to BYUtv for Season 4 on Sunday September 16th at 9pm ET, 6pm PT. Fisher visits with Relative Race host Dan Debenham about what we can expect this season from this geni favorite reality show. DNA specialist Diahan Southard then joins Fisher to talk about ethnicity tests. People are often confused by their results and Diahan explains why they might not come out the way you think they would. She also reveals a recent update in ethnicity numbers with one of the major companies. Hear who it is and what to look for! Then, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com, reveals some of his favorite apps as he prepares you for the best way to complete your holiday family history projects. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Fisher shares a simple strategy for growing your ancestral photo archive.

Continuing his conversation on family photo archives, Fisher gives a quick overview on what you have to do to keep them safe.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. Fisher shares two stories from his recent trip to Indiana, including a unique experience while giving his keynote address at the Federation of Genealogical Societies conference in Fort Wayne. The other story illustrates the unexpected danger of exploring cemeteries in Michigan! Listen to what happened! David then opens Family Histoire News with the awful news of a fire that has destroyed the National Museum in Brazil. The loss is unimaginable. Then Fisher and David talk about a man in England who had a dilemma. His beloved mother-in-law had passed, and the funeral home where she was to have her viewing had gone out of business. Wait til you hear what he did! Then, David shares the heartwarming story of a 99-year-old man who walks six miles a day to visit his ailing wife of 55 years! David then shines his Blogger Spotlight on Jo Henn at jahcmft.blogspot.com. Jo blogs her family stories hoping to use them as "cousin bait" to learn more about her ancestors. Next, Fisher visits with Ron Tanner of FamilySearch.org. Ron and Fisher discuss the many changes coming to the iconic website, and particularly "The Tree," which will soon include same sex couples. It's a great update on one of genealogy's great resources. Then, Fisher talks with Brian Irwin of Legacy Tree Genealogists about descendancy research. To hear Fisher tell it, it's one of the most important strategies you could ever pursue, especially when trying to break down brick walls. Finally, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com, talks about a unique digitization problem he recently came upon, possibly from the 1920s, and how he has been able to resolve it. In part two, Tom goes into the importance of getting those oral histories recorded now if you're planning to include them in video presentations intended to be done for the holidays. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

OK, you're the one in your family with all the family pictures. Now what? The first thing you have to do has nothing to do with technology.

Fisher's Top Tips #001 - What Stories Will You Miss Out On?

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with Brooke Ganz, Founder and President of "Reclaim the Records," who fills in for David Allen Lambert this week. Family Histoire News begins with the story of a baby who was abandoned in a phone booth in 1954. He's all grown up now and recently took a DNA test. You'll want to hear where it led him. Then, Brooke talks about the amazing "lost city" found beneath the fields of Kansas. It may have been one of the largest cities in ancient America. Catch some of the details. Then, an Italian woman is making up for a lot of lost time at a reunion of descendants of Leo Tolstoy in Russia! Find out about her connection and what she is learning about her family. Brooke then talks about an important new record set that may help you in your research that has been made available to the public for free through the efforts of Reclaim the Records. Next, Fisher talks with Barbara Clements of Lombard, Illinois. Barbara had a longstanding family legend about her Native American ancestry. She recently learned how that story came down through the family and the "why" will amaze you! Then, Dr. Andrew Millard, a Durham University professor visits with Fisher about the mass grave found on their campus in England in a few years ago and the remarkable research journey it took him on, along with several colleagues. It involves the English Civil War, captive Scottish soldiers, and many that came to New England… perhaps one of your ancestors. Finally, Tom Perry is gearing up for the holidays. Yes, it's that time again! He will share with you deadlines you will need to be concerned about if you are planning on sharing digitized family history material with your family in December. These are dates typical of digitizers like Tom across the country. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David begins with what has to be called "Thanksgiving Leftovers." It's a page on the NEHGS site that gives bios on each of the passengers of the Mayflower, and gives descendants a chance to share a photo of themselves along with which passenger they descend from. Next, the guys talk about one renowned descendant of the Mayflower, former President George H. W. Bush, who comes down from John Howland and Elizabeth Tilley (as does Fisher). President Bush recently became the oldest surviving president, at 93 years and 166 days, surpassing Gerald R. Ford. Then, there's word that Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) wants the government to look into what the DNA companies may or may not be doing with your data. Also, a recent article brings up the question about whether or not your DNA sample might draw you into a criminal case, just by being related to a perpetrator. David's blogger spotlight this week is shining on Jennifer "Peace" Willis of plowandanchorgenealogy.wordpress.com. There, Jennifer frequently posts on her Irish research. See what she has to say! Next, Fisher catches up with a guy he first came to know in the early 1980s… 49ers and NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young. In the first of this two parter, Fisher and Steve talk about Steve's renowned ancestor, Brigham Young. Fisher also fills in Steve on the names of numerous historical figures Steve is related to. (Plus a certain genealogical broadcaster!) In the second segment, Steve talks about the unusual motivation he had to write his autobiography. He had a very specific audience in mind, and it didn't include the public. Learn what motivated Steve to make it available to everyone, and see what you can learn about the best reasons for writing your story. Then, Tom Perry from TMCPlace.com, The Preservation Authority, answers more listener questions.