Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen

Let us know what you think!Episode OverviewHittin' the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, exploring the records, places, and historical context that help families uncover difficult and forgotten stories.In this episode, Kathleen speaks with Mark Schindler, Rebba Omer, and Daniel Feldman about the Forgotten Children Initiative and what happens when historical research into youth prisons leads to the discovery of children buried in neglected and forgotten cemeteries.The conversation traces a path from Maryland to the Missouri Training School for Boys in Boonville, Missouri, where research uncovered another forgotten cemetery and raised difficult questions about race, institutional history, access, ethics, and how genealogists can help reconnect families with children whose stories were nearly lost.If you would like to help with this initiative, Contact: Rebba Omer at [email protected] This Episode, You'll LearnHow historical research into juvenile institutions can lead to forgotten burial groundsWhy death certificates are an essential starting point for forensic genealogyHow annual reports, institutional archives, and facility newspapers can identify individuals when names are missingWhat racial segregation and historical disparities reveal about institutional recordsHow genealogists can assist with family identification and restorative justiceWhy access, permissions, and family involvement matter when researching burial sitesTopics CoveredThe origins of the Forgotten Children Initiative at Georgetown's Center for Youth JusticeHistorical research into youth facilities and hidden burial sites in MarylandThe Missouri Training School for Boys in Boonville, MissouriResearch into Boonville's forgotten cemeteryJuvenile justice history and its connection to the presentRacial segregation and disparities in institutional historyDeath certificates as a starting point for forensic genealogyAnnual reports, archives, and institutional newspapersIdentifying individuals when names are incomplete or missingRestorative justice, memorials, and family-guided decisionsAccess and research permissions for burial grounds on Department of Corrections propertyEpisode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen and her guests explore how a historical investigation can grow into a larger effort to identify forgotten children, locate burial sites, and reconnect families with relatives whose lives disappeared into institutional records.The discussion begins with the origins of the Forgotten Children Initiative and research into youth facilities in Maryland. That work uncovered evidence of neglected burial grounds and created a broader effort to identify the children buried there and locate their descendants.The conversation then turns to Boonville, Missouri, where research into the Missouri Training School for Boys led to the discovery of another forgotten cemetery. The guests discuss how a seemingly simple search can open a much larger investigation involving institutional records, death certificates, annual reports, newspapers, archives, and historical patterns of racial segregation.The episode also addresses the ethical responsibilities involved in forensic genealogy and cemetery research. Identifying a person is only one part of the work. Questions of access, permissions, memorialization, and family involvement remain essential—particularly when burial grounds are located on government or Department of Corrections property.Key questions examined include:How do genealogists begin identifying individuals buried in forgotten cemeteries?What records can help when a person's name is missing or incomplete?How does institutional history reveal patterns of racial inequality?What does restorative justice look like when families are finally connected with a forgotten relative?Who should make decisions about memorials and the treatment of historic burial grounds?Resources & Research Tools MentionedDeath certificatesInstitutional annual reportsJuvenile facility archivesInstitutional and facility newspapersCemetery and burial recordsHistorical records relating to racial segregationForensic genealogy research methodsDepartment of Corrections records and property access proceduresWhy This Episode MattersGenealogy is not limited to building family trees. It can also help restore names, identities, and histories to people who were marginalized, institutionalized, and forgotten.This episode demonstrates how genealogists, historians, archivists, and families can work together to investigate neglected cemeteries and recover the stories of children whose lives were often reduced to incomplete institutional records. It also asks an important question: once these individuals are identified, how do we respectfully return their stories to the families and communities connected to them?About the PodcastHittin' the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping listeners explore overlooked records, difficult family histories, and the historical context that shapes the stories we inherit.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Episode OverviewHittin' the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping researchers build stronger family histories through better sources and smarter research methods. In this episode, host Kathleen Brandt shares a curated summer reading list for genealogists, featuring nonfiction books that demonstrate how historians use original records to reconstruct real lives.More than book recommendations, this episode explores how accomplished nonfiction authors approach research—and how genealogists can apply those same techniques to break through brick walls and create richer, evidence-based family stories.Episode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen explores why some of the best genealogy lessons come not from genealogy books, but from well-researched works of narrative history. These authors routinely uncover forgotten stories by combining original documents, archival collections, maps, correspondence, government records, and local history into compelling narratives.The episode highlights several recommended books, including Obstinate Daughters by Denise Kiernan, The Indifferent Stars Above by Daniel James Brown, and The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson, demonstrating how each author reconstructs lives through careful documentation and thoughtful analysis. The discussion also introduces the show's blog on reform school identification projects, illustrating how ancestors often appear in unexpected record collections: 11 Overlooked Records for Children Sent to Reform Schools.Obstinate Daughters by Denise KiernanThe Indifferent Stars Above by Daniel James BrownThe Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel WilkersonAdditional Resources Behind the Uniform (Missouri Humanities-supported project)  Reform school identification: 11 Overlooked Records for Children Sent to Reform Schools.Why This Episode MattersExcellent genealogy depends on more than finding names in databases, it requires understanding the historical world your ancestors lived in. This episode demonstrates how reading well-documented history can sharpen research skills, expose overlooked sources, and inspire more accurate, engaging family histories.About the PodcastHittin' the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping listeners discover overlooked records, understand historical context, and develop research strategies that bring family stories to life.