Throughout the fall, visitors at Ohio University’s Alden Library will have an opportunity to view historical materials collected by the League of Women Voters of Athens County (LWVAC) in a student-curated exhibit. The exhibit will be on display on the 4th floor and will be celebrated with an opening reception on September 16th at 6pm in the 4th floor lounge.

The exhibit, Venturing Into Voting , includes publications, pamphlets, and ephemera which document the League’s history of activism and outreach since the Athens County chapter formed in April 1949. While the materials cover a wide range of issues spanning 70+ years, they also underscore the organization’s steadfast mission to promote informed voting.

Materials featured in the exhibit are sourced from the LWVAC records, an archival collection housed in the Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections. Since 1972, LWVAC organizers have donated local League records, publications, research files, and memorabilia to the Libraries’ archives where they can be accessed by students and researchers.

During the spring 2025 semester, Manuscripts Archives Intern, Alexis Reynolds, was tasked with processing the LWVAC records. Under the supervision of Manuscripts Archivist, Greta Suiter, she reviewed, arranged, and documented more than 30 boxes of content to be added to the collection finding aid so that future users can navigate it with ease. Reynolds reflects on this experience in a blog post, noting the connection between past and present through LWVAC’s 75-year legacy and continuous involvement here in Athens.

Reynolds, a junior studying English and World Religions, also curated the exhibition which highlights some of the unique artifacts she uncovered while processing the collection. In addition to national publications, the display features documents, reports, and print materials produced by the League’s local chapter.

Items selected for display illustrate the broad range of issues addressed by LWV throughout the years, including civil rights, climate action, health care reform, foreign policy, and more. According to Reynolds, “anyone who sees these pamphlets will understand just by looking at them that LWV was involved in various different issues across the years, some or all of which are still relevant today.”

The exhibit opening planned for September 16th coincides with National Voter Registration Day and will feature remarks from Professor Emerita Dr. Katherine Jellison about her involvement with the League.

For more information, please contact Greta Suiter at suiter@ohio.edu.

Ontario Ancestors is currently accepting proposals for our monthly 2026 Webinar Series. Our live webinars will take place on the first Thursday of the month at 7pm ET using the Zoom platform. These sessions are open to everyone.

Topics of Interest

We invite proposals on a wide range of topics, but the most popular topics for our members are:

Methods and Tools for Research - AI use in Genealogy, Where to Research - Archives, Digital Collections,

Municipalities, Public Libraries, Universities, Organizing & Storing Digital & Physical Records, Research

Methodology & Procedures (proof standards, citation, copyright...), DNA/Genetic Genealogy –

Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced, Research Planning/Execution – effective & efficient

Preserving and Communicating Our Family History - Writing/Publishing Your Family History, Preserving

Family Heirlooms & Photographs, Personal Legacy & Genealogy Will, Contributing to Your Genealogy

Community (indexing, transcribing, donating, volunteering, mentoring, researching), Writing/Publishing

Using Digital Media – Blogs, Social Media, Websites

Records for Research - Land Records (Ontario & Canada), County-specific Research Resources,

Immigration Records, Newspapers, Cemeteries, Religious Records

Researching Ethnic, Religious and Cultural Communities - Protestant Ancestors, Female Ancestors /

Women’s History, Catholic Ancestors, Quaker Ancestors, Indigenous Ancestors.

We are looking for topics on basic, intermediate and advanced levels. Selected speakers need to be prepared to  provide Ontario and/or Canadian specific examples in their presentations as applicable.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: Monday, September 15, 2025 at 11:59pm ET. To submit your proposal please follow this link: https://ogs.on.ca/webinar-submissions/.

Further Information

Speakers may submit up to 3 proposals for consideration.

All submissions will be reviewed but only those chosen will be contacted by Monday, October 1st.

All other submissions will be retained and reviewed throughout the year for potential series, mini-conferences or special topic webinars in the future.

Those chosen speakers will receive an honorarium for their webinar presentation.

About Ontario Ancestors

The Ontario Genealogical Society, founded in 1961, is the leading society in all aspects of Ontario-related family history research, preservation and communication. Our mission is to encourage, bring together and assist those interested in the pursuit of family history and to preserve our Ontario genealogical heritage. The Ontario Genealogical Society is the largest genealogical society inmCanada. Visit us at https:/ /ogs.on.ca

If you have any questions, please contact: Kim Barnsdale at webinar@ogs.on.ca.

Stephen White, who wrote the definitive publication on the early Acadians, "The Genealogical Dictionary of Acadian Families," died Aug. 13.

He was 78 years old and died in a nursing home.

White was born in Massachusetts and is of Acadian descent. He was a resident of Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada.

After becoming a lawyer, he spent 49 years fulfilling his life's work as a full-time genealogist at the Anselme-Chiasson Centre for Acadian Studies at the University of Moncton.

White "dedicated his whole life to preparing the genealogy of every Acadian in the world," Warren Perrin of Lafayette said.

Perrin, an author, attorney and advocate for preserving the Acadians' heritage, said White was "the foremost expert on Cajun genealogy in the world."

