Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen

Let us know what you think! Ever wondered how the unsung heroes of local genealogy societies are keeping the threads of local history and culture alive and their doors open? Kathleen uncovers the rich tapestry of contributions local societies.  By the end of our talk, you'll value these small genealogy societies not just as repositories of the past, but as vibrant storytellers preserving our...

Let us know what you think! The military records of Dante Barber's third great-grandfather, David Barber confirmed David enlisted in the Civil War -  USCT at Ft Leavenworth, Kansas. David and wife Sophia Bullitt, were born in KY. Yet, all of their children were born in Missouri. In this DIY genealogy project, Dante will have to comb through records of KY, MO and Kansas to get his genealogical...

Let us know what you think! Join us for a DNA myster. Our guest Alexis Bagale from Michigan  has been navigating DNA testing results to uncover the parents of her 2nd great-grandmother, Ellen Conard. Does her answer lie within the X chromosome? Let's review inheritance of the X-chromosome. Don't forget to share your thoughts on our Facebook page! Support the show Be sure to bookmark link...

Let us know what you think! Unravel the mysteries of genealogy with Ann Blackburn, our distinguished guest and hobbyist genealogist from St. Louis, Missouri! Let's delve into the complexities of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) application process as Ann reveals her ordeal with incorrect historical details provided by earlier descendants. Be sure to listen to the special appeara...

Let us know what you think! The echoes of the past resonate as we delve into the beauty of names, the intricacies of genealogy, and the wistful memories of grandparents, aunts, and uncles.   Now, imagine discovering a whole new branch of your family tree.  So, tune in and join us in this captivating episode about names, genealogy, and the timeless traditions of our families. Support the show Be su...

Let us know what you think! Support the show Be 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 perfect episode for the DIY genealogist! We all love a good myth-busting session, and what better topic than the US Census! John needs Kathleen to address his burning census questions!  (Shhh! He didn't like all the answers). This question/answer session covers census and census substitutes. We cover colonial era enumeration schedules (Musters), as well as Fede...

Let us know what you think! Have you ever wondered just how deep the roots of your family tree reach? In today's DIY genealogy episode, we embark on an adventure alongside our guest, retired military veteran and IT professional, Bruce Gebbeken. As we explore the enigmatic life of his great-grandfather, James Jordan, we navigate the puzzling labyrinth of census records and familial silence.  S...

Let us know what you think! John catches up with Kathleen while she's traveling doing research for clients, in Richmond Virginia with Kevin Spire, an a3genealogy intern. They talk about their work at the Library of Congress as well as other valuable repositories in the D.C., VA. area. Chewey has a  highlighted spot. Support the show Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks   for your one...

Let us know what you think! This episode challenges assumptions and forces Nancy to cross-reference documents to reveal the true lineage of a family.  In this DIY genealogy expedition, Kathleen delves into the mysteries of the Carpenter family, unearthing alias names and debunks relationships. Trees, census records, biographical sketches are riddled with errors! We also acknowledge our amazing spo...

Let us know what you think! Ever wondered what mysteries your family name might hold? Our guest, Dina Newman from Kansas City, shares her captivating DIY genealogy journey of tracing her roots, uncovering unexpected connections and piecing together a complex family history. As we delve into the unusual last name of Tyeskey, we explore not only a tale of adopted surnames but also a story that reach...

Let us know what you think! Ever wonder how your newly arrived immigrants tackled the new land? Join us for a fascinating journey as we trace the Greek ancestry of our neighbor and guest, Stephanie Holthaus. Stephanie captivates us with tales of her maternal grandfather, Pete Constantine Chepolas. We aid Stephanie through a maze of Greek related ancestral records to trace her family from Greece to...

Let us know what you think! We've got an intriguing genealogy mystery on our hands, as we chat with Bonnie Flatt from Illinois about her brick wall: Her DIY research reveals her great-grandfather, Richard Bush. Born in 1834 in either Illinois or Indiana, Richard's origins remain elusive, and Bonnie's quest for answers has led her to explore various strategies, such as understanding...

Let us know what you think! E201  On this first episode of Season 2, join us on an enlightening journey as we explore the world of DIY genealogy with our inspiring guest, Ronnie, a dedicated teacher from Farmingdale, Long Island. Roni  joins Kathleen for a session that sorts out four Samuels, the Salvation Army, and why assumptions are the arch enemies of genealogy heroes.  Research Sites/ Reposit...

Let us know what you think! Kathleen and Vickie begin a search in the Indian Territory (Oklahoma ) for Vickie's great-grandmother Ellen's maiden name. Kathleen's advice? "Let's let's go back to the starting gate." She outlined 10 resources/steps to review even before the DNA analysis.  The more information gathered on the family for your DNA analysis, the more su...

Let us know what you think! Kathleen and Rhonda go in search of the elusive Dr. Benjamin Fuller. The timeframe covers the prohibition era.  As Kathleen says, you have to be creative when your brickwall conundrum is: 1 man; with 2 wives; who uses 3 names; covers 4 states; and 5 counties.  She also says, "This is a do it yourself (DIY) genealogy podcast. “Ill show you where the shovel is, but I...

Let us know what you think! Kathleen talks to Charlotte from New York about how to untangle the DNA which paints a very interesting picture of the relationships in her biological family.  A complex issue needs heavy-hitting research tips and hints to break through this wall.   This DIY genealogy research will take dedication and lots of extra on-site research. Support the show Be sure to bookmark...

Let us know what you think! Karen Fauls-Traynor joins Kathleen to discuss "bad trees", the Wizard of Oz and the War of 1812 in order to track down her ancestor in New York.  But the DIY genealogy advice is just beginning!  This episode features lot's of resources and lots of history served up and brick walls start to crumble! #genealogy #warof1812 #NYC Support the show Be sure to bo...

Let us know what you think! Question: Where is Malinda McKinney of Wabaunsee, Ks? Anna Wilkins from Shawnee County, Kansas, drops by for some DIY genealogy advice from Kathleen about researching her Great, Great, Grandmother.  Will she find her in Tennessee or perhaps further down the Mississippi?  Plus, knowing your ships: immigrant, cargo,  military, mail ships - and slave ships, can be traced....

Let us know what you think! Kathleen welcomes Angela Rodesky (of Delaware) to discuss a relative that is hiding behind a brick wall.  Who was Cornelia Grey and why was she so unwanted in the community where she lived?  Family folklore collides with data and research in this first episode of Hittin' the Bricks.  But Angela needs to be ready with a pencil.  As Kathleen always says, this is a Do...

Let us know what you think! Kathleen and John talk about the podcast and how it got started.   A "brick-wall"  DIY genealogy podcast that features your questions and Kathleen Brandt's answers. She wants your stories, questions, and “brick walls”.   But be ready to add to your "to-do" list.  As Kathleen always says, this is a Do it yourself (DIY) genealogy podcast. “I'...