Author Archives: debbiemieszala

Fair-weather or Forever? The Influence of Friendship in Your Family’s Story

Posted on January 8, 2026 by debbiemieszala

When I was a child, my mom warned about fair-weather friends. They’re around when they need something or times are good, then vanish when you need support. I was unsuccessfully wishing myself to fall asleep when her forgotten advice came … Continue reading →

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Take Two! A “Genealogy Quick Start”

Posted on September 14, 2025 by debbiemieszala

When Shamele Jordan asked if I wanted to be a guest on Genealogy Quick Start TV, she wondered if there was a favorite genealogy story I wanted to share. There sure is, and I might get haunted for telling it!

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Lassoing Prunes: Introducing Historic Oregon Law

Posted on July 13, 2025 by debbiemieszala

I’m not sure what really happened in Oregon. I’m missing context. Although Amanda Mathews’ prune ranch was not the most fascinating aspect of her life, her orchard and that she lived in Michigan were all family tradition recalled.[1]

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Advancing Your Education: Fun in Someone Else’s Sun!

Posted on February 17, 2025 by debbiemieszala

The Florida State Genealogical Society hosts “Poolside Chats,” a monthly webinar series. These free webinars are available to society members and the public, so you are welcome to attend! I look forward to presenting a webinar in the series this … Continue reading →

Posted in Case Study, Education, Family Research, Methodology, Webinars | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

The Drowning of a Family Fortune: Introducing Historic Mining Law

Posted on January 16, 2025 by debbiemieszala

My grandmother brought a steamer trunk from New York to Illinois in the 1950s. She did not stay long, but that black box, large enough to hold a small child, sat in our basement through at least the early 1970s. … Continue reading →

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Identify, Understand, and Reveal: Introducing the Historic Land Laws Collection

Posted on December 31, 2024 by debbiemieszala

Happy New Year’s Eve! If you want to ring in 2025 with a few good books, have I got a deal for you.

Posted in Land, Law, Uncategorized | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

Advancing Your Education: Free Webinar on Solving a Family Mystery This Tuesday

Posted on August 18, 2024 by debbiemieszala

Do I have a genealogy story to tell you this Tuesday! It’s a case study that starts with a missing man. What genealogist can let a man stay missing?

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