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys open the show with "Family Histoire News." First up: great news that the University of North Carolina has begun a project to digitize thousands of slave deeds and bills of sale. It will be a boon to slave researchers. Then, an Irishman who fought for the United States in World War I and was killed in France will finally get a tombstone in Chicago. Hear the details behind this man's amazing journey. A family in Wisconsin was shocked to learn that their kinsman, who was killed in a plane crash in World War II on the grounds of "Downton Abbey," Highclere Castle, will soon be honored at the site in England. And finally, a remarkable ancient building has been uncovered in Cologne, Germany. Wait til you hear what was once housed there! David then recognizes blogger Lara Diamond. Lara's site, LarasGenealogy.blogspot.com, which she calls Lara's Jewnealogy, features Lara's insight into her Jewish background. Next, Fisher visits with perhaps the only genetic counselor who specializes in people who get unexpected results in their DNA testing. As the first in her field, Brianne Kirkpatrick shares some of her insight into the challenges many people face when they learn something from DNA they had never imagined. Then, Melissa Barker, The Archive Lady from Houston County, Tennessee is back to share some of her latest stories of acquisition, and a remarkable event from a century ago that drew her into a fascinating research project. Learn from Melissa what family items your local archives may hold. Finally, Fisher visits with Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com. Believe it or not, when it comes to the holidays time is almost up! There are deadlines you're going to need to hit to be certain your family home movies and videos can be digitized on time. Tom will get specific with you. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David begins with the tale of a harbor master from Maine whose recent DNA results have led him to close family back in Ireland. Hear what he learned about his own story. Then, it was quite a shock for entertainer Marvin Humes on Britain's "Who Do You Think You Are!" Humes has learned that his black ancestor was a slave holder. Hear more about Marvin's reaction to the discovery. Dr. Henry Louis Gates has given an interview to Forbes, where he reveals how his passion for family history began. David talks about his long standing friendship with Dr. Gates. Then, the guys talk about the 5,000 year old remains that have been found at Stonehenge. Whose were they and what was their role in the creation of the iconic site? David has some answers. And finally, David talks about his recent post about "your genealogical clock." What is it and what does it mean? David will explain. David's Blogger Spotlight shines this week on James Tanner at genealogiesStar.blogspot.com. James shares some great insight into the Spanish flu epidemic of 1918 that claimed millions of lives. Next, Fisher visits with iconic researcher Gary Boyd Roberts. His new two-part book, "The Royal Descents of 900 Immigrants" may very well provide you with proven links back to kings and queens, and centuries of history. Gary's efforts also cover some Canadian "gateway ancestors" and ties to numerous people of note. Little did Fisher know that when he found his pirate ancestor, William Downs, of Bristol, Rhode Island, that it would spur a man researching the discovery of a 17th century coin to contact him with new information relevant to his ancestor's life. James Bailey talks to Fisher about how his English pirate likely wound up in Rhode Island. The recently found evidence is remarkable. Then, Tom Perry is horrified! The Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com says a key scanner is being discontinued. The good news is you may be able to get one cheap if you don't wait. Hear the details. Fisher and Tom then talk about options for fixing old photos digitally. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David talks about his recent lecture that gave him the opportunity to shoot World War II era guns with World War II vets. Family Histoire News begins with a summary of Olivia Coleman's recent experience on "Who Do You Think You Are?" in England. Hear what ethnicity makes her now feel a little less "ordinary." Then, it's the story of a food truck. But not like the one that visits your office on Wednesdays. This one collects family recipes and gives people the opportunity to cook them up! A woman whose DNA results devastated her with news that her father wasn't her father has started an on line organization for people in her situation. And it turns out that there are a lot more than she imagined. David then talks about a tale from the Titanic that has not received a lot of attention. You'll know more about it soon. David then shines his "blogger spotlight" on Kenneth R. Marks. Ken blogs about helpful techniques to make your journey less "bumpy." Visit his blog at TheAncestorHunt.com/blog. Next, in two segments, Fisher visits with Dr. David Sloane, an English professor at the University of New Haven in Connecticut. Dr. Sloane is a great grandson of Thomas Edison. He talks about how that relationship has influenced his life, the challenge of living up to the legacy, and challenges to the Edison legacy. In segment two, Dr. Sloane shares some family stories and memories of his mother and great grandmother, Edison's wife. Then, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com, talks with Fisher about attics in the summertime. If you ever imaged there were monsters in the attic, you were right! Especially when it comes to your family photos, home movies, and videos, and the heat and critters of summer. