Whether you’ve seen an advert for a major genealogical website and wondered what riches a subscription might reveal, you have a box of paperwork, passed down through generations, that deserves real attention, or your understanding of your family history is limited, there’s no denying the pull of the past. Where did I come from? And what does it say about me?

In this highly informative masterclass with Tahitia McCabe, the head of the University of Strathclyde’s Institute for Genealogical Studies, you’ll be invited to embark on a journey of discovery through your family’s history.

This class has been designed to provide you with the knowledge and essential tools to conduct your research thoroughly, accurately and efficiently, which means you’ll learn how to follow best practice and identify common mistakes, and navigate the process with confidence.

Among other things, you will explore ways to decipher old handwriting and what to look for in historical documents, and how to capture, organise and preserve your results. You will also engage in interactive exercises and explore real-life case studies to apply to your knowledge practically.

Course content

Where to begin with your family history research
The ethics of research, from DNA testing and facing challenging findings, to sharing the results
Your research roadmap
How to analyse records
The importance of referencing
Tools for capturing data and sharing findings – both online and physical
Genealogy records and where to find them
The pros and cons of the major genealogy databases
A case study for getting started

Tutor profile

Tahitia McCabe is the head of the Strathclyde Institute for Genealogical Studies at the University of Strathclyde. She holds an MLS from Syracuse University, and her research interests include immigration, and American and British genealogy. She is currently a PhD candidate working on a study of Americans residing in Scotland between 1850 and 1900.

Course Details

Date: Saturday 19 August 2023
Time: 2pm-5.30pm (BST)

A catch up recording will be shared after the class and will be available for two weeks.

This masterclass is available globally. If you are joining us from outside the United Kingdom, please use this time zone converter to check your local live streaming time.

2pm BST | 3pm CEST | 6am PDT | 9am EDT

You will be sent a link to the webinar 24 hours and 30 minutes before the start time. Please email masterclasses@theguardian.com if you do not receive the access link 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

We aim to make all Guardian Masterclasses accessible to all. If you require any adjustments to enable your participation in this course, please get in touch with us at masterclasses@theguardian.com.

This event will be hosted on a third-party live streaming platform Zoom, please refer to their privacy policy and terms and conditions before purchasing a ticket to the class.

Once a purchase is complete we will not be able to refund you where you do not attend or if you cancel your event booking. Please see our terms and conditions for more information on our refund policy.

Researching your family tree: A beginner’s masterclass with Tahitia McCabe