White visited Louisiana several times, Perrin said, and would help anyone who asked with their genealogy.

He was awarded many honors for his work, including the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Medal and in May was named an Honorary Member of the Order of Canada, the second-highest award of merit in Canada. He also belonged to several Acadian family associations, including the Fédération Associations de Familles Acadiennes. 

The first Acadians were residents of France who, in the 1600s, settled first in Port-Royale, Nova Scotia, then colonized other parts of Canada's Maritime region.

In the mid-1700s, the British gained control of the region called Acadia and deported the Acadians in what is now called the Great Upheaval or Le Grand Dérangement. Many made their way to Louisiana where their descendants today are called Cajuns.

A new museum telling the story of Clydebank through a range of never-before-displayed objects was officially opened today. 

The facility – located in the basement of Clydebank Library – features displays on the town’s proud industrial past from the world-famous Singer Sewing Machine production to the iconic shipbuilding legacy of John Brown’s and Beardmore Yard .

It also commemorates the bravery and resilience of the people of Clydebank during World War II, when the town was hit by one of the worst bomb strikes in Europe, as well as remembering those who lost their lives during those two days, now known as the Clydebank Blitz.

Members of the public, including two survivors of the Clydebank Blitz, were joined by elected members at the museum today to mark its official opening, while also marking the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day when WWII ended on 15 August 1945.

Councillor William Rooney, Convener of Corporate Services, said: “We’re proud to officially open Clydebank Museum, and it is all the more poignant that we are also marking the anniversary of VJ Day, which signalled the end of World War II, today.

“The Clydebank Blitz has shaped this town, and the museum provides a fantastic opportunity and insight into the strength and spirit of its people in the aftermath, so it’s fitting that we are marking both occasions today.

“This is an absolutely fantastic space which has something of interest for everyone — whether you're looking to trace your family history, explore the town’s industrial roots, or simply enjoy learning more about the place we call home. It's an important part of how we preserve our shared story for future generations.”

The space features a wide range of objects, photographs and artwork reflecting life in the community as well as offering digital access to historical newspapers, maps, and family records.

It has been designed to be welcoming and easy to use, with helpful staff on hand and facilities including digital terminals and a dedicated research room. Community groups and schools are also encouraged to make use of the new centre, with group visits and workshops available to book through the Council.

Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, Vice-Convener of Corporate Services, added: “This new space brings history to life in a way that’s accessible and engaging. It’s not just about looking back—it’s about helping people connect with the stories and heritage that continue to shape Clydebank today.”

The museum and archive is open Monday to Saturday, with late opening on Thursdays. Admission is free.

To find out more about opening hours, current displays, and how to book a group visit, go to https://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/leisure-parks-events/museums-and-galleries/clydebank-museum-and-local-history-archives/

The following is a press release written by the folks at the (U.S.) National Archives and Records Administration:

Family Day at Carter Library Bring your little ones to the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, in Atlanta, GA, on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 10 a.m. ET for a Family Day in honor of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Free children's books will be provided and authors will be there to read their books to the kids. A meet and greet to follow and free crafts will be available. The Boy Next Door On Tuesday, August 19, at 6 p.m. CT, come celebrate President Bill Clinton’s 79th birthday with Carolyn Staley and the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum in Little Rock, AR, during a special event entitled “The Boy Next Door.” During the talk, Staley will reflect on her remarkable 60-year friendship with President Bill Clinton, beginning as neighbors and classmates in high school and continuing through years of near-constant correspondence during his time as governor and president.  Register here for your free tickets to this in-person event. The Cartoons of Clifford Berryman The visual nature of political cartoons are unlike any other form of political commentary, and the creative license offered often captures unique historical perspectives.  Running for Office: Candidates, Campaigns, & the Cartoons of Clifford Berryman, an online exhibit from the National Archives, highlights pieces by renowned cartoonist Clifford K. Berryman, that illustrate the campaign process from the candidates’ decision to run for office to the ultimate outcome of the election. As an added bonus, all the cartoons and images in the virtual exhibit can be downloaded and printed!   This cartoon, printed before the 1948 Presidential election, shows Progressive Party candidate Henry Wallace "flip-flopping"- that is, changing positions - on defense policy. NAID: 306115

The following is a press release issued by the Portsmouth, New Hampshire Public Library:

Levenson Room

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Presented by the library’s Special Collections staff and members of the Ranger Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), these events are free, open to the public, and appropriate for all levels of interest and experience. All levels will learn something new!

Anyone who delves into their family history soon discovers a common frustration: records don’t always tell the same story. Names diverge, dates contradict, place names don’t make sense. When the paper trail splits in two, how do you decide which path leads to the truth? Fortunately, there are a handful of effective strategies that can help you sift through the inconsistencies and find the facts about your ancestors.

No registration required! Just drop in.

About the Presenter

For nearly three decades, B.J. Jamieson has pursued the stories hidden in her family tree, with research adventures that have taken her from local archives to Scotland and Ireland. She has been helping others track down their wayward relatives for almost as long. Along the way, she has earned graduate degrees in both library science and genealogy to improve her research skills.

