Family History: Wedding Research and Juneteenth 

June Weddings

“Oh they say when you marry in June, you’re a bride all your life,” is the line from Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (an excellent family fun film, by the way). June seems to be the time of, if not the wedding itself, then the planning of it. Invitations, decorations, Hallmark channel research, making the in-laws mad, color matching, temple and other venue scheduling, catering, and the list doesn’t seem to want to end. June is also an excellent month to research other weddings, ancestral ones. 

Family History Weddings

It took 1,024 people to create you if you’re looking at the most recent ten generations before you. That’s a lot of weddings, elopements, and the like. And every person has them. If not planning for an actual wedding, why not look up the past? Oftentimes there were announcements or posts in the newspaper, some photographs, and guest lists. Ask relatives about the ones they remember. Usually it’s something about the weather, but asking for more details can give you a fun picture of the past. 

Some activities you can do along with this include: 

1. Wedding Scrapbooking: find, print, and paste all the wedding pictures you can find into one place. You can also add side-detail information like their themes, the temple, etc. 

2. Vision Board: taking the general consensus of the weddings you examine, make a traditional family wedding based on all of the previous. Use pictures and words to illustrate what a “traditional” wedding in your family looks like. (This one would be especially fun for 10-12 year old girls). 

3. Collage: Find and print off all the wedding pictures of the couples you can find. Then cut and paste them together on a large piece of cardstock paper. 

4. ‘Guess who?’ Cards: create flip cards with pictures of the couple on the front, their names and wedding date on the back. These could easily become a memento to use at family weddings and receptions. Lamination is recommended. 

5. Heritage Wedding Map: mark where each relative was born and then connect the markings to where they were married. I imagine the bigger the map, the easier that would be to accomplish.

Juneteenth

Another aspect of June is the upcoming Juneteenth on June 19th. In Texas, slavery was officially abolished on that day and others have quickly adapted it as a national holiday against the abolishment of slavery in general. Perhaps, this would be a good month to do your family research on Civil War era happenings. Some were directly involved with the Civil War, some were immigrating still, and others were exploring and frontiering throughout the West.  

Some activities you can do along with this include: 

1. Create a timeline of family events from 1850 to 1890. 

2. Watch a Civil War-themed film such as The Red Badge of Courage. 

3. Map out the frontier during the Civil War era and any social events that happened. 

4. Read the Emancipation Proclamation by Abraham Lincoln. It’s worth the read. 

5. Create a slideshow depicting any known photographs in the family from between 1850 to 1890. 

Weddings, emancipation, frontier exploration, and family history can all be rolled in together like a giant cinnamon roll this June. Have fun!

Song of the Month

Calendar

Check the calendar  for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

June 15th | Closed for Father's Day

June 29th-July 5th |  Closed for Independence Day

 

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or of course, the blog! 

Facebook

Instagram

 Family History: A Bridge of Celebrations

May is a month chuck full of celebration, making it the perfect time to reflect on the importance of family history. From "May the 4th Be With You" to Cinco de Mayo and Memorial Day, each observance connects us to traditions, stories, and values passed down through generations.

Holiday 1

"May the 4th Be With You" started as a playful nod to Star Wars fans but has grown into a celebration of storytelling and legacy (and sometimes even blue milk at the grocery store). Just like the Skywalkers and Solos, our own families carry sagas filled with triumphs, struggles, and hope. Sharing these stories helps younger generations understand where they come from — and inspires them to dream about where they're going. 

Activities for May 4th:

• Create a "Family Galaxy" tree, mapping ancestors like a Star Wars family tree using stars or constellations. 

• Host a Star Wars-themed movie marathon with family trivia breaks that could relate to moments in the movie. Chewbacca Nobake cookies are also a great idea. 

• Make custom "family crest" shields inspired by Star Wars houses.

• Record a video where each family member tells their own "origin story." Feel free to dress in costume as well. 

• Dress up and do a photo shoot imagining your family in a galaxy far, far away. You can even edit out backgrounds or set up homemade backdrops, fans, and lights for fun special effects. 

Holiday 2

Cinco de Mayo, often misunderstood as Mexico’s Independence Day, actually commemorates the Mexican army's unlikely victory over France at the Battle of Puebla. It's a reminder of resilience, unity, and cultural pride. For families with Mexican heritage, it’s an opportunity to share tales of ancestors who stood strong in the face of adversity.

Activities for Cinco de Mayo:

• Cook a traditional family recipe together and talk about its history.

