To understand Pennsylvania’s past, genealogists need knowledge of PA farming. Most of PA’s first immigrants were farmers and agriculture dominated the economy for 200 years. Dr. Sally McMurry, professor emerita of history of Penn State University shares highlights from her … [Read more...] about Podcast Episode 36: PA Farming History with Sally McMurry
history
Hidden Treasures in Records at FamilySearch
FamilySearch is a mega-site of genealogical records for family historians. Millions of microfilmed and digitized records in the catalog hold hidden treasures for the adventurous genealogy researcher. I'll point you in the direction to start your search in this blog … [Read more...] about Hidden Treasures in Records at FamilySearch
Podcast Episode 29: History Resources to Enrich Genealogy Research
If you are looking to understand more about those genealogy records, sometimes the best thing to do is learn more history. You don’t need the learn the whole history of Pennsylvania, but knowing more about the time and place of your ancestors helps makes sense of those … [Read more...] about Podcast Episode 29: History Resources to Enrich Genealogy Research
A Poem on Johnny Appleseed
Recently I learned that Johnny Appleseed was a real person, and not just an American tall tale. Born John Chapman near Boston, Massachusetts in 1774, he spent much of his young adulthood in western Pennsylvania. He walked with his brother from Massachusetts to Pittsburgh over … [Read more...] about A Poem on Johnny Appleseed
Podcast Episode 24: President James Buchanan and Wheatland
Of the forty five Presidents of the United States, only one came from Pennsylvania, James Buchanan. He was elected in 1856 and many historians say his policies led to the Civil War. What were the policies and politics of Buchanan? Did your Pennsylvania ancestors support those … [Read more...] about Podcast Episode 24: President James Buchanan and Wheatland