Just a quick update — the $29 DNA kit sale has been extended through August 17! This is the lowest price this year, and there are just a few more days to grab it. MyHeritage DNA is just $29 If you have been curious about DNA testing, now’s a great time to explore it. MyHeritage offers: An ethnicity breakdown across 79 ethnicities and 2,114 regions A global DNA database of over 9 million users Powerful DNA tools to understand how matches are related Ancient Origins: a unique feature that traces origins back 10,000 years Access to advanced DNA tools and Ancient Origins is available with a Complete or Omni subscription, or a free trial. http://myheritage.com

Wyoming's museums, historical societies, archives and cultural heritage institutions can access free, professional archival expertise through the Wyoming Roving Archivist Program.

The program is excited to welcome Morgan Stence as the new roving archivist, ready to visit institutions across the state to help preserve and share Wyoming's irreplaceable historical collections.

"We know that many of Wyoming's cultural heritage institutions want to better care for their collection, but may not know where to start or lack the resources for professional consultation," said Marcie Blaylock, reference historian and archivist for the Wyoming State Archives. "The Roving Archivist Program brings that expertise directly to you – at no cost to your institution."

The program offers comprehensive, on-site assessments that help institutions understand their collections' needs and develop realistic improvement plans. 

Applications are now open, and institutions across Wyoming are encouraged to apply. The program serves museums, historical societies, archives, libraries with special collections, tribal cultural centers and any organization caring for historical materials.

Apply online at tinyurl.com/wyo-roving-archivist-app.

Learn more about the Roving Archivist Program by visiting rovingarchivist.wyo.gov.

Vanessa St.Oegger-Menn, Pan Am 103 archivist and assistant university archivist in the Libraries’ Special Collections Research Center, has been announced as the 2025 recipient of the Society of American Archivists (SAA) Spotlight Award.

Created in 2005, the award acknowledges contributions made by those who work in service to the profession and archival collections and whose work may not usually receive public acknowledgment.

St.Oegger-Menn earned an M.A. in 20-century British literature at California State University, Long Beach and she also has a master of library and information science with an emphasis in archives and cultural heritage preservation from the School of Information Studies.

In SAA, St.Oegger-Menn has served in a crucial role in SAA’s efforts to support archivists and communities who collect in times of crisis. In 2018, she was a member of the initial Tragedy Response Initiative Task Force which was convened to create and compile resources for archivists dealing with sudden tragedy.

The Task Force later grew into the Crisis, Disaster and Tragedy Response Working Group (CDTRWG) with responsibility to maintain and update SAA’s “Documenting in Times of Crisis: A Resource Kit,” develop immediate and on-going resources for archivists facing crises and develop partnerships with organizations whose relief efforts focus on cultural organizations.St.Oegger-Menn was invited to serve as one of the co-chairs of the first incarnation of the working group.

In this capacity, she has had an enormous impact on the work of this group.She has led essential efforts to build organizational infrastructure and to identify workflows to keep projects on track and worked with committee members and council liaisons to surmount obstacles.

St.Oegger-Menn has also served as one of the group’s most steadfast advocates by representing CDTRWG through speaking engagements and at regional, national and international conferences. She has co-presented on the working group to a host of internal and external organizations, including the Art Libraries Society of North America and the Australian Society of Archivists.

She co-authored an article in 2023 for SAA’s magazine, Archival Outlook, that detailed the working group’s efforts and has facilitated the working group’s ongoing speaker series. Upon her time for transitioning out of the role of co-chair, St.Oegger-Menn developed a plan for a post-chair transition to provide support to incoming co-chairs and she also agreed to remain on the working group and co-lead the Collaboration and Outreach subcommittee.

The hard work and empathy St.Oegger-Menn has brought to her work has not gone unnoticed by her colleagues. Through her work with trauma-informed archives, she has worked indefatigably to support archivists in times of crisis. As her nominator, Kara McClurken, pointed out in her nomination letter, “Her passion, her empathy and her experiences through the working group and through her position as the Pan Am 103 archivist at Syracuse University have been essential to the creation of a supportive and sustainable low-cost support network to archivists and communities experiencing trauma … Long after her time on the working group is over, the infrastructure, the tools, and the community she has fostered will serve as a legacy to her dedication to the cause.”

How long has your family lived in Muskingum County?  Could they have been among the first to call Zanesville home?  Brooke Anderson from the Muskingum County Genealogical Society will give a presentation about how to discover if your ancestors were among the first residents of Muskingum County, and how to join First Families of Muskingum County.

• Wednesday, August 20 
• 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. 
• Ohio University Zanesville – Herrold Hall1425 Newark Road, Zanesville, OH, 43701

www.muskingumcountyhistory.org

www.muskingumcountyhistory.org/muskingum-250

www.ohio.edu/zanesville & www.muskingumlibrary.org/

https://www.historyplace.com/specials/calendar/august.htm