• Create a scrapbook highlighting Mexican heritage and family stories.

• Learn and perform a traditional Mexican dance together. Line dances are also festive. 

• Share family stories of immigration or cultural milestones.

• Host a "heritage showcase" where each family member presents a cultural craft or story.

Holiday 3

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the incredible women who nurture and shape our families. It’s also a moment to honor generations of mothers and grandmothers who passed down traditions, strength, and love. Family history lives strongly through the stories of mothers — the keepers of recipes, dreams, memories, and values.
Activities for Mother’s Day:

• Create a family "Mothers Through the Generations" photo collage.

• Record interviews with moms and grandmas sharing their favorite memories.

• Bake a special family recipe passed down by a mother or grandmother.

• Write letters of appreciation to mothers in your family history.

• Plant a garden together, dedicating it to the mothers in your family. 

Holiday 4

Later in the month, Memorial Day invites all Americans to pause and honor those who gave their lives in service to the nation. Many families have personal connections to military history, with loved ones who served in wars and conflicts. Sharing their stories — their courage, sacrifice, and dreams — keeps their memory alive and honors their place in the broader American story.

Activities for Memorial Day:

• Visit a cemetery or memorial and leave flowers in honor of veterans.

• Create a memory wall at home featuring photos and stories of family service members.

• Write letters to active-duty military members or veterans.

• Organize a family "history night" to share military service stories.

• Make a family timeline that highlights important moments of service and sacrifice.

Each of these days, in their unique way, encourages us to connect with our roots. Family history isn't just about names and dates; it's about the spirit, courage, and values that flow through us. As we celebrate, let's take time to listen, share, and preserve the legacies that continue to guide and inspire us.

Song of the Month

Coming This Summer

Calendar

Check the calendar  for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

May 8th Closed for Carpet Cleaning

May 11th Closed for Mother's Day

May 25-26th Closed for Memorial Day Weekend

 

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or of course, the blog! 

Facebook

Instagram

April Newsletter

 Easter and Family History: Connecting Faith, Family, and Tradition

It's almost April, and Easter month and all of its family activities, traditions, and celebrations are nearly upon us. This makes it a time of renewal, faith, and family togetherness. It is a perfect opportunity to reflect on Jesus Christ’s atoning sacrifice and Resurrection and to explore our own family history while we're at it, connecting past generations with the present, but maybe without those jellybeans from the 1980s. 😂 By merging Easter with family and especially some historical exploration, we create meaningful experiences.

Family History Activities for Easter

1. Create a Family Tree (Of course!) – Easter symbolizes new life, making it a great time to revisit and document your family lineage. Work together as a family to create a family tree, sharing stories of faith and perseverance from past generations. This can be more online with FamilySearch, Ancestry, or Puzzila or can be physical and creative with a tree limb and some masking tape. 

2. Storytelling and Testimonies – At one of the natural family gatherings that occur, gather loved ones and share stories of ancestors, especially Easter or Christ-related ones. Reflect on how their trials and success parallel the message of hope found in Christ’s Resurrection. Maybe someone started a tradition your family still does today. Why is that?

3. Resurrection Egg Hunt – Incorporate scripture passages into a traditional egg hunt by placing written or printed Bible verses related to Jesus’ Resurrection inside each egg. For another fun twist, you can add glitter, small objects that help with symbols in the verses, or flowers. As children find them, discuss the significance of each verse. Encourage discussion while waiting for the next egg to be found. 

4. Write Letters to Future Generations – Encourage family members to write letters sharing their testimony, Easter memories, or thoughts on faith. These letters can be saved in a family history book to inspire future generations. Pictures of family, drawings, and pressed flowers are other additions.

5. Easter Time Capsule – Have family members contribute meaningful items such as letters, photos, scripture verses, or small mementos that reflect their faith and Easter celebrations. Seal them in a container to be opened at a future Easter gathering, creating a lasting connection across generations. Challenge Version: Fit it all into one Easter egg to be found for the next year!

Connecting Easter to Christ and Family

Just as Jesus’ resurrection brings the promise of eternal life, our heritage and family stories remind us of the little things that matter. By remembering and honoring our ancestors, we strengthen our personal and familial identity and deepen our appreciation for God’s plan.

Song of the Month

General Conference Helps

Conference is applicable to any age. It can just take a bit to get everyone to participate all together. Here are some ideas to help you out this General Conference. Good luck!

