A Gateway to 5.7 Million Records: Using MyHeritage's "HISTORIES, MEMORIES, & BIOGRAPHIES" Collection

In this webinar, professional genealogist Sharon Monson unveiled the immense value of the “Histories, Memories & Biographies” collection—an often-overlooked genealogical resource containing over 5.7 million records. This robust database includes a wide variety of historical texts, local and family histories, and biographical accounts, offering researchers a wealth of firsthand narratives, images, and primary source material. Sharon guided viewers through the process of navigating this collection effectively, refining searches by category and location, and leveraging its diverse content to discover ancestors, build family connections, and uncover rich historical context.

Key Takeaways

• A Richly Varied Collection, Categorized for Targeted Searches: The MyHeritage “Histories, Memories & Biographies” collection is organized into three primary categories: Local and General History, Family Histories, and Biographies. Researchers can refine their searches by geographical region, allowing for targeted exploration across countries including the USA, Canada, Europe, Latin America, and Oceania.

• Uncover Hidden Stories and Rare Images: Sharon highlighted compelling examples, such as a 14-year-old’s pioneer diary, multi-generational biographies, and early colonial inventories—all rich in genealogical detail. Many records include rare photographs and illustrations that offer a visual connection to ancestors and the eras in which they lived.

• Tips and Techniques for Maximizing Search Success: Users are encouraged to explore search strategies beyond basic name queries—such as browsing by location or using partial names—to uncover overlooked matches. Sharon emphasized using the “We Found More Records For” feature to expand research and validate findings with additional documents.

Explore the Full Webinar for Deeper Insight
This session is an essential watch for anyone aiming to enhance their genealogical toolkit. By viewing the full webinar, researchers can learn specific navigation tips, see detailed examples of records, and gain inspiration for using lesser-known sources to build a richer family narrative.

Don’t Miss the Syllabus and Supplemental Resources
For those ready to take their research further, the accompanying webinar syllabus includes step-by-step guidance, sample search results, and direct links to highlighted collections. Dive in today to uncover stories waiting in the pages of history—and perhaps find your ancestors among them.