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Episode OverviewHittin' the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping researchers uncover records and historical context that bring family stories to life. In this episode, host Kathleen Brandt explores the U.S. Congressional Serial Set, one of the most overlooked resources in genealogy research.Far more than a collection of congressional documents, the Serial Set contains petitions, testimony, claims, investigations, and reports that can place ordinary Americans into the historical record. Kathleen explains how these records can help researchers discover ancestors, understand community issues, and add context to family histories that extend far beyond names and dates.In This Episode, You'll Learn What the U.S. Congressional Serial Set is and why genealogists should care about it  How digitized federal records make searching easier than ever  The types of ancestors who may appear in Congressional records  How to use the Serial Set alongside other record collections  Research strategies for finding ancestors when direct name searches fail Topics Covered The U.S. Congressional Serial Set and its genealogical value Searching digitized federal documents through govinfo.gov  Veterans, widows, petition signers, centenarians, and community advocates  Congressional petitions, testimony, claims, and investigations  Using the Serial Set as both a primary source and supporting evidence  Freedmen's Bureau records and federal documentation  Reconstruction-era records and connections to Juneteenth  Southern Claims Commission files and witness testimony  Researching formerly enslaved individuals and enslavers  Search strategies using ships, locations, organizations, and community events Episode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen explains why many genealogists overlook the Congressional Serial Set, assuming it only contains information about elected officials and national politics. In reality, these volumes often document the lives of everyday Americans who interacted with the federal government through petitions, compensation claims, military matters, land disputes, and community concerns.The episode explores how digitization efforts have made these records more accessible and how researchers can use them to uncover details unavailable in local records. Kathleen discusses the value of combining Serial Set findings with sources such as Freedmen's Bureau records, military files, land records, and local histories.Special attention is given to Reconstruction-era documentation, including Southern Claims Commission files that contain affidavits, witness statements, and testimony from formerly enslaved individuals, enslavers, neighbors, and community members. These records can provide extraordinary context for understanding families during and after the Civil War.Key questions examined include: How can federal records help solve local genealogy problems?  What kinds of ordinary people appear in Congressional documents?  What should researchers do when a name search produces no results?  How can historical events be used to uncover hidden family connections? Resources & Research Tools Mentioned U.S. Congressional Serial Set  GovInfo.gov digital federal collections  Freedmen's Bureau records  Southern Claims Commission files  Reconstruction-era federal records  Military and pension records  Petitions, testimony, and claims documentation Why This Episode MattersMany researchers focus exclusively on local records while overlooking federal collections that document entire communities and major historical events. The Congressional Serial Set provides access to stories, claims, testimony, and evidence that can place ancestors within the broader context of American history and reveal connections that other records miss.About the PodcastHittin' the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping listeners navigate historical records, uncover hidden sources, and understand the larger historical forces that shaped their ancestors' lives.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!#genealogy #familysearch #census #bountylandEpisode OverviewHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping researchers uncover overlooked records and stronger research strategies. In this episode, host Kathleen Brandt answers listener questions focused on three high-impact genealogy sources that can quickly break through stubborn brick walls: Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) records, Virginia Revolutionary War bounty land grants, and Ireland’s newly free 1926 census.Kathleen explains where to search, what clues researchers often miss, and how to connect these records to broader family stories involving migration, military service, inheritance, and identity.In This Episode, You’ll Learn Why CCC records are valuable for Depression-era genealogy research  How Revolutionary War bounty land files extend far beyond the first certificate  What makes the 1926 Irish Census important for Irish family history  How supporting records reveal widows, heirs, migration patterns, and community ties  Why original files often contain clues omitted from abstracts and indexes Topics Covered Civilian Conservation Corps records and Depression-era family research  CCC applications and clues about parents, schooling, work history, and migration  Researching CCC records through newspapers, local societies, state archives, and National Park Service collections  Virginia Revolutionary War bounty land digitization  Common mistakes in bounty land research  Warrants, surveys, plat maps, patents, tax lists, deeds, probate, and wills  Why abstract books are not enough for complete genealogy research  Ireland’s free 1926 Census and Irish genealogy research  Linking Irish census records to passenger lists, naturalization records, and church documents Episode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen walks listeners through three record groups that frequently contain overlooked genealogical evidence. The episode begins with CCC records, explaining how applications and related files reveal personal details about family structure, education, employment, and migration during the Great Depression.The conversation then shifts to Virginia Revolutionary War bounty land grants, where Kathleen explains why researchers should never stop at the initial certificate. Supporting documents—including surveys, deeds, probate files, and tax lists—often identify widows, heirs, neighbors, and land relationships that deepen family reconstruction.Finally, Kathleen explores the release of Ireland’s 1926 Census, discussing how researchers can connect census findings with U.S. immigration records, naturalization paperwork, and church records to build more complete Irish family histories.Key questions examined include: What records are researchers most likely to overlook?  Why do original files matter more than abstracts?  How can one record group lead to multiple generations of evidence? Resources & Research Tools MentionedNational Archives of Ireland 1926 Census Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) applications and records  Newspapers and local historical societies  State archives and National Park Service collections  Virginia Revolutionary War bounty land records  Plat maps, tax lists, deeds, probate, and wills  Ireland’s 1926 Census  Passenger lists, naturalization records, and church registers Why This Episode MattersMany genealogy breakthroughs come from looking beyond indexes and pulling the full record set surrounding an ancestor. This episode demonstrates how layered research across military, land, labor, and immigration records creates stronger and more accurate family histories.About the PodcastHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping listeners navigate historical records, research challenges, and overlooked sources to uncover deeper family stories.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!#genealogy #genealogytips #rootstrip  #FamilyHistoryTravel Episode OverviewHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping researchers move beyond online databases and into the archives, collections, and communities where deeper family stories live. In this episode, host Kathleen Brandt gets honest about what researchers cannot afford to forget on a summer genealogy road trip—from choosing the right repositories to asking better questions than simply “Do you have my ancestor’s name?”Using examples from research trips to Detroit and Ann Arbor, Kathleen explains why offline records are often the key to understanding the motivations, conflicts, migrations, and community ties that shaped ancestors’ lives.In This Episode, You’ll Learn Why online genealogy databases rarely tell the full story  How to identify repositories worth visiting in person  What kinds of offline records reveal context and motivation  How archivists and advance preparation improve research results  Why community history matters as much as individual records Topics Covered The limits of online genealogy databases  Researching letters, manuscripts, minutes, and special collections  Prioritizing repositories by time period, topic, and community relevance  Using AI tools to build realistic genealogy research itineraries  Why calling ahead and consulting archivists saves time  Detroit Public Library’s Burton Historical Collection  Labor archives and society minutes as sources of conflict and motivation  Ethnic community research and migration patterns  Common genealogy road trip mistakes  Avoiding unnecessary travel for records already available online Episode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen explains why many genealogy researchers reach a plateau when they rely only on searchable online databases. While digitized records provide access and convenience, they often miss the documents that explain why families moved, joined organizations, changed occupations, or became part of specific communities.Drawing from research experiences in Detroit and Ann Arbor, Kathleen discusses how repositories containing manuscripts, labor records, organizational minutes, and ethnic community collections can uncover motivations and social context absent from census and vital records. She also highlights the importance of preparation—using AI tools, targeted planning, and archivist guidance to make research trips more productive.The episode emphasizes that successful genealogy travel is not about visiting the largest number of libraries, but about identifying the repositories most connected to a family’s time period, occupation, migration path, or community network.Key questions examined include: What records are worth traveling to see in person?  