Here are five ideas for each age group to help make watching LDS General Conference more engaging:

 Toddlers

1. Conference Activity Box – Fill a box with quiet toys, coloring supplies, and simple puzzles to keep little hands busy. It's a great opportunity to practice for church attendance and public meeting settings as well that young ones oftentimes struggle with. 

2. Conference Snack Time – Prepare snacks such as graham crackers or marsh mellows that can be utilized during slow parts of the conference. 

3. Music & Movement Breaks – Let toddlers dance to conference hymns or move around between sessions.

4. Sticker Chart – Give them a sticker each time they hear words like "Jesus," "love," or "family."

5. Blanket Fort – Like King Benjamin's people pitched their tents around his tower, you can set up a cozy corner with pillows or a blanket fort directed toward the modern revelation. 

Kids

1. Conference Bingo – Create a bingo card with words or topics likely to be mentioned (e.g., "temple," "faith," "service") or pictures of potential speakers such as the First Presidency and twelve apostles. 

2. Building Challenge – Have kids build something with blocks or Legos based on a talk’s theme such as bridging faith or the Good Samaritan. 

3. Quiet Busy Bag – Fill a bag with gospel-related activity books, stickers, and small fidget toys. Have them regularly alternate between activities if they tire easily. 

Tweens

1. Note-Taking Challenge – Provide a fun journal for doodling, writing quotes, or recording impressions. You can use the same one every year or pass the notebook around the family. 

2. Prophet & Apostle Match-Up – Print photos of speakers and have tweens match them to their names as they come up to speak. You can also add fun facts about them on the back of the pictures. 

3. Conference Word Search – Create a word search with gospel terms related to conference.

4. Snack Break Rewards – Let them pick a favorite treat after listening actively to a talk. Yes, even tweens get hangry. 

 Teens

1. Social Media Share – Encourage them to share a favorite quote or thought online. 

2. Fantasy General Conference – Ask them to fill out a bracket before starting and see how correct they are throughout the conference. 

3. Artistic Expression – Let them create digital art, hand lettering, or a meme with a favorite quote from the session or conference.

4. Spiritual Goal-Setting – Challenge them to set a personal goal inspired by conference messages and write it down.

5. Conference Walk & Talk – Take a short walk between sessions while discussing insights. This also refreshes them for the next session. 

Young Adults

1. Group Watch Party – Invite friends or roommates to watch together with food and discussion breaks.

2. Live Tweet or Journal – Take notes or post about inspiring quotes in real time. Sketch notes are also really fun. 

3. Temple Trip Plan – Write down everything related to temples and family history. Use conference as motivation to plan a visit to the temple soon, giving you insights on how to plan it for you and your friends. 

4. Hot Cocoa Bar – Set up a shop-style atmosphere with warm drinks and cozy seating on a morning session of conference. Apple cider and other cozy drinks are great alternatives. 

Parents

1. Themed Treats – Make themed snacks related to gospel topics (e.g., "bread of life" cinnamon rolls).

2. Family Ponder & Share – Encourage a brief reflection time after each session. Three minutes or less is achievable! 

3. Multi-Task – Fold laundry, meal prep, or do light tasks while listening.

4. Personal Study Journal – Write personal impressions and ways to apply talks in family life. Try to be specific to yourself and your family rather than writing down what was said. 

5. Couple Discussion Time – Share favorite moments with your spouse after each session.

 Grandparents

1. Virtual Conference Chat – Set up a family group chat to share thoughts during talks or real-time watch the Conference together with loved ones that live far away. 

2. Conference Traditions – Create a special tradition, like a family meal between sessions or a board game. 

3. Send a Post-Conference Letter – Write a letter to grandkids about a favorite talk and testimony.

4. Personal Reflection – Use conference time to ponder legacy and personal gospel insights. Record thoughts in a journal. 

Calendar

Check the calendar  for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

April 5th-6th General Conference- Center closed

April 12th Passover

April 13th Palm Sunday

April 20th Easter Sunday- Center closed

 

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or of course, the blog! 

Facebook

Instagram

March Newsletter

 St. Patrick's Day Heritage

Honoring Irish Heritage

St. Patrick's Day, celebrated on March 17th, is more than just a day for parades, green attire, and festive gatherings—it's an opportunity to connect with family history and honor Irish heritage. Whether you have Irish ancestry or simply appreciate the shamrock-loving, tartan-wearing culture, the holiday provides an entire day to delve into the past and celebrate your roots.

