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Family discovery talk

The National Museum of Bermuda has launched an educational programmes called “Tracing Our Roots/Routes”.

This year-long series of online presentations and workshops by overseas and local experts and an on-site contemporary art exhibit will support family history research and connections to the past.

The programme kicks off on Wednesday, February 17 at 5:30pm with a free webinar “The Journey of Family Discovery I: Tips, Tools & Strategies” by Kenyatta Berry, a renowned American genealogist, author, attorney and television host of PBS’s Genealogy Roadshow.

Berry will help people learn how to interview relatives, use genealogical methods and access US and immigration records for people who left Bermuda for the United States.

Each attendee will receive an interactive “Family Discovery Toolkit” to help trace their ancestry.

Ms Berry’s knowledge of African American genealogy, enslaved ancestral research and DNA has made her an invaluable “go to” source for information for people around the world.

The museum said Ms Berry continued to make the world of genealogy more accessible as demand grew for people to learn more about their ancestry and DNA.

Lisa Howie, the NMB director of learning & engagement said: “Kenyatta has so much experience to share, which she will do in her own kind and pleasant way.

“I appreciate that starting down – or returning to – the path of family history can be a lot to take on, but Kenyatta has a way of talking through resources that feels achievable.

“I think she’s going to give everyone a sense of direction that will help push through any fears or barriers that may make the family history quest daunting or overwhelming.”

This webinar is part of a two-section workshop.

The second, “The Journey of Family Discovery II: Understanding Local Resources”, will be hosted by island l experts Jane Downing of the NMB, Ellen Hollis from the Bermuda National Library and Mandellas Lightbourne of the Bermuda Archives.

It will be held on March 17 at 5:30pm.

For more information and to register, visit www.nmb.bm/tracing-our-roots.

Pupil and teacher resources will also be available. For details, e-mail education@nmb.bm.

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