How do community archives change genealogical conclusions?  Why do offline collections often explain migration and identity better than databases? Resources & Research Tools Mentioned Detroit Public Library Burton Historical Collection  Labor archives and organizational records  Manuscript collections and society minutes  Ethnic community archives  AI-assisted research itinerary planning  Archivist consultations and repository finding aids Why This Episode MattersGenealogy research often becomes more meaningful when researchers move beyond names and dates into the broader social world their ancestors inhabited. This eSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Episode OverviewHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, focusing on how place, movement, and records intersect. In this episode, host Kathleen Brandt speaks with Melissa Brown from the National Frontier Trails Museum about why Independence, Missouri became a primary jumping-off point for westward migration—and how that context changes real genealogy research.Together, they show how to move from family lore about “going west” to documented evidence using museum resources, diaries, historic maps, and the OCTA Paper Trail index.In This Episode, You’ll LearnWhy Independence, Missouri became a central departure point for multiple western trailsHow river landings and shifting routes affect where records and clues appearHow to use diaries, maps, and museum collections to verify migration storiesWhere the OCTA Paper Trail index fits into trail-based researchWhy preparation with census and other records improves on-site research resultsTopics CoveredThe five major trails interpreted in Independence and why the river mattersThe Santa Fe Trail as commerce and trade, not just settlementShifting river landings and movement toward Westport and beyondThe Merle J. Mattis Research Library: diaries, letters, maps, artifactsResearch appointments and how targeted requests save timeUsing OCTA’s Paper Trail index to search names in trail diariesPreparing with census and foundational records before archival visitsUsing historic maps to identify landowners, neighbors, and family connectionsThe diversity of people who traveled westFree admission, current Santa Fe programming, and family activitiesEpisode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen and Melissa explain how understanding place-based context—especially transportation routes and economic drivers—can transform vague migration stories into traceable research paths. Independence’s role as a convergence point for trails means that records may be scattered across local, regional, and trail-specific sources, not just standard census or vital records.Melissa outlines what researchers can expect from the Merle J. Mattis Research Library, including firsthand accounts and material culture that provide context often missing from official documents. The conversation also emphasizes preparation before archival visits, showing how prior work in census and other records allows researchers to ask more precise questions and locate relevant materials faster.Key questions examined include:How do trail routes and river access shape where records are found?What sources move a family story from tradition to evidence?How can researchers use maps and diaries together to confirm identity and movement?Resources & Research Tools MentionedMerle J. Mattis Research Library (National Frontier Trails Museum)OCTA (Oregon-California Trails Association) Paper Trail indexHistoric maps and plat mapsTrail diaries and letter collectionsCensus and foundational records for research preparationWhy This Episode MattersWestward migration is often reduced to broad narratives, but real genealogy depends on specific routes, locations, and records. This episode shows how understanding trail systems and using targeted research tools can convert family stories into verifiable history.About the PodcastHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping listeners connect place, records, and historSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Episode OverviewHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, exploring how overlooked sources reveal deeper family stories. In this episode, host Kathleen Brandt speaks with diary collector and history writer Angie Rodesky about how journals, letters, and personal writings provide granular clues for genealogy and local history research.Together, they explore how diaries expand your understanding of an ancestor’s world—and why preserving complete records matters for future research.In This Episode, You’ll LearnHow diaries and letters reveal details not found in official recordsWhy different types of diaries offer different research valueWhere to find personal writings beyond common marketplacesHow to organize names, dates, and events from narrative sourcesWhy preserving original materials is critical for historical accuracyTopics CoveredAngie Rodesky’s path from writer’s block to diary collectingTypes of diaries and what each can revealDiaries as tools for one-place studies and community contextFinding diaries and family “lots” beyond eBayThe risks of dismantling originals for “junk journals”Digitizing options, including the Midwest Genealogy Center Memory LabOrganizing research with charts, timelines, and spreadsheetsResearch mindset: curiosity and following leadsEpisode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen and Angie discuss how personal writings—often overlooked—can transform genealogy research by adding context, emotion, and daily detail to otherwise sparse records. Diaries and letters reveal relationships, routines, and events that rarely appear in official documents.Angie shares how she began collecting diaries and the different types researchers may encounter, from daily logs to reflective journals. The conversation highlights how these materials support one-place studies, helping researchers reconstruct entire communities rather than isolated individuals.The episode also addresses preservation concerns, including the growing trend of dismantling historical documents for craft purposes. Kathleen and Angie emphasize the importance of maintaining intact records and explore digitization options such as the Midwest Genealogy Center Memory Lab.Key questions examined include:What kinds of clues do diaries provide that records do not?Where can researchers find personal writings outside traditional archives?How should genealogists balance access with preservation?Resources & Research Tools MentionedPersonal diaries and letter collectionsLocal archives and historical societiesMidwest Genealogy Center Memory Lab (digitization tools)Charts, timelines, and spreadsheets for organizing dataWhy This Episode MattersPersonal writings bring depth and humanity to genealogy. This episode shows how diaries and letters expand research beyond names and dates—revealing the lived experiences, relationships, and environments that shaped your ancestors’ lives.About the PodcastHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping listeners uncover deeper meaning in records, places, and historical context.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!SHOW NOTE UPDATE: We would like to thank one of our listeners from Oakland, California for submitting the following clarification:"Puerto Ricans who live on the island can’t vote in federal elections as set forth in the U.S. Constitution. Consequently, they do not have full representation in Congress."For Clarification:The United States Constitution does not explicitly say “Puerto Ricans cannot vote.” Instead: Presidential elections are determined through the Electoral College, which is tied to states (and, via amendment, Washington, D.C.), not territories.  