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys open the show with a story about the longest ongoing family reunion in the world. It started in the 1850s and has gone on every year since. Hear the wheres and whos. David then tells the story about the recent discovery of the remains of the Governor of Virginia at Jamestown who died in 1627. At least, that's who they THINK he is! Then it is great news concerning a huge collection of tapes recorded in the 1960s. It was a Navajo oral history project and it is now going to be digitized for all to hear! Next, David shares the story of an African-American geni who learned of her ties to a European who died trying to free his slaves long before the Emancipation. Finally, a Russian ship has been found that was sunk during the Russian-Japanese War around 1905. It may have BILLIONS in gold on it. Maybe. David then starts getting us ready for RootsTech 2019, pointing us to their great blog site, FamilySearch.org/blog. Next, Paul Woodbury, the DNA specialist from Legacy Tree Genealogists, talks about how he handles the challenges of handling his DNA matches, various kit numbers and passwords, etc., so he can more quickly make the most of his test results. There are ideas here you're going to want to take advantage of. Finally, it's Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com. Tom explains the benefits of using PDF files to more easily share photos and documents, and how easy they are to create. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, the Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. Fisher opens the show talking about another family history related 19th century eBay find and the amazing place it came from. David then shares a story about an article that mourns the loss of old, hand me down recipes in Hurricane Harvey. There's a new "oldest man in the world!" David will tell you who is he, where he lives, and just how old this man is! Then, in India a woman has broken new legal ground by being granted a divorce for the most (at least here!) unusual reason. Hear what it is. A 2,500 year old Iron Age fort is being refurbished and you can eventually visit it. Find out all about from David. Then, Fisher begins his two part visit with a 91-year-old man who is part of history. Lt. Col. Enoch Woodhouse is a vet of World War II and a former Tuskegee Airman. Col. Woodhouse shares some of his stories from the beginning of his lengthy military career. He describes life as a black soldier, his time with the Airmen, and his later years as a JAG attorney for the Air Force. Col. Woodhouse also talks about his family history and its impact on his life. Then, Tom Perry calls in from Utah on his Preservation Tour. Tom answers another listener question about the best kind of thumb drives, as well as protecting your photos in a disaster such as Hurricane Harvey or Irma, and how to potentially rescue photos that get wet. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with the Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org, David Allen Lambert. The guys begin with a story from the Ukraine, where an 87-year-old man is being recognized as having, perhaps, the largest number of descendants for a living person in the world! Wait til you hear the figure! Then, a family in China is concerned. They've been in the taxidermy business for five generations, and they're looking for who will take them into the sixth generation. David then shares the tale of Roland Gaines, a 97-year-old World War II veteran whose lost dog tags have been found. In Italy! Hear how the finders got them back to Roland. Next, it's word that an 18th century "Irish Giant" (over seven feet tall!) may soon be taken off display and properly laid to rest. David's Blogger Spotlight this week shines on Donna M. Moughty, host of Donna's Irish Genealogy resources. As things continually improve for Irish research, Donna can point you in the right direction. Read her blog at moughty.com/blog. Next Fisher visits with a man who has gained worldwide fame as "The Good Cemeterian." Andrew Lumish has developed a passion for cleaning up tombstones in the Tampa area, especially military figures, and especially from the Civil War. Hear Andrew's story and how you can learn to do what he does. Then, Tom Perry, our Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com gives some important advice about microphones. You'll need to know this if you are planning on interviewing your relatives at the next reunion. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys begin Family Histoire News with the story of a remarkable new find… a type of xray that can reveal the image beneath the damage on a daguerreotype photo. (See ExtremeGenes.com.) Then, the guys tell the story of a DNA match that led a 79-year-old adoptee to her 100-year-old mother! Next, David tells about an 8,000-year-old iron age village that has been found, including dozens of intact homes. Get the details. And lastly, footage of a walking FDR has been found. Hear how it was obtained and who shot the footage which dates back to 1935! David's Blogger Spotlight this week shines on Amanda Knapper's sillymummyfamilytree.blogspot.com. Amanda's British ancestry is a constant source of blogging goodness! Fisher then visits with two Wisconsin women who have come to call themselves "The Driveway Sisters." One moved in just last year and shares a driveway with the other. What they didn't know is that they are sisters! Hear the odd way they learned the truth about their close relationship. And it didn't involve DNA! Next up, Fisher visits with Bob Call from Legacy Tree Genealogists. Bob shares some great tips about using land records for connecting ancestors. For pre-1850, it's essential! Finally, Fisher visits with Tom Perry about those ridiculous 1970s-era photo albums. They called them "magnetic," but they were nothing short of sticky and destructive. Hear what you can do to save your four-decade-old material from these nightmare photo albums. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David shares news of the identification of a casualty of Pearl Harbor whose remains have finally been returned home. Next, the guys talk about the 125th anniversary of Ellis Island and tell you where to find a quick video history of the place that many our ancestors passed through in coming to America. Fisher then shares a fun and wonderful obituary written by the deceased herself… a great way to be remembered! Following up on last week's show, Fisher and David tell you about how to opt out of sites that share way too much of your personal information, including FamilyTreeNow.com, Spokeo, and Instant Checkmate. Next, Fisher visits with Zachariah Fike, founder of PurpleHeartsReunited.org, an organization that seeks out, buys, researches, and returns these medals of honor to the vets themselves, or their surviving families. Zachariah gives the background on the medal, and some amazing recovery and return stories. Then, Fisher visits with Oscar Hammerstein III (who goes by "Andy") whose grandfather was half of the team of Rodgers and Hammerstein, who redefined Broadway. Andy is quite the "genie" and is the go-to guy in his family when it comes to the Hammerstein family history. Andy will be a part of this year's RootsTech Family History Conference in Salt Lake City, presenting background on his grandfather's songs as they are sung by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. In Preservation Time, Tom Perry of TMCPlace.com talks with Fisher about the most common (and most easily cracked) passwords. Do you use any of them? Listen and find out. Tom then tells you what to expect in the tech world at this year's RootsTech. