Federation of Genealogical Societies Annual Conference

August 18-21 at Knoxville, Tennessee

The Federation of Genealogical Societies will host its annual conference August 18-21, 2010 at the Knoxville Convention Center in Knoxville, Tennessee. This year’s theme is “Rediscovering America’s First Frontier.” Co-Sponsors for the event are the East Tennessee Historical Society and Kentucky Historical Society.

Speakers from across the United States will present lectures and workshops on topics of interest to genealogists and family historians. Regardless of one’s level of experience, learning opportunities abound for those seeking to improve their research. Topics include Tennessee & Kentucky research, research in other Southern States, researching ethnic groups including African Americans, Native Americans, and the Scots-Irish, methodology, resources, technology, DNA, land platting, and much more. Wednesday’s workshops are part of the “Focus on Societies” day which ends with focus groups for different areas of society leadership.

Meals are available for an additional cost. Different organizations sponsor luncheons each day and attendees often select the one to attend based on the speaker or sponsoring group. This year’s banquet will be held at the Museum of Appalachia in nearby Norris. The fee includes bus transportation, the meal, and museum admission. You do not need to be registered for the conference to purchase meal tickets.

The exhibit hall will be filled with booths displaying print and electronic publications, software, membership opportunities, and services. Among the more popular items are books (new, used, and rare), magazines, journals, CDs, DVDs, maps, charts, databases, software, preservation supplies, and gift items. The exhibit hall opens Thursday morning following the keynote address. Extended hours are available Friday evening. The exhibit hall is open to those who are not registered for the conference.

Complete information on the conference and secure online registration is available at the conference web site, http://www.fgs.org/2010conference/index.php. Be sure to check the conference blog (http://www.fgsconferenceblog.org/) for regular updates. The blog includes many things to make your stay in Knoxville more enjoyable, including information on area attractions, research facilities, and much more.

Be sure to take advantage of the early bird discount by registering before June 21, 2010.