Congressional representation is likewise structured around states, not territories.Residents of Puerto Rico cannot vote in presidential elections despite being U.S. citizens.Puerto Ricans can vote in federal elections if they live in one of the 50 states or Washington, D.C. and are registered voters.Registering to vote in Puerto Rico requires the individual to be a U.S. citizen and is a resident of the island.Sources: LegalClarity, Puerto Rico Territory Authority, Thoughtco.comEpisode OverviewHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, focusing on how law, place, and history shape the records we rely on. In this episode, host Kathleen Brandt breaks down what “territory” really means in a genealogical context—and why your ancestor’s rights, status, and documentation can change overnight when laws change.Using examples from Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the Philippines, this episode explains how legal status determines where records are kept, what rights were granted, and why incorrect assumptions often create genealogy brick walls.In This Episode, You’ll LearnWhat “territory” means and how it differs from colony status in recordsWhy citizenship status affects where and how records were createdHow legal changes alter the paper trail across generationsWhere to find records across federal, territorial, and local systemsWhy assumptions about U.S. affiliation often lead to research errorsTopics CoveredColony vs. territory definitions and their impact on record trailsPuerto Rico citizenship after 1917 and where to research before that dateKey inhabited U.S. territories for genealogy researchU.S. citizen vs. U.S. national distinctionsRecord locations: federal archives, territorial archives, naval records, church registers, civil registrationGuam’s citizenship timeline and unequal territorial treatmentMilitary service and draft records vs. proof of citizenshipCommon research mistakes tied to legal assumptionsUsing FamilySearch as a catalog and checklist toolEpisode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen explores how the concept of “territory” is often misunderstood in genealogy, leading researchers to expect records and rights that did not exist at the time. She demonstrates how shifts in legal status—especially under U.S. governance—can dramatically alter what records were created, where they are stored, and how individuals were classified.The episode highlights case examples from Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the Philippines to show how citizenship, nationality, and governance differed across regions. Kathleen also explains why military service or draft registration does not automatically prove citizenship, and why careful interpretation of legal context is essential.A key takeaway is the importance of abandoning assumptions—particularly the belief that being “under the U.S. flag” guarantees uniform rights or record systems. Instead, researchers must follow the legal framework in place at the time their ancestors lived.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Episode OverviewHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, with a focus on clear reasoning, historical context, and practical research methods. In this episode, Kathleen and John Brandt sit down with guest Chelsea Clarke from the Midwest Genealogy Center to explore how a free, do-it-yourself Memory Lab helps families preserve and digitize their personal archives.From VHS tapes and cassette recordings to slides, photographs, film reels, and even floppy disks, Chelsea explains how the Memory Lab allows patrons to convert aging media into digital files. The conversation covers real-time capture, planning digitization sessions, storage decisions, and how these tools help communities preserve family stories before fragile media is lost.In This Episode, You’ll Learn• What the Memory Lab is and how to reserve time to use it • What formats can be digitized, including video, audio, photos, slides, and negatives • Why many formats require real-time capture and how to plan multi-slot sessions • How to think about file sizes, storage options, and potential cloud limitations • What quality expectations to have when working with aging media • How library staff help patrons inspect, prepare, and capture their materialsTopics Covered• Digitizing VHS tapes, film reels, cassettes, photos, slides, and negatives • Batch scanning photographs and converting legacy media formats • Transferring data from 3.5-inch floppy disks • Overhead scanning tools and storytelling features such as VividPix narration • File management, storage choices, and digital preservation considerations • Access, equity, and the community value of public digitization resources • A local project highlight involving tracing ancestors and birth recordsEpisode Discussion & Key MomentsChelsea explains how the Memory Lab at the Midwest Genealogy Center gives community members access to professional-grade digitization equipment without the cost of private services. Patrons can bring their own tapes, photos, slides, negatives, and disks and convert them to digital formats using specialized equipment while receiving guidance from knowledgeable staff.The conversation also highlights the realities of digitization: many analog formats must be captured in real time, file sizes can grow quickly, and planning storage ahead of a session is essential. Kathleen and John explore how these tools support not only preservation but storytelling—helping families transform fragile recordings and images into lasting digital archives.Key questions examined include:• What should researchers bring to a Memory Lab appointment? • How can families plan ahead when digitizing large collections? • What risks do aging tapes, slides, and disks pose if not preserved soon?Why This Episode MattersCountless family histories remain trapped on fragile analog media that deteriorates over time. This episode highlights how accessible community tools—like library Memory Labs—make it possible for anyone to preserve recordings, photographs, and documents before they disappear.About the PodcastHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is hosted by Kathleen and John Brandt and helps listeners turn scattered historical records into meaningful family narratives using modern research tools and practical methodology.Subscribe & ConnectDo you have a genealogical question for Kathleen? Email: [email protected] more about the Midwest Genealogy Center and the Memory Lab: https://www.mymcpl.org/genealogyMemory Lab contact: [email protected] the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!#oneplacestudy #genealogy #genealogybasics Hittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, with a focus on clear reasoning, historical context, and practical research methods. In this episode, Kathleen and John Brandt are joined by guest Denise Cross to explore how a one-place study transforms scattered historical records into a working model of a town—and how that model can be used to solve difficult genealogy problems.Denise shares practical methods for defining research scope, mapping census visitation routes to historical land parcels, and linking neighbors, deeds, taxes, wills, church, and newspaper records to uncover relationships that traditional research approaches often miss.In This Episode, You’ll Learn• How to define a one-place study and choose a manageable scope • How to build a full-town research spreadsheet using census, deeds, probate, church, tax, and newspaper records • How neighbors and associates can help identify missing women in the historical record • How to map census visitation order to historical parcel maps • How to research frontier communities using indirect evidence • How place-based research supports surname studies and resolves endogamy challengesTopics Covered• One-place studies as a genealogy research method • Linking community networks to uncover family relationships • Mapping households to land ownership and movement • Frontier research with limited records • Endogamy and surname studies through place context • Registering and sharing one-place studies on WikiTree and research directories • Resources, webinars, and collaboration strategiesEpisode Discussion & Key MomentsDenise explains how building a place-based research framework allows genealogists to move beyond individual ancestors and instead understand entire communities. By organizing census, tax, probate, land, and church records into a town-level model, researchers can identify patterns, relationships, and identity clues that would otherwise remain hidden.The conversation also highlights how mapping census routes to historical land parcels helps clarify neighbor relationships, track movement over time, and provide indirect evidence—especially in frontier eras or communities with thin documentation.Key questions examined include:• How can a one-place study help solve identity problems? • What role do neighbors and associates play in genealogical proof? • How do researchers work effectively in communities with limited documentation?Why This Episode MattersWhen records are incomplete or identities unclear, understanding the place can be just as important as understanding the person. This episode demonstrates how community-level research strengthens genealogical conclusions and supports evidence-based reasoning.About the PodcastHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is hosted by Kathleen and John Brandt and helps listeners turn scattered historical records into meaningful family narratives using modern research tools and practical methodology.Subscribe & ConnectVisit https://hittinthebrickswithkathleen.buzzsprout.com for more episodes and resources.Do you have a genealogical question for Kathleen? Email: [email protected]’ the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit 501(c)(3) TracingAncestors.org.