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. Fisher begins by sharing another family treasure find on eBay. He describes the item he will soon receive. David opens Family Histoire News with the story of two women in their 70s whose DNA tests revealed they were switched at birth! David then notes a story that the Chinese are now using DNA to learn their own Asian origins. Next, the guys talk about the thousands of miles of rock walls that are prevalent throughout New England. Why are they there, when were they placed there, and who put them there? Maybe some of your ancestors! The Golden State Killer case, cracked due to DNA shared on GEDMatch.com, has taken an interesting turn with two murder counts against the accused having been dropped. Hear why. David's bloggers spotlight this week highlights Dag T. Hoelseth of Norway. (dagtho.blogspot.com) Dag specializes in the history of Scandinavian royals. Next, Fisher visits with Maine resident Dan Dixey. Dan recently made news for being the recipient of a remarkable gold ring that was first discovered in a garden in Marblehead, Massachusetts in 1949. It dates back to 1737 and has ties to Dan's family. Hear how it all came about and what Dan's reaction was to receiving this remarkable gift. Blogger Amy Johnson Crow then talks with Fisher about her blog project her followers share with her… "52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks." Amy explains her "prompts" to stimulate ideas and shares some great stories from her followers that came from this fascinating exercise. Then, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com, talks about creating "slide shows." These are not your grandmother's slide shows, however. They can include slides, but also still photos, video, home movies, voice over, and so much more. Hear how easy these things are to create and how you can become a family film producer for your clan! That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David opens Family Histoire News talking about Massachusetts' recent efforts to restore colonial era mile markers, some of which date back to the early 18th century. Next, a 280-year-old "mourning ring," found in a New England garden in 1949 is now in the hands of a descendant. Hear this remarkable story. Then, hear how an adoptee, born in Japan, discovered his birth mother and then jaw dropping surprise that came with their reunion. Then it's quite a find in London… a stash of cash from World War II found under some floor boards. Find out who put it there and why. David then shines his blogger spotlight on Rahkia Nance and her blog: thelaconfidential.wordpress.com. It's called "Blogging my way through my family tree." Rahkia shares some remarkable stories about her slave ancestors. Next, Fisher begins his two part visit with Dr. Scott Woodward, a DNA pioneer. Dr. Woodward weighs in on the controversy surrounding the use of GEDMatch profiles in cold case crimes. Then he explains what we should be looking at when we consider renting or selling our DNA to research companies. He also talks about how advances in obtaining DNA have come so far, it takes just a small amount compared to when he first started. Wait til you hear how small! In connection with that, Dr. Woodward shares with us his thoughts on "turning back the clock" in DNA by creating profiles of your long deceased ancestors. There is now a way to do that! You'll want to hear what he has to say. Then, Preservation Authority Tom Perry talks about the risks to your ancestral treasures posed by summertime heat and weather. Maybe you're not ready to digitize and preserve everything right now, but there are ways to protect your family treasures until you are ready. And to hear Tom tell, you'd best get to it right now! That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Society. David notes the 74th anniversary of the D-Day invasion of France, the turning point of World War II. Leading off Family Histoire News, Fisher and David discuss the recently discovered hacking of MyHeritage.com and the impact it is likely to have on the industry. Then, scientists are interested in renting or buying your DNA! David will explain. Fisher then shares a new find concerning one of his wife's relatives from a digitized newspaper story from 1903. It will blow your mind. Next, one company is cashing in on the tattoo craze… and yes, it has to do with preserving family history. In a really odd way. David then shines his blogger spotlight on Renee Schmidt. Check out her blog here. Then David shares exciting news from NEHGS concerning a new database many genis will be anxious to visit. Then, Fisher chats with Joe Dooley, Past President General of the Sons of the American Revolution. The S.A.R. is currently in a partnership with Kings College in London, reviewing the personal papers of King George III and other high officials of the British government from the time of the Revolution. Joe reveals the goals of the project, and a story or two that has already come forth that had never been revealed before. Finally Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com talks reunion preparation. There's a lot more to it than you may think! That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. Fisher and David first talk about the impact, so far, of the new EU privacy law, best known as GDPR. At least a couple of important sites are no longer functioning as a result. Hear what they are. Next, an article is speculating that one of the major serial killer cases of the 1960s may be next up on the GEDMatch crime solving list. You will almost surely have heard of this case. David then talks about a recent discovery concerning people from southeast Asia and what DNA is saying about their migration pattern. A Purple Heart was stolen from the family of a deceased Korean War vet a few months ago. The story of the