Exploring Family Lineage

For many, St. Patrick's Day sparks curiosity about family lineage. Approximately 9.5% of the United States population is of Irish descent, making it one of the most common ancestries in the country. It's the perfect time to research genealogy, uncover family stories, and explore connections to Ireland. Resources like Ancestry.com or FamilySearch, DNA testing services, and local historical societies (hint, hint...the FamilySearch Center in Burley) can help trace family roots back to Irish ancestors. Understanding where your family comes from adds a personal significance to the holiday and fosters a sense of belonging.

Preserving Family Recipes

Family traditions play a vital role in celebrating St. Patrick's Day. Cooking traditional Irish meals, such as corned beef and cabbage or Irish soda bread, can be a way to honor the culinary heritage passed down through generations. Sharing these recipes with younger family members not only keeps traditions alive but also strengthens family bonds. And if baking Irish foods is out of your skillset, adding some green food coloring to pancakes or cake frosting can be another fun way to celebrate as a family. 

Storytelling Across Generations

Irish people are known for their storytelling and legends (the gift of the blarney). Storytelling is another powerful way to bridge the gap between past and present. Take time to share family legends, anecdotes, or letters from ancestors. These stories connect generations, helping children and grandchildren understand their heritage and the sacrifices made by those who came before them.

Embracing Cultural Heritage

Even if your family doesn't have Irish roots, celebrating St. Patrick's Day can inspire a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage. Use the day as an opportunity to learn about Irish history, music, and traditions. Encourage family members to create online or literal family trees, document memories by taking pictures of your celebrations, and maybe even invite other families to join you as well. 

A Legacy Worth Celebrating

St. Patrick's Day reminds us that our family stories are worth celebrating. Whether through food, stories, or research, connecting with your family's history can make the holiday even more special and strengthen the ties that bind generations together.

Song of the Month

CONSULTANT LESSONS

Consultant Lessons are  held weekly on Thursdays at 6:00 pm taught by Shelley Miles. She will be using Zoom Class Replays as taught by the Los Angeles Family Search Center. It may be geared for ward and stake temple and family history consultants, but all are welcome to come learn more about FamilySearch. 

Classes Include:

- Consultant’s Best Resources

-The Basics/Descendency Tree

-Blue Dots and Source Linker

-Family Search Catalog

-Family Tree Apps

-Fan Charts

-Memories

 

CALENDAR

Check the calendar for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

March 5th-8th Roots Tech

 

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or of course, the blog! 

Facebook

Instagram

February Newsletter

 Love Through Generations: A Family-Centered Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is often seen as a celebration of corny movies, a gazillion valentines, and romantic love, but at its core, it is about all the simple type of love—including the deep, spiritual love shared within families across generations. Our ancestors carried stories of love, sacrifice, and resilience that shaped who we are today. This Valentine’s Day, take time to honor those connections and create meaningful memories with your family.

Honoring Love from the Past

One beautiful way to celebrate is by exploring the love within your very own family history. Love letters, wedding photos, or stories passed down through generations can remind us of the enduring power of love. Visit with grandparents or older relatives, asking about their most cherished memories of love and marriage, perhaps even asking about past traditions. 

Spiritual Connection Through Family Traditions

Consider holding a small family gathering centered around gratitude and love. Light a candle in remembrance of ancestors who paved the way for your family. Share family blessings or prayers, reflecting on how love has been a guiding force through generations. A gratitude journal, where each family member writes a note of appreciation for another, can also be a powerful tradition.

Valentine’s Day Activities Ideas with Family

1. Create a Family Love Tree – Write down ancestors’ names and stories on heart-shaped notes and hang them on a decorative branch or old jewelry tree.
2. Cook a Heritage-Inspired Meal – Prepare a dish that reflects your cultural heritage (but make it heart-shaped) and enjoy it together.
3. Make Handmade Valentine’s for Family – Include family history tidbits or favorite memories in each card.
4. Story Night – Share love stories from your family’s past and discuss what love means across generations.

This Valentine’s Day, let love be more than a fleeting moment. Let it be a bridge between the past, present, and future.

Song of the Month

ACCESSING ZOOM CLASSES

Some of our classes at the center are being offered via Zoom. This includes the Basic Spanish class by Cameron and Wednesday morning classes by Tammy. To verify the Zoom class, go to the blog at burleyfamilyhistorycenter.blogspot.com and click on the Calendar option. When clicking on the class name, a pop up window will give more information, including the Zoom link.   

