09/06/2025
Are you interested in tracing your family's history? The Northern Arizona Genealogical Society is presenting a nine-week course for beginners in Prescott, starting on October 2.
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FAMILY HISTORY FOR BEGINNERS: A NINE WEEK COURSE
Taught by JEANETTE SHIEL, Certified Genealogist & NAGS Education Chair
INTRODUCTION: With our nation’s 250th Anniversary celebrations beginning, this is the perfect time to dig deeper into your family’s history! Open to all who have a desire to learn more about their family ancestry. This is intended to be a beginner’s journey of becoming more familiar with various record groups. While this course is free, reservations are required so that we may have enough computers/supplies for those who attend; class size is limited.
Those who attend every session will “graduate,” receiving a certificate. This “class” is heavily computer oriented. Although advanced computer skills are not required, it is helpful to know some basic skills. Please expect to be able (or open to learning how) to download and/or copy online images. Access to using various websites is free; paid subscriptions are not required.
REGISTRATION: Deadline to register is September 30, 2025. Contact Jeanette Shiel by email with questions or to register at—
[email protected]
SCHEDULE & LOCATION: Classes are held on Thursdays, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Class dates: October 2, 16, 30; November 6, 13, 20; December 4, 18 and concludes on January 8, 2026. All classes will be held in the Training Lab (3rd Floor) at Prescott Public Library, 215 E. Goodwin St., Prescott, Arizona
WHAT TO BRING: • A thumb drive to store your images. • A notepad or small computer to take notes. • Reading glasses, as needed. • Identify a family line or two that you wish to learn about; bring that basic information with you. • An open mind to try something new. Handouts and worksheets will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Jeanette Shiel, a board-certified professional genealogist, focuses on family history, encouraging others to not only discover and learn about their ancestors’ lives, but also to share their stories. With over 25 years of family history research experience, she enjoys lecturing, teaching and writing.
Jeanette is a published author in NYG&B’s, The Record, and the National Genealogical Society Quarterly (NGSQ) among other local journals and publications. She is a past president of the North San Diego County Genealogical Society, serving that society for over 15 years in various board positions, and has also served the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) in several capacities, including at state and national levels. Always furthering her education, Jeanette has completed several genealogical programs including the National Genealogical Society’s Home Study Course, ProGen Study Group 16 and GenProof Study Group 16. Giving back, she has served as mentor to ProGen Study Group 39 and GenProof Study Groups, 52 and 92. Her formal education includes a degree in History with a minor in Film Studies.