Ten Tantalizing Sources and the Lessons They Teach

In this engaging Legacy Family Tree webinar, genealogist Jay Fonkert explores the fascinating and often surprising world of historical sources through his presentation “Ten Tantalizing Sources and the Lessons They Teach.” Rather than focusing on a single type of record or research problem, Fonkert encourages genealogists to think critically about how sources are created, recorded, and interpreted. Through ten captivating case studies, he illustrates how records can reveal — and sometimes conceal — the real stories behind our ancestors’ lives. His approach blends rigorous source analysis with the joy of discovery, reminding researchers that genealogy is as much about understanding context and human experience as it is about collecting names and dates.

Key Takeaways:

• Evaluate Every Source with Care: Fonkert emphasizes that all records — even official documents — can contain errors. Genealogists must examine the reliability of both the informant and the recorder, understand the provenance of records, and recognize that “consistent information” across multiple sources does not always guarantee accuracy.

• Every Record Has a Backstory: Through examples such as shifting names, mistaken identities, and elusive migrations, Fonkert demonstrates that each document opens doors to deeper questions. From census errors to dramatic name changes, his stories show how even flawed or fragmentary sources can uncover hidden family histories when properly analyzed.

• Follow Clues Across Time and Space: Fonkert highlights the importance of researching broadly and creatively. He shares how a single church record led to uncovering an ancestor’s unexpected migration to Dakota Territory, and how authored works — when carefully vetted — can offer leads to otherwise lost information.

By blending humor, historical insight, and practical research strategies, Fonkert delivers a masterclass in source evaluation and genealogical storytelling. Viewers are encouraged to watch the full webinar to gain a deeper understanding of how to interpret complex records, recognize potential pitfalls, and turn simple findings into meaningful family narratives.

For genealogists eager to continue learning, the webinar’s syllabus offers a wealth of supplementary resources, examples, and references to help refine research methods. Exploring these materials provides an invaluable opportunity to enhance analytical skills, discover new record types, and enrich one’s own ancestral stories.