medal's recovery and return is amazing, and ends with quite the exclamation point! Hear what it is. David then talks about a recent discovery that may suggest how long people have been learning their ABCs. David's blogger spotlight this week shines on Jenny Hawran from like-herding-cats.com. (Honest!) There, she shares her adventures in genealogy. Then, Ken Nelson, a World War I specialist with FamilySearch.org talks with Fisher about special material now available on the free site as we recognize the centennial of America's entrance into the War To End All Wars, and the armistice that ended the conflict. If you had a family member in World War I, you'll appreciate what Ken has to tell you about these great family history assets. Fisher next visits with Rick Pettit, a passionate geni, who, along with his wife, Lori, has taken on a remarkable family project. It involves rare family surnames, lots of intermarriage, and German villages that no longer exist! Hear what they are doing and why. Then, Tom Perry talks about the risks of shipping in hot weather months, and what you can do to assure that one-of-a-kind family memorabilia gets to where it is going safely. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society. The guys begin with a brief look at how the new EU privacy law, "GDPR," is affecting the genealogy world. Next, most genealogists have found connections to royalty, which has increased interest in the recent royal wedding. As such, the guys delve into the sacrifices Meghan Markle is having to make to become a member of the Royal Family. (It suddenly doesn't sound so glamorous!) Then a shipwreck off the coast of Colombia is being called "The Holy Grail" of shipwrecks and may contain some $17 billion in treasure. Hear how it was found and how it got there. David then fills us in on the latest that he has learned about his distant cousin, Douglas Lambert, who died in World War II. David's blogger spotlight this week shines on Jana Iverson Last. Go to janasgenealogyand familyhistory.blogspot.com. Jana talks about the various cultures in her background and how they weave together. Next, Fisher visits with "Your Genetic Genealogist" CeCe Moore about how her DNA research recently led police to an arrest in a three-decade-old cold case. It's a first for CeCe who felt she had to consider the ethics and legality of such an action, and the feelings of the genealogy community. In the end, though, as she explains, it came down to one important factor. Hear what she had to say about it. In a second segment, Fisher and CeCe discuss the controversy surrounding the use of GEDMatch.com in the genealogy world. She addresses some of the concerns discussed with Paul Woodbury last week. It's a fascinating discussion you need to hear. Then, Tom Perry from TMCPlace.com answers another listener question on preserving old video from a MiniDV. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David first shares a fascinating find… he and a distant cousin share DNA from one of his more historic ancestors. Hear how he plans to take advantage of the find. Then, in Family Histoire News, the guys talk about how baseball Hall of Fame pitcher, Jim Palmer, recently discovered a lot about himself through a DNA test. Find out what he now knows. Next, it's an odd claim for anyone who knows anything about George Washington. A "descendant" is suing President Trump, and several past presidents for "past due" rent for their time in the White House. David and Fisher then salivate over an exciting cultural event coming to the east coast this summer. Find out what it is. David then directs us to another spotlighted blogger, Cynthia Shenette at heritagezen.blogspot.com. Fisher then visits with Paul Woodbury, DNA specialist from Legacy Tree Genealogists. Paul has some very strong opinions about what recently happened in the Golden State Killer case and what we should be concerned about using GEDMatch moving forward. It may be one of the most important Extreme Genes segments we air this year. Then, it's an explosion perhaps more powerful than a Hawaiian volcano… the recent creation of the Virtual Genealogical Society! It has attracted over 1,000 members in just the first couple of weeks. Katherine Willson of Ann Arbor, Michigan is the founder and has a lot to say about why this is an important step in drawing younger genealogists into the mix. Then, it's Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority, talking about the much talked about "demise" of the CD. (He has a totally different view.) In the final segment, Tom takes on what's possible in restoring old videos. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. In Family Histoire News, David talks about the remarkable interview with Cudjo Lewis from the 1930s that recently came to light on "History." Lewis was the last survivor of the last slave ship, the Clotilda. The guys then discuss the recent controversy surrounding the use of DNA sites to solve a cold case murder. In other crime news, a mother's obituary has led to the arrest of her "on the lamb" son. Hear what happened. David then describes his recent experience at the National Genealogical Society conference. He also updates us on recent item pickups he has made… and created… concerning his cousin who was killed in World War II. David then highlights the blog site of the Next Gen Genealogical Network at tnggn.org/blog. Then, Fisher visits with Christy Fillerup, a researcher with Legacy Tree Genealogists. Christy has some great tips on using 19th century "Parish Chest" records to learn more about poverty stricken ancestors. (We all have them.) Next, Jeanne Belmonte of NEHGS talks about her ancestor who was part of the workhouse system for the poor in the UK. From studying his situation, Jeanne learned about many records both overseas and in the United States that can help us better understand our poor ancestors' plights. Tom Perry from TMCPlace.com again shares his great incite with listeners considering how best to preserve their ancestral video and audio material. