Jamboree 2015 - Meet the Headliners: Thomas W. Jones, Ph.D., CG, CGL, FASG, FUGA, FNGS

Dr. Thomas W. Jones is an award-winning genealogical author, editor, educator, and researcher who is board certified.  He focuses on genealogical methods and solutions to challenging research problems.  Although he has solved genealogical problems in most American states and five European countries, he specializes in Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Northern Ireland, and Virginia.  He teaches in Boston University's Genealogical Research Certificate Program and coordinates courses at GRIP, IGHR, and SLIG institutes.

Since 1997 Tom has been a regular speaker at FGS, NGS, and regional, state, local, and international genealogical society conferences and workshops.  Since 2002 he has co-edited the National Genealogical Society Quarterly, and he is the author of the textbook/workbook Mastering Genealogical Proof.

FR-E Friday June 5, 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Workshop
Documenting a Respectable Family History: Guidelines, Not Rules
Document family history research, including online resources and DNA test results.
3 1/2 hour workshop.  Additional registration and fees apply. Limited to 40 attendees.

FR012 Friday June 4, 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
The Jones Jinx: Tracing Common Surnames
This case study will explain how missing, erroneous, and altered records were overcome to identify the parents of an orphan named Jones.  The example will demonstrate research principles others can use to solve common surname problems.

FR031 Friday June 5, 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Debunking Misleading Records
Genealogical sources of all kinds contain errors, both accidental and intentional, that mislead. Standard tests expose the errors, helping researchers make correct conclusions.

FR037 Friday June 5, 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. - Friday Banquet.
How Genealogy Hasn't Changed in Fifty Years
A lighthearted look back at personal research since the 1960's and its lessons for today.

SA003 Saturday June 6, 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Can a Complex Research Problem be Solved Solely Online?
Step by step, attendees will suggest online sources and research strategies for tracing an ancestor who seems to disappear and reappear.  The interactive case study will show both how such cases can be solved online and the limits of material online today.