More than 800 family historians and genealogists will attend the conference.
SPRINGFIELD – Anyone interested in learning about their ancestry will have the chance during the 2011 New England Regional Genealogical Conference, “Exploring New Paths to Your Roots,” which will be held at the Sheraton and Marriott hotels April 6-10.
“The event will include over 60 expert speakers from all over the world talking about genealogy,” said Marian Pierre-Louis, the publicity chairwoman for the conference.
More than 800 family historians and genealogists will attend the conference, which is considered the largest genealogical conference in New England.
Pierre-Louis said a new batch of shows on television dealing with family history has increased the popularity of genealogy.
“Shows like NBC’s “Who Do You Think You Are?” and “Faces of America” have brought genealogy into the mainstream,” she said. “The show “Top Chef” recently aired an episode where the contestants had to create a meal based on what they learned about their family ancestry. It was the most watched episode in the series’ history.”
Pierre-Louis said in the 1970s when “Roots” aired on television there was a similar increase in the popularity of researching one’s family genealogy.
“A lot of people are interested in finding out where they come from and this conference can help them do that,” she said.
The conference will feature genealogy author and ancestor John Philip Colletta and Paul Milne, a genealogist specializing in British history.
“We will also have genealogists who deal specifically with Irish ancestry, Polish ancestry and more,” she said.
Pierre-Louis said local genealogist Lucy Lewis will host a talk on African American ancestry and genealogy.
The event will also include an exhibit hall, which is free and open to the public, featuring genealogical book sellers, publishers, societies, authors and more. An Ancestor Roadshow will also be held. It will give registered attendees an opportunity to consult with professional genealogists for free.
Participants are welcome to attend all days or an individual day of the conference and can register at the door. For more information and a schedule of events visit www.nergc.org.