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Episode OverviewHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, focusing on clear reasoning, historical context, and practical research methods. In this episode, host Kathleen Brandt unpacks the growing buzz around the term “quantum genealogy,” explaining why it functions as a metaphor rather than a research method—and why real genealogical breakthroughs still depend on careful human analysis.The episode examines how DNA evidence, overlapping matches, and complex family structures can feel uncertain or contradictory, while clarifying where computing tools help—and where they do not decide conclusions.In This Episode, You’ll LearnWhat people usually mean when they say “quantum” in a genealogy contextWhy quantum computing does not change biological inheritance or kinshipHow new evidence requires reanalysis and revised conclusionsWhere DNA tools assist research and where human judgment remains essentialWhy buzzwords can obscure, rather than clarify, good genealogical practiceTopics Covered“Quantum genealogy” as a metaphor for uncertainty and overlapThe limits of quantum computing in genealogical researchOverlapping DNA matches and shared ancestryComplexities in African American genealogy, including endogamyBlood quantum basics and its role in tribal enrollmentInterpretation, context, and evidence-based reasoningCommunity conversation at the Nelson-Atkins Museum (Kansas City)Episode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen breaks down how the term “quantum genealogy” has entered popular conversation and why it can be misleading when treated as a method rather than a metaphor. She explains that while computing power can accelerate comparison and sorting of data, it does not alter the realities of inheritance, kinship, or historical context.The episode also addresses challenging areas of research, including African American genealogy, where overlapping DNA matches, endogamy, and incomplete records demand especially careful interpretation. Kathleen clarifies the role—and limits—of blood quantum, emphasizing why legal or enrollment definitions should not be confused with genealogical proof.Key questions examined include:Why does DNA evidence sometimes seem contradictory?How should researchers respond when new evidence changes earlier conclusions?What role should technology play versus human reasoning?Events & Community ConversationCommunity discussion at the Nelson-Atkins Museum, Kansas CityFree event; light refreshments servedWhy This Episode MattersAs genealogy tools grow more powerful, this episode reinforces a critical principle: technology assists research, but interpretation belongs to people. Clear thinking, context, and evidence—not buzzwords—remain the foundation of sound genealogical conclusions.About the PodcastHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is the genealogy podcast that features your questions and her answers, helping listeners navigate complex evidence, historical nuance, and modern research tools with clarity and confidence.Subscribe & ConnectSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Episode OverviewHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is a podcast focused on genealogy, local history, and practical methods for turning scattered records into meaningful family narratives. In this episode, host Kathleen Brandt shifts the focus from collecting as many names as possible to building one strong ancestral branch by revisiting familiar records with sharper questions and better research tools.Using the guiding principle “one ancestor, one record, three questions,” this episode demonstrates how focused analysis can transform disconnected documents into a coherent and readable life story.In This Episode, You’ll LearnWhy choosing a single ancestor can accelerate genealogical breakthroughsHow focusing on one record group reveals deeper patterns and inconsistenciesWhat three questions to ask of every document you findHow timelines, checklists, and re-reading notes expose overlooked cluesWays to turn raw data into stories your family can actually readTopics CoveredSelecting one ancestor to study for an extended periodFocusing on a single record group (pensions, land, or census)Asking new analytical questions of familiar documentsBuilding timelines and using simple research checklistsRe-reading old notes to surface missed detailsApplying the FAN method to track friends, associates, and neighborsTranslating research data into narrative formCase study: James Nelson Strader and Civil War pension recordsSetting monthly research goals and sharing progressEpisode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen explains how genealogists often stall by spreading their efforts too thin across many names. By intentionally narrowing the scope to one ancestor at a time, researchers can ask better questions and recognize patterns that are invisible in broad family trees.The episode walks through practical techniques such as building timelines, using checklists, and applying the FAN method to witnesses and neighbors. Kathleen also revisits the value of re-reading old research notes, demonstrating how previously overlooked clues can emerge when viewed through a new analytical lens.A detailed case study of James Nelson Strader illustrates how Civil War pension records can be mined repeatedly to reconstruct a fuller, more accurate life story.Key questions examined include:What changes when you focus on depth instead of breadth?How can a single record group support long-term research?What makes genealogical work understandable to non-researchers?Resources & Research Tools MentionedCivil War pension filesCensus, land, and pension record groupsFAN (Friends, Associates, Neighbors) methodResearch timelines and checklistsWhy This Episode MattersThis episode encourages a sustainable and disciplined approach to genealogy—one that prioritizes understanding over accumulation. By focusing deeply on one ancestor, researchers can create accurate, readable histories that preserve meaning for future generations, not just data.About the PodcastHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen helps listeners break through genealogy brick walls by combining historical context, practical research strategies, and storytelling techniques that bring ancestors’ lives into focus.Subscribe & ConnectHave a genealogical question for Kathleen? Email [email protected] the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Episode OverviewHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen is a podcast centered on genealogy, local history, and understanding how large historical events leave long shadows in family records. In this episode, host Kathleen Brandt examines how the French and Indian War (1754–1763) created ripple effects that appear decades later as mystery migrations, unexpected pensions, and land grants that confuse modern researchers.This episode focuses on how early military service, shifting alliances, and uneven record-keeping before the American Revolution shaped family trees in ways that are often misattributed or overlooked.In This Episode, You’ll LearnWhy the French and Indian War explains many unexplained family movementsHow service records before 1775 differ from Revolutionary War documentationThe distinctions between provincial troops, militias, and British regularsWhere to find overlooked military and civil records tied to early serviceHow land grants and pensions often trace back to this earlier conflictTopics CoveredFrench and Indian War timeline and geographic scopeFragmented colonial record-keeping before 1775Provincial troops vs. militia vs. British regular forcesNative nations as military allies and the unequal rewards they receivedAfrican American service, injury, and paths to manumissionMuster