Discover family stories through conversations and DNA
November and December are special times to cherish and connect with family by sharing stories, traditions and even health information. While you gather during holidays think about ways to share memories and document your family's journey together to strengthen bonds and honor your heritage. The library's conversation kits and oral history kits can help you in this process.
While you probably don't think about sharing health information during the holidays, November is Family Health History Month, which encourages us all to share our medical history with our loved ones. Discussing this information helps families better understand different aspects of physical and mental wellness as well as genetic and hereditary issues.
DNA testing
DNA testing is another great tool for discovering family histories. Professional international genealogist, private investigator and consultant, Kathleen Brandt visited the library in mid-November to share information on the role of DNA testing in family histories. She explained how DNA tests work, what kinds of results can be expected, and how to use DNA tools to find relatives and ancestors.
Highlights from Brandt's presentation
- Get your DNA done. DNA websites offer steep discounts on DNA testing kits and services around every holiday.
- Your DNA sequence doesn't change, but the scientific interpretation of it can change with improvements in genetic science.
- DNA test results can help break down brick walls in genealogy research by confirming or disproving relationships through shared genetic matches with other testers.
See Kathleen Brandt's full presentation. We are also happy to talk to you in the library's Topeka Room (2nd floor) if you'd like more information on DNA testing or have other genealogy questions.