To access the Zoom link directly, click "more details" to open the calendar in another tab. Click on the name of the class and this time the pop up window will have the direct zoom link shown as a clickable link. The passcode is also listed, in case it is needed. This is also the way to access the handouts from the classes. 

You can also select "click here to open the calendar in a new window" from the first page and get the zoom links and handouts from there. 

CONSULTANT LESSONS

Consultant Lessons are  held weekly on Thursdays at 6:00 pm taught by Shelley Miles. She will be using Zoom Class Replays as taught by the Los Angeles Family Search Center. It may be geared for ward and stake temple and family history consultants, but all are welcome to come learn more about FamilySearch. 

Classes Include:

- Consultant’s Best Resources

-The Basics/Descendency Tree

-Blue Dots and Source Linker

-Family Search Catalog

-Family Tree Apps

-Fan Charts

-Memories

 

CALENDAR

Check the calendar for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

February 7  Burley Family Search Center 6th Annual Expo at the Burley West Stake Center, 5-9 pm

February 8  Burley Family Search Center 6th Annual Expo at the CSI Mini-Cassia Campus, 8 am- 5 pm

 

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or of course, the blog!

Facebook

Instagram

 January Newsletter

New Year’s Resolutions: Setting Meaningful Goals Rooted in Family History

The New Year brings a sense of renewal and hope, inspiring millions to set resolutions that shape the months ahead. While popular goals often center on fitness, finances, or self-improvement, tying your resolutions to your family history can add a deeply personal and motivating layer.

Why Family History Matters
Your family’s story is more than a collection of names and dates—it’s a living legacy of resilience, culture, and values. Incorporating this into your New Year’s resolutions connects you to your roots and inspire meaningful growth. For example, if a grandparent overcame hardships to pursue education, you might commit to a learning goal in their honor. If your family emigrated from another country, you could explore their native language or traditions on holidays.

Setting Goals with Purpose
A meaningful resolution begins with clarity. Use the SMART method—set goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For instance, rather than simply vowing to “exercise more,” you might aim to train for a charity run inspired by a cause your family supports.

Engaging Loved Ones
Resolutions can be an opportunity to strengthen family bonds. Consider setting collective goals, like preserving old photographs, documenting family recipes, or creating a genealogy project. These efforts foster connection and ensure that family stories are passed down to future generations.

Embracing the Journey
Goals tied to family history carry profound significance, but they require patience and flexibility. Mistakes happen. Minds forget goals after a while, and we simply have to start again. Still, celebrate small milestones and remember that progress, not perfection, is the ultimate aim.

This New Year, look to your past to guide your future. By weaving your family’s story into your resolutions, you’ll create goals that are both heartfelt and enduring, ensuring that 2025 is not only a year of personal growth but also a celebration of your shared legacy.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

SONG OF THE MONTH

ACCESSING ZOOM CLASSES

Some of our classes at the center are being offered via Zoom. This includes the Basic Spanish class by Cameron and Wednesday morning classes by Tammy. To verify the Zoom class, go to the blog at burleyfamilyhistorycenter.blogspot.com and click on the Calendar option. When clicking on the class name, a pop up window will give more information, including the Zoom link.   

To access the Zoom link directly, click "more details" to open the calendar in another tab. Click on the name of the class and this time the pop up window will have the direct zoom link shown as a clickable link. The passcode is also listed, in case it is needed. This is also the way to access the handouts from the classes. 

You can also select "click here to open the calendar in a new window" from the first page and get the zoom links and handouts from there. 

CONSULTANT LESSONS

Consultant Lessons are starting again on January 16th. They are held weekly on Thursdays at 6:00 pm taught by Shelley Miles. She will be using Zoom Class Replays as taught by the Los Angeles Family Search Center. It may be geared for ward and stake temple and family history consultants, but all are welcome to come learn more about FamilySearch. 

Classes Include:

- Consultant’s Best Resources

-The Basics/Descendency Tree

-Blue Dots and Source Linker

-Family Search Catalog

-Family Tree Apps

-Fan Charts

-Memories 

CALENDAR

Check the calendar for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

• January 16
• Consultant Lessons
• Burley Family Search Center 6th Annual Expo
• February 7 at the Burley West Stake Center, 5-9 pm
• February 8 at the CSI Mini-Cassia Campus, 8 am- 5 pm

 Closed Dates

• December 22-January 2
• Christmas
• New Year's

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or of course, the blog!

Facebook

Instagram