28. Facebook and Genealogy

 

Probably not surprising but Facebook, one of the world’s dominant social media platforms is also a great platform for pursuing family history.  You can join various Facebook Groups to help you advance your research.  For example, there are Facebook Groups dedicated to:

 

1. Ethnic groups (e.g., Slovenian)
2. Specific surnames (e.g., McCracken)
3. Local historical societies (e.g., Marmora Historical Society)
4. Specific geographic areas (e.g., Alsace-Lorraine, France)
5. And much more

 

For example, in my family, my great great grandmother was a McCracken.  So, I joined the McCracken group.  Through this group, I learned that the McCracken surname originated in southeast Scotland, and I have now connected with other McCracken researchers.  Still working my way to cracking the “Brick Wall” that is Mary Anne McCracken.  

 

I also joined the Facebook group for the Banbridge Historical Society in Northern Ireland near where my father’s family originated.  Recently, I posted an old family photo of the storefront of my grand Uncle Samuel’s cycle shop.  A chap commented on my post that he knew the place and had enjoyed his first cigarette at 11 years of age on the hood of a car with his Uncle Fred.   That is, until his mother arrived on the scene.  I have now corresponded directly with my newfound cousin and just learned that he has a sister living only 25 miles from me here in North America.  

 

Give it a try!  I know that you will find some new and useful resources to add to your genealogical toolkit.  Try searching for items where you need some help.

 

Ron Gilmore

Email:         rvg3@me.com

Website:     https://rgenealogy.ca