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David begins, talking about how he recently had the honor of putting together a genealogy for one of America's most famous historians, who, it turns out, is related to numerous early American famous writers. He'll tell you who it is. If you're Irish, you'll be interested to learn that you may be related to 14,000 living people! How can that be? The guys will explain. Then, the birth of a royal male child to Prince William is not going to change the line of succession to the throne for the baby's older sister. David explains the changes in English law that now make this possible. He also mentions that England's longest serving monarch, that baby's great grandmother also recently passed another landmark. Hear what it is. Finally, the guys wrap up "Family Histoire news with the story of a found German U Boat from World War II. This one holds special significance. David then shines his blogger spotlight on Alfred Woollacott III, the man behind myfourleggedstool.com. If you had British ancestry, you'll love reading Alfred's latest blog on specific castles. Fisher then visits with Barry Fleig, a Chicago native now living in Arizona. Barry took great exception to Chicago actually "losing" a cemetery. It was discovered when remains were being dug up during a construction project. Barry explains the history of the cemetery, what happened when the construction stopped, and tells of the records he has been able to assemble concerning the dead who were buried there. He also explains how and why we should be vigilant in our own communities when it comes to urban cemeteries. Fisher then visits with Mike Loffland, an Extreme Genes listeners and geni from Oklahoma. Mike shares another one of those "you've got to be kidding me" DNA stories you will not want to miss! Then, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority returns to answer your questions about preserving your precious materials. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys open the show talking about the discovery of a new type of DNA. What does it do? Will we be testing for it someday? The guys will fill you in. Then, it's a landmark for our friends at FamilySearch.org. Wait until you hear what it is. David then reveals the story behind his given name, and an incredible meeting with the man he was named for. Next, a teenager has uncovered a treasure hoard dating back to the days of King "Harold Bluetooth." (Yes, there was even a Bluetooth in the 10th century!) David then spotlights blogger Gina Philibert-Ortega at foodfamilyephemera.blogspot.com. There, Gina will share with you her family cook books. Fisher then visits with the Photo Detective, Maureen Taylor. The two recently had a fascinating discussion about an English man who recently purchased a $10 photo on eBay that is believed by many to be a previously unknown photo of outlaw Jesse James worth, perhaps, over $2 million! But Maureen says "Not so fast!" She'll explain the process of dating and identifying photos that may be of great use to you in your research. Sticking with the photo theme, Fisher's next guest is the head of a company that Tom Perry has referred all of us to many times… "Film Rescue." Film Rescue is in the business of developing film that often has been sitting in a camera for over 50 years! Hear some of Greg's stories and learn how you might rescue some of Grandpa and Grandma's old film from that camera you found in the basement. Then, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority returns to answer your questions about preserving your precious materials. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys begin with a follow up to David's big score… obtaining the World War II memorabilia of a Lambert cousin killed in World War II. David explains a find relating to this material he didn't even know he had. Then, David talks about a great article on Five Family History Scams To Avoid. (It's a good heads up!) Then hear the story of a man who discovered he really did have a horse thief back there. Who was hung. And an artist created an image of the hanging! David has the details. David also mentions an odd occurrence that recently took place at Cracker Barrel. (Yes, it includes what is on the walls and genealogy!) David's blogger spotlight this week shines on Amberly Beck at The GenealogyGirl.blog. Amberly shares ancestral photos along with the back story of each one. Next, Fisher visits with Jonny Perl of London via Skype about the craze he has pretty much single-handedly created with his site DNAPainter.com. DNA Painter is another amazing tool (it's free!) that anyone can use to "paint" a representation of their chromosomes with DNA known to be from a particular ancestor or ancestral couple. And it's ridiculously easy to do! Then, Fisher catches up with an old neighbor from his childhood. Growing up in Cos Cob, Connecticut, he was privileged to know America's first flying ace, World War I pilot Douglas Campbell. Lt. Campbell passed in 1990, but his widow, Ginny, is still with us. Ginny talks about the War To End All Wars, and her late husband's important contribution to the Allied victory. Tom Perry takes up the back end of the show answering listener questions about preservation of all things visual. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. Fisher begins with his personal story of another brick wall coming down thanks to a pair of family DNA kits. And this one goes back quite a ways! David then shares the story of a woman who took a DNA test and learned, in her 30s, that Dad was not her father! You'll be as shocked as she and her parents were to learn who he really was. (Yes, you CAN get REALLY unexpected results!) Then, David has suggestions for creating a tree tracking physical traits. It could be a fascinating new element to your family story. David next talks about a remarkable artist who is colorizing historic photos. The man's work changes everything about how you perceive the subject. Finally, a couple who was married in 1955 and divorced in 1968 is getting married again! Catch up with their story a half century later. David then spotlights blogger Elizabeth Handler on her blog FromMaineToKentucky.blogspot.com. Elizabeth is picking up on Amy Johnson Crow's idea of blogging about 52 ancestors in 52 weeks. Next, in two parts, Fisher visits with Rishi Sharma. Rishi is twenty-one years old and spends every day interviewing World War II combat veterans. All of those that are left are now in their 90s. Find out how Rishi started down this path as a high school boy and what spurred on his interest. He'll also share some of the compelling first hand stories he has learned. Then, Tom Perry from TMCPlace.com, the Preservation Authority, talks about the recent National Association of Broadcasters convention and new ideas demonstrated there that could make a major impact on your preservation efforts just a few years from now. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show.

