Genealogy and the art of tracing one’s family history were discussed last week during a government-led presentation.

“Tracing Our Roots: Untold Stories Through Genealogy” was the first talk given for the 2025 Bermudian Heartbeats Lecture Series.

The discussion, hosted last Thursday by a panel of speakers, gave insights into how genealogical research was conducted

A spokeswoman for the Department of Culture said: “The event showcased the community’s desire to learn about their past, not only to strengthen personal connections to family history but also to help sustain cultural identity for future generations.”

Jessie Moniz-Hardy, an historian and journalist with The Royal Gazette, told the stories of people from her family tree and spoke on the importance of preserving one’s ancestral history.

Those wishing to explore more of Ms Moniz-Hardy’s research can visit her Facebook group, Bermuda Lookups.

Carika Weldon, a genetic researcher, discussed the role of DNA testing in tracing one’s background.

She later gifted an audience member with a free BeforeYou DNA testing kit created by her laboratory, CariGenetics.

Ellen Hollis, from the Bermuda National Library, showed attendees how to access archives and other tools to learn about their genealogy.

The event will be available through CITV and the YouTube channel of the Department of Culture.

• Those who wish to stay informed about the Department of Culture’s events can keep abreast by visiting culture.bm