rolls, pay lists, council minutes, and court recordsGeorge Washington’s papers as an early name indexBounty land in Virginia and North CarolinaInterpreting Revolutionary War pension filesPopulation movement before formal paperwork existsEpisode Discussion & Key MomentsKathleen traces how the French and Indian War laid the groundwork for later political revolution while quietly reshaping families across colonial America. She explains why records from this period often appear scattered, incomplete, or indirect—and why researchers must widen their search beyond standard military files.The episode breaks down practical strategies for locating provincial troop records, militia references, council decisions, and court mentions, as well as how to use George Washington’s papers as a gateway to otherwise hidden names. Kathleen also addresses how Native nations and African Americans participated in the conflict, often receiving delayed, unequal, or poorly documented compensation.Key questions examined include:Why do some ancestors appear to surface suddenly in Revolutionary records?How did earlier wars move families long before pensions or land grants were issued?What kinds of documents quietly preserve evidence of service?Resources & Research Starting PointsProvincial troop muster rolls and pay listsColonial council and court minutesGeorge Washington’s papersVirginia and North Carolina bounty land recordsRevolutionary War pension files (read every page)Why This Episode MattersMany genealogical puzzles attributed to the American Revolution actually begin earlier. Understanding the French and Indian War helps researchers correctly interpret migration, land ownership, military service, and delayed benefits—allowing family histories to be reconstructed with greater accuracy and context.About the PodcastHittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen explores how history, place, and records intersect—revealing how everyday documents and overlooked conflicts shape generations of family stories.Subscribe & ConnectSubscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major platformsBookmark: linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for episodes and resoSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!We share how to research suspected ties between family history and serial killers, balancing DNA with records and community context.Check out: killer.cloudDo you have a genealogical question for Kathleen? Drop us a line at hitting the bricks at gmail.com and Let us know.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Your December gift helps us preserve truth, honor ancestors, and teach the next generation. www.tracingancestors.orgSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!We close the loop on the life of Civil War Veteran Joseph Chedester, whose ashes were left unburied for a century and whose honors finally reached his second great-granddaughters.The Final SaluteThe Eternal Valor Network, a Tracing Ancestors Project (501c3)Original Final Salute, Des Moines Oct 2024; Kathleen Receiving Veteran Chedester's burial flag for unknown familyFull Video 14 Nov 2025,  KCCI 9 News, Iowa, Ben KaplanHonoring Iowa VeteransDescendants Found and Burial Flag Passed to FamilySupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!We celebrate American Archives Month with ways to get more treats than tricks when using using national, state, and local archives on your brick wall. This episode is a celebration of the archivists, collections and forgotten files that keep our family histories alive.Do you have genealogical questions for Kathleen? Drop us a line at hitting the bricks at gmail.com and let us knowSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!We unpack how end of life records like probate, wills and testaments can be the undoing of even the most stubborn brickwall.Stacey Janssen and Jeremy Keel of Janssen Estate Probate & Elder Law demystify the legal jargon of wills, probate and guardian records.Do you have a genealogical question for Kathleen? Drop us a line at hitting the bricks at gmail.com and let us know.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!School records dating back to the 1700s can break through genealogical brick walls by providing detailed information about individuals and families that may not exist in other historical documents.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Emily Wildhaber from Midwest Genealogy Center joins us to discuss their "Tell Me a Story" program that preserves family stories through oral history. For more information visit:Tell Me a Story from Mid-West Genealogy CenterSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Hittin' the Bricks welcomes Lauri Jean Swett and Ashley Arnett to discuss the upcoming Genealogy KC conference on August 23, 2025.Listen in as Lauri Jean and Ashley share topics and more about this free hybrid event. Registration: genealogykc.org Lauri Jean SwettGenealogy by Lauri JeanSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Michelle Spencer, the family business researcher, shares details about the upcoming Missouri State Genealogical Association (MOSGA) conference on August 8-9.MoSGA Conference:Register at mosga.org for the conference on August 8-9 at the Missouri State Archives in Jefferson City.Registration is just $55 for non-members, $50 for members.https://www.mosga.org/Check out Michelle's business:Combines genealogical expertise with historical context, particularly focused on family business research.RomaMaryGrace :  https://romamarygrace.com/Youtube: @romamarygrace1909Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Medical mysteries lurking in your family tree might hold the key to understanding sudden disappearances, unexplained relocations, or clusters of deaths among your ancestors. When traditional genealogy methods hit a wall, epidemic research could breakthrough those brick walls.Ready to uncover the medical history hiding in your family tree? Email [email protected] to request one of our DNA test kit giveaways (Free pickup in Kansas City or $10 shipping elsewhere in the USA) and start building a more complete picture of your ancestors' lives and challenges.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Ever wondered what secrets your German ancestors might be hiding? You're not alone. 44 million Americans claim German heritage, making Germans the largest immigrant group in United States history.Join us with expert Sue Schlichting, founder of Pursuing Your Past, for tips and resources to uncover your German ancestors. Pursuing Your PastFamilySearch Research Wiki#germangenealogy #midwest #Lindsborg #Volhynian #Germans #kansasSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Listen in as we speak with Angela Hagenbach and Vincent Bell about keeping Weston MO, history alive.FREE EVENTThe 5th Annual Juneteenth Heritage Jubilee will be held on June 14th at Weston Red Barn FarmThe BAAC sponsors projects including a Black Heritage mural, monuments, and the annual Juneteenth Heritage JubileeFounded by Angela Haggenbach, the Black Ancestors Awareness Campaign uncovers the rich and obscured African American history of Weston, Missouri.Jazz KC Portraits by Dan White sponsored by the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum, May 22 - December 30, 2025To learn more or get involved with the Black Ancestors Awareness Campaign, visit baacweston.org or email Vincent Bell at: [email protected] the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Unlock the secrets of forensic genealogy in this episode of Hittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen! Genealogist Julie Whittaker specializes in military repatriation, mineral rights, and the legal complexities that shape this growing field.Whether you're curious about how forensic genealogy solves cold cases, supports legal claims, or connects families to long-lost ancestors, Julie shares real-world insights from her work with attorneys, specialized projects, and beyond.Thinking about becoming a forensic genealogist or just want to understand what it really takes? This episode offers expert tips, powerful stories, and a look behind the scenes of one of genealogy’s most fascinating careers.Here are some helpful links.Website for Julie: https://genealogysafari.com/The Council for the Advancement of Forensic Genealogy (CAFG) https://www.forensicgenealogists.org/Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency: https://www.dpaa.mil/If you have genealogical questions for Kathleen, drop us a line at [email protected] Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Are you underutilizing Tax Records?Tax records offer genealogists a treasure trove of information beyond just confirming where ancestors lived. They reveal financial circumstances, family relationships, and even marriage dates. They provide us with associates, lifestyles, and community. Tax Records are a key resource to leaping over that Brickwall.Heather Jenkins, president of the Johnson County Genealogical Society and Heartland Chapter of APG, specializes in tax record research. She shares with the Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen Team, about obscure laws that shaped your ancestor's decisions.