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Researching Impoverished Ancestors in North America (On Demand)

Presented by Lindsay Fulton and Ann Lawthers
Original broadcasts: June 2023

Many of our ancestors came from humble beginnings, faced periods of economic hardship, or spent most of their lives in poverty. Due to their socio-economic status, they may not appear in typical records such as deed transactions, probate records, or tax lists. There are, however, specialized records and research strategies to assist in tracing your economically disenfranchised ancestors. In this three-session seminar, experts Lindsay Fulton and Ann G. Lawthers will discuss the welfare systems in North America from colonial times through the early 20th century, demonstrate how to navigate records and collections, and provide practical research strategies for finding your impoverished ancestors.

This course includes exclusive access to three 90-minute lecture recordings and handouts.

Once you complete your registration, you will receive an email with a link to the course page. You can also access this page under “My Account”> “Digital Content.” You will have access to course materials for the foreseeable future.

COURSE TOPICS

Class 1: A Community Responsibility: Taking Care of the Poor
Presented by Ann Lawthers

Our colonial ancestors considered it their duty to take care of their less fortunate neighbors. In this session learn how attitudes toward poverty and misfortune were shaped by English laws and customs and carried to North America. Learn how colonial communities adapted care giving systems to suit their circumstances and find out what records may have the name of your poor ancestor.

Class 2: Cries for Reform: Quincy and Yates Reports
Presented by Ann Lawthers

This session examines the changes in attitudes and systems for giving care from the late 18th century until about 1850, including the growth of institutions such as the poorhouse and county farm. After an overview of historical context, including the shift in funding to greater federal role in financing, this session identifies the new types of delivery systems and the associated records and where to find them for your poor ancestor.

Class 3: Growth of Organized Settings: Systems of Care from 1850 Forward
Presented by Lindsay Fulton

Orphan trains sprang up in response to large numbers of orphaned children living in the streets of major cities. Large institutions such as orphanages gained prominence as did institutions for the mentally ill. Learn about forces influencing these changes and influencing the development of the care delivery systems. And of course, what records were generated and where to find them for your poor ancestor.

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