The Past and Present Family History Chat

Double Trouble! Two Johns. Three Marys. Which one belongs in your family tree? In this episode, Hilda and Liz explore the challenge of duplicate names in family history research and share practical strategies to help you tell ancestors apart and avoid costly mistakes. Content Creation & Presenters: Hilda Makowski and Liz Zito Original Music: Shane Makowski Intro and Outro: Katy Somerville Editing:...

The census is more than a population count—it’s a treasure trove for family historians. In this episode, we explore how census records can help uncover ancestors, trace family movements, reveal occupations, and provide insights into everyday life in the past. Listen to us, Hilda and Liz, as we chat about how census records can bring your family’s story to life. Content Creation & Presenters: Hilda...

In this episode of Past & Present Chat, we wander through an old graveyard together — navigating long grass, broken boots and generations of stories etched in stone. From hidden symbols and family plots to heartbreaking inscriptions and unexpected clues, we explore what cemeteries can reveal about the lives, loves and losses of the people who came before us. Join us as we chat about why gravey...

Hilda and Liz have been friends for decades, united by a shared passion for family history. A few years ago, they turned that passion into their business, “Generations,” helping others uncover their ancestry and connect with their roots. Now, through this monthly chat, they’re talking directly with you. In this first episode, they show how the clues you already have can be more than enough to begi...