• Tax records connect to all aspects of life including birth, death, marriage, and property ownership•  Examining tax records can reveal an ancestor's true financial status, often showing apparent wealth hiding significant debtFind Heather Jenkins at: https://balancedgenealogy.comEmail your genealogical questions to [email protected] the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Revolutionary War research presents unique genealogical challenges, as records are scattered across multiple countries and unconventional sources. Kathleen answers audience questions from her recent presentation, explaining why ancestors vanish from Revolutionary War records.For presentation handouts and slides from Kathleen's April 12th presentation "From Muskets to Manuscripts," visit linktr.ee/hittinthebricksSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Most family trees contain unexpected branches, but few conversations address the complex relationship between Irish American and African American heritage as candidly as our latest episode. a3Geanealogy blogSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!The stories of our female ancestors are often stripped down to the simplest narratives – they were farm wives, mothers, teachers – but beneath these sanitized descriptions lie complex lives filled with surprising choices, passionate relationships, and occasionally scandalous secrets. Join Kathleen and John as they peel back the layers of family folklore to reveal the true stories of the women who came before us.The women were secretive, the documents were not!Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Join us with Glenn North, Director of Inclusive Learning and Creative Impact at the Museum of Kansas City, as we talk about the vital connection between art, history, and social justice. Visit Glenn's site at: https://www.glennnorthpoetry.com/Lynch Family by Joseph Hirschhttps://art.nelson-atkins.org/objects/24036/lynch-familySupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Unlock the secrets of your ancestry with Sherri Camp, our featured genealogy librarian from the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library. Join us as Sherri takes us on her remarkable journey through the world of genealogy and discover the invaluable resources available at the library, including the family history collections.Resources Cited:The Topeka & Shawnee County Public Libraryhttps://tscpl.org/Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Societyhttps://www.aahgs.org/Kansas Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Societyhttp://www.kaahgs.org/African American Topekaby Sherrita Camp https://a.co/d/aY0j8sTBlack Profiles in Courage: A Legacy of African-American AchievementKareem Abdul-Jabbar and Alan Steinberg: https://a.co/d/6fqL0hESupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Unlock the secrets of turning your family's rich history into a dynamic digital treasure trove with the help of Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing. Discover how digital publishing not only facilitates easy distribution but also creates a lasting resource for family reunions.1. Prepare Your Book for Publishing2. Publish via Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)3. Choose Distribution Settings4. Set Your Pricing5. Share the Book with Your Family6. Gifting Copiesorder copies of your book at the author's cost (for print books) send gift copies of the Kindle versionFor Document conversions:Website: https://calibre-ebook.com/Related Blogs:"Reads over Royalties""EPUB with InDesign, Page Breaks""Secrets with the Trees" by John A BrandtSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!In this genealogy podcast episode, we discuss the significance of presidential libraries for genealogical research as part of our 2025 Presidential Library series. These libraries are an underutilized resource for genealogical projects, and Kathleen has uncovered dozens of ancestral documents for clients using them.Kathleen also shares tips and tools for tackling genealogy brick walls and researching common surnames. For one client, she navigated the challenges of researching the surnames North, Hams, and Heard.As always, we’re excited to share a helpful genealogical tool. Have you tried the libcat.familysearch.org catalog? This powerful tool can fast-track your brick wall research and even help you bypass calls to the courthouse. Just sign in with your familysearch.org username/password.If you’re unfamiliar with FamilySearch, signing up for free access is simple—no credit card required, just a username and password.Let’s take a moment to thank FamilySearch for digitizing and freely sharing their invaluable resources!Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Prepare to be inspired as we feature the illustrious genealogist Amy Johnson Crowe on "Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen." Discover how Amy's knack for uncovering family histories has influenced countless enthusiasts, including our host Kathleen herself. Embark on a journey through the innovative "52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks" program that champions genealogical exploration through weekly prompts. Website: https://www.amyjohnsoncrow.com/52-ancestors-in-52-weeks-new/Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Check out this Link: Eternal Veteran Network -What Impact Will This Donation Have?What if the holiday season is just a lens into a richer, more complex history? Kathleen and I share heartfelt gratitude to all our listeners. We reminisce about the laughs, learning, and connections formed throughout our podcasting journey. This episode is not just about reflecting on what we've accomplished this year but also about looking forward to the exciting giveaways and surprises we have in store for you as a token of our appreciation.We're also thrilled to introduce the Eternal Valor Network, an initiative by Tracing Ancestors dedicated to uniting community organizations that make it their mission to honor "forgotten veterans." Join us as we celebrate this passion project and the friendships we've cultivated along the way. As we wrap up this year, we look forward to the new adventures and stories that lie ahead in our journey.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Discover the hidden stories of African American history in Missouri with our passionate guests, Michelle Cook and Riley Sutherland from the Salus Populi Project. Michelle and Riley are on a mission to bring to light the overlooked narratives of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) and unmarked African American burials in Missouri. With Michelle's storytelling prowess and Riley's academic insights from Harvard, they reveal the power of pension records in reconstructing entire communities and personal histories, all while bridging significant gaps in historical knowledge.Join us as we explore the untapped potential of pension records and their role in uncovering rich historical narratives. By sharing these stories, we empower descendant researchers and shine a light on individual contributions during pivotal events like the Civil War. Michelle and Riley's work underscores the transformative impact of making these hidden documents available to the public, fostering a deeper understanding of the past.Groups like Salus Populi and the Eternal Valor Network are making history an interactive experience, connecting past with present through genealogy and archival research. If you wish to participate in the Salus Populi Project contact Michelle or Riley: Salus Populi Project.   Oh..and follow them on social media!Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!The October Mailbag: Naval Veteran Research and Heritage MonthJourney through the National Archives with us as we highlight the distinctions between researching Navy records and other branches. Let's celebrate in October:  Family History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month and  Naval Research. Family History Month ResourcesFamily Search 31 October celebrations ideas National Genealogical Society and Brain HealthLibrary of CongressSeptember / October Newsletter Hispanic Heritage Month8 Tips: Puerto Rican ResearchFamilySearch WikiThis episode promises a blend of history, humor, and celebrations.