#16 – Sam Williams | Building a Family Forest

Sam Williams focuses on building his family forest, not only his family tree.  Researching his family has strengthened his connection with family close and distant, given him a greater sense of patriotism and allowed him to sink his roots deeply into his home county.  Learn from Sam what it means to encounter your ancestors, not just identify them.

In this episode Sam shares:

• What he thinks looking back on himself as a beginning researcher [3:59]
• How his connection to place, local and national, has grown [6:32]
• What it takes to really get to know your ancestors [14:29]
• How knowing about his ancestors strengthened relationships with living family [17:24]
• The difference between encountering versus identifying your ancestors [21:08]

About Sam:

Sam Williams is a professional genealogist with a focus on Central Virginia, African American, and Greek American research. He has finished the National Genealogical Society's American Genealogical Studies courses and is currently in ProGen Study Group 50. Sam loves presenting on genealogy and his most recent lecture is part of Virtual Genealogical Association's upcoming November 13-15 virtual conference. He received a BA in International Affairs and Spanish from James Madison University, and a Master of Divinity from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology.

Connect with Sam:

 Website: The Orthodox Genealogist
Instagram: Sam Williams
Facebook: The Orthodox Genealogist
Twitter: Sam Williams
 
 

Also Mentioned:

General Society of Mayflower Descendants

Sons of the American Revolution

Jamestowne Society

Episode Sponsor:

 Episode sponsored by Heather Murphy's signature 1:1 service, Stories in Your Roots.

Get a free guide, "7 Ways You (Unintentionally) Sabotage Your Family Tree" and have more success as you research your family history. 

Are we connected on Instagram or Facebook yet? Find me @msheathermurphy