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David begins by updating everyone on the World War II footlocker he just received that had once belonged to a Lambert third cousin, who died in the war. David then shares the news of a court ruling concerning Rhode Island Colonial records that were being offered for sale on eBay. Hear what the judge had to say about that. Then, a 93-year-old is finally getting his Bah Mitzvah, 80 years after he should have. Catch the amazing details. Next, a British family has beaten 20,000 to 1 odds with the birth of their latest child. Find out what makes this baby so unique. David then spotlights blogger Natalie Pithers, who shares some tips about breaking down brick walls on her site, genealogystories.co.uk. Next, Fisher visits with the O'Kelley cousins. They call themselves the Black O'Kelleys and the White O'Kelleys. Even though Nikki Williams Sebastian, Joyce Ann Huston, Brad Reneer, and his mother, Argie Shumway, don't carry the name anymore, they share a common ancestor… a slave holder from Mississippi. Despite being "distant" cousins, there is nothing distant about their relationship. The O'Kelleys explain how both side have researched this branch of the family for decades, and how DNA proved what they already knew… they are family! Then, Tom Perry talks about the importance of preserving what you have preserved. What does that mean? For example, if you have digitized old slides or photos, you have to be sure that the digitized version lasts forever more. The Preservation Authority will explain the process so you don't wind up, literally, with nothing! That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society. David shares the stories behind two recent historic and family historic "gets" he made. They cover two world wars, and each is remarkable in its own right. David then begins Family Histoire News with a remarkable story from England that began with the attempted murder of a baby, and ended with that baby, now in her 80s, learning the identity of her birth family from an old postage stamp! Wait until you hear this one! Then, Irish Viking descent is now being identified in DNA. If you have Irish descent, you'll find this recent discovery significant. David's blogger spotlight this week shines on Katherine Schober of sktranslations.com. She blogs about how to decipher old German writing in your genealogical pursuit. Next, it's time to talk DNA again with DNA specialist Paul Woodbury of Legacy Tree Genealogists. Paul has many tips for corresponding with people you match with through DNA. Since very few people respond to such attempts at contact, Paul's ideas will help you increase your response rate. Paul also shares his thoughts on identifying where certain matches tie in. There are ways! Then, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority from TMCPlace.com, answers a pair of great listener questions. The first has to do with the challenges of duplicating copyrighted materials… what you need to know as far as the law is concerned. Then, an old camera still has film in it. Where does a listener go to develop it? Tom has the answer. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. Fisher, who is struggling with a lung infection, is told by David that if the situation gets real bad, there is a place in the world that he should not go to. That's because it is illegal to die there! Hear where that place is and why the law exists. Next, a New York Times story explains how it was determined at what point in time, Americans stopped marrying their cousins. David shares some of the story and why it happens. Then, it's another halted project in Rome, Italy due to an incredible subterranean discovery. David then pivots to another story of the discovery of a World War II battleship, the second announced this month. Hear which one it was, who found it, and its significance. And final, DNA is being extracted from ancient human remains. Harvard is at it again. Could one or more of these people be your ancestor? (It's more possible than you think!) David's blogger spotlight then shines on DNA expert Blaine Bettinger. Blaine is a figure in the DNA field that everyone wants to hear from. See what he's got to say at thegeneticgenealogist.com. In the next two segments, Fisher mines some incredible World War I stories obtained by Christine Pittsley, a World War I Project Coordinator for the Connecticut State Library. Christine explains how the state went about obtaining this material from people's homes as we recognize the 100th anniversary of the end of the "War To End All Wars." Then, Tom Perry is back to answer more of your preservation questions. Hear what about one woman's recent find of old war photos, and her concerns for preserving them. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the episode with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David begins Family Histoire News with the story of an Australia woman and her discovery of a message in a bottle. But this one was highly unusual! Hear what it was. Then, the recent inclement weather in the northeast has yielded the remains of a Revolutionary War era boat. David has the details. Sticking with the water theme, a renowned battleship that was sunk in World War II has been located. Find out which one and who was behind the find. Then, it's a fascinating article on Doggerland. Ever hear of it? Your ancestors may very well have lived there! David then spotlights blogger Debbie Parker Wayne and her recent writing on DNA at Debsdelvings.blogspot.com. Next, Fisher and David share some of their remarkable experiences at RootsTech, the recent conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. As part of the discussion, Fisher shares his interview with Olympic skater Scott Hamilton, one of the keynote speakers. Hamilton was soon to learn the identity and history of his birth family. Emily Stanford Schultz, an employee of FamilySearch, perhaps had one of the most incredible experiences we have ever heard of right at RootsTech! It had to do with a special app that could really work best at a family history convention. Hear what it was and how it paid off for Emily in a big way. Then, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority, talks with Fisher about the special recording they did at the conference with some Extreme Genes listeners. It was on a wax cylinder using a Thomas Edison recording machine! Fisher will share with you what it sounded like. Tom explains some of the uniqueness of the machine and its impact in the 19th century, while Fisher reviews some of Edison's thoughts on what this machine was intended to help with in the 19th century. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys begin by discussing how DNA has tied the 300-year-old remains of a baby boy to his well known father. Then David shares news of a Spanish woman… age 62… who has given birth to a baby girl! You'll be amazed by her story. Next, they'll have the story of a pair of World War I soldiers whose bodies have only recently been recovered. They were thought to have been buried somewhere else. Hear the plans for their century-in-the-waiting homecoming. Fisher then shares with David the news that Levar Burton will be a key note speaker at this year's Roots Tech conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. David will of course have another genealogy tip for you, and another free guest member NEHGS database. Next, Fisher has discovered something odd about his great grandfather's 1874 divorce in New York, which "proved" his wife's adultery. It turns out that one of the men who testified to having been with his wife was present with the great grandfather when he died nineteen years later, even supplying information for his death certificate. How could they still be friends after what was confessed to in 1874? What was going on here? "The Legal Genealogist," Judy Russell drops in for two segments to explain why it's probably exactly what