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Join us as we sit down with Sofia Stewart, a remarkable intern from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Sofia's journey began in a Russian orphanage and led her to Arkansas, where her deep-seated passion for sociology and understanding societal dynamics took root. Through her work at Tracing Ancestors, backed by the Mellon Grant program, Sofia channels her background into grant writing and creatively designing promotional content, all while unveiling the profound importance of genealogy in shaping our stories.Ever wondered about the hidden narratives within your family tree? This episode promises a captivating exploration of Romani ancestry and the complexities of adoption. Sophia shares personal and historical insights, from the deportation of Romani people to Siberia to the traditional Russian naming patterns that link her to her roots. We dive into her family history, including the lives of her parents, Alex and Faina, and the significance of DNA in uncovering close relatives and piecing together her adoption story. Tune in for a rich tapestry of identity, history, and the power of storytelling in genealogy.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!How would you feel if your loved one's ashes were left forgotten on a dusty shelf or found on the side of the road? In this episode of Hittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen, we unravel the journey of Lanae Strovers, a dedicated funeral director and trainer, who has found over 300 unclaimed urns. With great compassion and determination, Lanae is committed to giving these forgotten souls dignified burials. Joined by Dennis Allen a retired firefighter, and Cris Nagla, this trio has organized mass burials with overwhelming community support. Dennis and Cris run Avon Cementery of Des Moines, IA.Lanae has also partnered with the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel, IA. In this episode she shines a light on the powerful ceremonies held to honor unclaimed veterans in Iowa. Host Kathleen Brandt, will be participating in the upcoming Final Salute 27 ceremony Sep 2024. Learn more about this public event at The Final Salute (FB page). The movie based on a live story can be found on Tubi or Prime Video. Use link below: Chasing the Dead RequiemCan't make it in person: Feed Event We invite you to stay connected for more inspiring stories and submit your genealogical questions. Subscribe at linktr.ee/hittinthebricksSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Imagine uncovering hidden athletic gems within your own family tree! This episode of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen promises just that, as we celebrate the achievements of our ancestors from the amateur, collegient, professional, or Olympian athlete.Did your ancestor face challenges like gender or racial discrimination?  Or did a military draft or War outbreak squash your ancestors athletic dreams. This episode offers valuable tips on tracing your family's sports history to include pioneering women and African American athletes. Read More Tracing College & Professional AthletesSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Part 2 of our interview with David W. Jackson dives deeper into the creation and distribution of your Do It Yourself Genealogy Book."My Jackson family identified as Caucasian for the last five generations, but after 30 years of genealogical research I rediscovered a family secret. My great-great-grandfather, Arthur Jackson, was born an African-American slave in Virginia in 1856."David W. Jackson, founder of the Orderly Pack Rat and author of "Born a Slave," reveals the hidden chapters of his family's past. He has written or contributed to over 60 titles. David shares his unique strategies for structuring his book, the importance of timelines, and the breakthroughs achieved through "cluster research."Get an insider's perspective on the world of self-publishing as David provides invaluable tips on managing citations, the nuances between self-publishing and traditional publishing, and the challenges of promoting one's work. Learn about his experiences with Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).David W. Jacksondavid.jackson@orderlypackrat.comorderlypackrat.weebly.comSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!"My Jackson family identified as Caucasian for the last five generations, but after 30 years of genealogical research I rediscovered a family secret. My great-great-grandfather, Arthur Jackson, was born an African-American slave in Virginia in 1856." David W. Jackson, founder of the Orderly Pack Rat and author of "Born a Slave," reveals the hidden chapters of his family's past. He has written or contributed to over 60 titles. David shares his unique strategies for structuring his book, the importance of timelines, and the breakthroughs achieved through "cluster research."Get an insider's perspective on the world of self-publishing as David provides invaluable tips on managing citations, the nuances between self-publishing and traditional publishing, and the challenges of promoting one's work. Learn about his experiences with Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).David W. Jacksondavid.jackson@orderlypackrat.comorderlypackrat.weebly.comSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!June is a busy month!We start by celebrating Pride Month and ourJune Newsletter,  Secret's Revealed,  that gives hints on researching your ancestors' secrets.   One of our best historical secrets held from textbooks takes us to  Southern Claims Commission, where ex-slaves and free coloreds joined enslavers to navigate the complexities of Civil War property claims. Were your ancestors  named in these underutilized documents? Now that's a way to celebrate Juneteenth!Speaking of secrets, we uncover one held by FamilytreeDNA. Their policies are muddied by an unannounced policy change . Find out which policy has been proven not to be honored on FamilyTreeDNA. Join us on Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen as we tackle genealogical and ethical secrets  uncovered.  Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!In this episode, we answer inquiries from the HTB Mailbag.  Are you relying on online resources and phone communication to conduct remote research? Kathleen offers some tips to effectively communicate with repositories when conducting remote research. Are there strategies or resources to explore in order to successfully access newspaper publications that have not yet been digitized without traveling? Are you prepared to hand off your genealogical quest to an overseas researcher? Kathleen offers a framework of what's needed to uncover your immigrant ancestor's story using a professional overseas researcher.Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Let's get techy with the latest Artificial intelligence tool from FamilySearch that's rewriting the rules on historical record-sleuthing.Plus,  family reunion planning; mistakes made & lessons learned. Keep those genealogy questions coming!Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Have you ever peered into your family tree and found a story that's tangled, moving, and a little surprising? That's exactly what Kathleen and I discuss in our latest podcast episode.Kathleen answers two emails on air from the HTB Mailbag:1.  A compelling case is presented where a man seeks to understand his uncle's paternity, bringing to light the sensitive nature of uncovering hidden truths within our lineage. 2. A question on the ethics of genealogy research, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and honest cost transparency. Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!We kick off Season 4 of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen covering military research at the National Archives, St. Louis with Lori Berdak Miller of Redbird Research. What if your ancestor's military personnel records were lost in the 1973  Fire?  Lori gives hints on reconstructing these lost records.Her passion as a document retriever and military researcher shines through as she shares her finds within these military archival records. Contact Lori at Redbird ResearchSupport the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org. 

Let us know what you think!Is Black and White genealogy research different?John dropped by the office to have a chat with Kathleen.  It gets personal!linktr.ee/hittinthebricks Support the showBe sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks  for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: @HTBKRB with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials. Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.