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The Secret History of Institutions and Institutionalization in America, 1880–1960 

An Online Conversation Course with genealogist Lindsay Fulton, journalist-author Pam Fessler, and Alex Green, advocate and professor, Harvard Kennedy School. Moderator: Bill Griffeth, author and retired newscaster 

Many of us have seen the impact of institutions and institutionalizations in our family history research. We’ve encountered the remarkable, often shocking stories of our relatives, or seen family trees shaped by encounters with these once-prevalent residences and their restrictive policies. In this enlightening conversation course, our panel of experts will reveal the practices of institutions in our country from 1880–1960, in homes for women, the mentally and physically ill, patients with leprosy, and others deemed unfit for society. The trio will share the latest techniques for finding the facts behind these institutions and provide updates on the ever-changing legal guidelines for accessing institutional records. The panelists’ live discussion will be expertly moderated by NEHGS Honorary Trustee and retired newscaster Bill Griffeth author of the bestselling Stranger in My Genes and Strangers No More.  

Through a combination of instructive videos, educational resources, and a lively panel discussion, this unique course will help you unpack the fear, shame, and controversy of institutional care in America and give you the traction and tools you need to further your own family research.

This online seminar includes:  

• Exclusive access to more than two hours’ worth of instructive videos, recording of Q and A with panel of experts, plus downloaded slides, handouts, and other educational materials.
• Access to all course materials and unlimited replay of all videos

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