Fisher thinks… a divorce by fraudulent testimony. Judy then talks generally about divorce in the 19th century in various parts of the country, and what it took to get a divorce in those times. She also talks about the states and territories that were very much in the business of divorce and how they worked. Then Tom Perry from TMCPlace.com returns to talk preservation. He discusses a listener question about the best do-it-yourself way to approach digitizing over 100 voice cassette tapes. That's this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. David opens "Family Histoire News" with the story of a woman who discovered a relative's business card from over a century ago and the adventure it has led her on. Then, the guys talk about the recent discovery of a lock of George Washington's hair. Hear how it was found, and why it is believed to be authentic. Next, a baby has defied 48 million to 1 odds! Hear why this child's birth has created such a family history stir. David then chats about how researchers recently found the remains of a pirate on a ship wreck in Massachusetts, and how they're hoping DNA will reveal his identity. Finally, property in Arizona is on the market for $3 million. But, it contains a 19th century gold mine that may contain $60 million worth of the precious metal. Interested? In the next segment, Fisher visits with Kathleen Kaldis and her distant cousin David Stone. Both descend from Donald Campbell, a man who was born in the 18th century in Scotland, who became a noted fiddler in Nova Scotia. The story surrounding him through the generations is that he fell down a "fairy hole" and the fairies "blessed his bow." Hear the details and the song musician David has written and performed about their ancestor and his mystical adventure. Then, photo guru Ron Fox shares his thoughts on out-of-the-way places you might find photos of your ancestors and relatives. They're not always where you think they are! Then, Tom Perry again taps into his vast knowledge of all things preservation. Tom warns us about bad advice being given to people who's materials are damaged in floods and mudslides. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys talk about their first experiences with their genealogy "trading cards." Then, they kick around two February holidays, including their interactions with US presidents and the growing problem of flowers stolen from cemeteries for Valentines Day! Next, it's another self written obituary that has drawn the attention of the world. Hear what the recently deceased has written. He clearly won't soon be forgotten! And then, it's a DNA test for the ages… literally… as it is found that two mummies are related! In the next two segments, Fisher visits with Massachusetts resident Ellen Alden, who went in search of an early photo of herself for her daughter's school project. But while up in the attic, she discovered something she had never seen before… 19 Civil War era letters from her Irish immigrant ancestor. Hear some of what they said, and how the find has changed her life. Then, Preservation Authority Tom Perry from TMCPlace.com answers more listener questions. As always, you'll want to pay attention to Tom's vast knowledge. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys begin by talking about the participation of dead people in the recent Eagles Superbowl victory parade. Hear what that was all about! Then, "Cheddarman," an ancient Brit, has had a DNA test which reveals something previously unknown about the early English. The guys then discuss the 2020 Census questions that are now emerging. Some delve into Caucasian ethnicity. Plus adoptees in New Jersey can finally obtain their original birth certificates. Hear how that new law is changing lives. David then spotlights blogger Melissa Barker, our friend "The Archive Lady." Read her latest at agenealogistinthearchives.blogspot.com . Next, Fisher visits with LegacyTree.com's Carolyn Tolman. Carolyn shares a recent success story of an African-American client. She explains the breakthrough to pre-1870 days and some of the great new tools that are aiding African-American research. Then, Fisher talks with author Loren Rhoads. She discusses research into her book "199 Cemeteries To See Before You Die." What genie doesn't want to know about this?! Then, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority, takes on several great listener questions. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys begin with the story of a woman who recently visited her attic and discovered ancestral letters written home from the battlefields of the Civil War. Get the details. Then, a 425 year old letter has been discovered, and you won't believe where. David explains. Then, the guys talk about the Search Angels of Facebook who are there to help adoptees find their birth families. Plus, a fascinating contest is coming up for attendees at RootsTech. David has the 411. Then, Fisher visits with Robin Mason, a fan of witches everywhere, but particularly in her home state of Massachusetts. Her site, WitchesMassBay.com, has become a great resource for anyone wanting to research their witchy ancestors, including walking tours of various towns, and lists of the accused and the executed. Find out what you need to know about how to research the witches of New England through Robin Mason. Next, Fisher chats it up with Melissa Barker, "The Archive Lady" from Houston County, Tennessee. Melissa came kicking and screaming into the world of archives and now loves it! She wants to give you an idea of what ancestral material may be waiting for you to discover at your area archives. Her local discoveries are always fascinating, and her tips are invaluable. Then, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority, talks up a unique program that allows you to insert audio files on photos! Think of what that can do for the value and usefulness of what has been kept in your family all these years. Tom and Fisher also have a special event planned for this year's RootsTech, and you'll especially want to know about it if you're planning to attend. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!

Host Scott Fisher opens the show with David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist of the New England Historic Genealogical Society and AmericanAncestors.org. The guys spend some time gushing over a new, free toy that everyone can play with… DNAPainter.com. This new site makes the task of chromosome mapping a copy-and-paste snap. Hear what the guys have to say about it. Then it's news of the parting of an American World War II icon. Find out who passed and her impact on America. David then provides a fascinating bit of math which explains "pedigree collapse," as noted recently by noted blogger Dick Eastman. You will find the whole thing instructive! Then, the first trial is underway in Europe over the "right to be forgotten." When someone has something ugly in their past, that perhaps was resolved or was not their fault, is it fair that the news of the event stays in search engines forever? That's the debate that may affect the preservation of history. The guys will tell you more about it. David's Blogger Spotlight this week shines on J.R. Lowe, a history student at the University of Washington. See what she's writing about at GenealogistJournal.com. Next, Fisher catches up with his friend CeCe Moore, the Genetic Genealogist, and a regular on "Finding Your Roots" with Dr. Henry Louis Gates on PBS. CeCe shares her take on anticipated new developments in DNA for 2018 and how they may affect your research efforts. CeCe also gives us a peak into the new season of "Finding Your Roots." Then, Tom Perry, the Preservation Authority, gets us ready for RootsTech. Listen as he and Fisher reveal an incredibly fun, historic demonstration you will want to see at this year's conference in Salt Lake City, February 28- March 3. That's all this week on Extreme Genes, America's Family History Show!