20th ANNUAL FAMILY HISTORY FAIR WITH ACCLAIMED KEYNOTE SPEAKER

The East Texas Genealogical Society is hosting the 20th Annual Family History Fair on Saturday, September 10th from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Tyler Public Library, 201 S College Ave, Tyler, TX 75702.

“This fair is open to those wanting to learn more about their family or already working on finding their ancestors,” MicheleBailey, president of The East Texas Genealogy Society and president of the fair’s planning committee.

The event, “Discovering Your Roots and Branches,” is free and open to the public. This year is the largest fair to date, with more than 13 speakers and 16 breakout sessions. Tyler is excited to welcome keynote speaker Bob Taylor, founder of The Family History Guide, a free resource designed to teach beginners how to find their loved ones.

“Speakers are coming from all over the country from Oregon to South Carolina,” says Bailey. “We are so fortunate to have the top experts in family history coming to our city.”

Anyone interested in connecting with ancestors can simply show up any time on Saturday, or reserve a spot at WeLoveFamilyHistory.com. The schedule and speakers are posted online. It is a free event, however, a hands-on beginner workshop, a lunch from Jason’s Deli, and USB devices are available for purchase.

One speaker of note is Don Payton, President of the African American Genealogy Interest Group of the Dallas Genealogical Society. Payton has more than 35 years of experience in African American family history and helping people connect with loved ones. Payton has been featured in D Magazine and in national media news events and interviews.

“There can be many roadblocks in doing African American history,” says Bailey. “Coming to these classes is a start to learning how to connect with your ancestors. We are so fortunate Don is coming!”

There will be several booths, giveaways, and memberships awarded at the fair. Sponsors include Brookshires, Outback Steakhouse, Traditions, Texas Roadhouse, Potpourri House, and many more. Family Tree DNA is also giving away a free DNA test, and the National Institute for Genealogical Studies is giving away a free program to all participants, which is a $99 value.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is also a key player in organizing the fair, with speakers, planning committee members and organizing volunteers on JustServe for the National Day of Service. The Church has developed FamilySearch, a free platform for family history that is a great asset to family history.

“When you know your roots it can change your future,” says Jill Taylor, planning committee member and Church media representative. “As you dive into family history your eyes will light up when you see photos, document stories, or find lines connecting you to something bigger than yourself.”

Bailey has participated in the fair for more than a decade. “I feel very strongly about this work. It is amazing the things that can be discovered when you learn about your loved ones,” says Bailey. “There hasn’t been anything like this in East Texas. None of the Family History fairs have ever been like this. This is the largest event of its kind.”