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Browsing Through Abstracts of Back Copies of CONNECTIONS

The first issue of Volume 1 appeared in September 1978, to be followed in December 1978, and again in March of 1979, and so on down through the years. They are all on file in the QFHS Library.

Regular columns such as Queries, Notices of Activities, Letters, Book Reviews, Library Acquisitions, etc., along with administrative items and fillers, have been omitted.

Many back issues are in print and can be purchased from our Bookstore.



THE FIRST DECADE - 1978 to 1988

Volume 1: 1978-79

No. 1 - September 1978

If you don't know the Mississquoi County Historical Society, enjoy the introduction given by the late Doris McIntosh to budding family historians.

Here, too, are the inscriptions from 31 tombstones in the Old English - Burying Ground 1866 - once located on Dorchester near St. Urbain Street, Montreal, dating from 1788. Could some of the names belong on your tree?

No. 2 - December 1978

Mme. Yvonne Lambert Tardif, Secretary of La Société Généalogique, Canadienne -Francaise, introduced the young QFHS to the work done by her society. Perhaps she has some hints for you.

Searching for the Lost History of the Gaspé Coast, with David and Doris McDougall gives a lively, enthusiastic account of"using the histories of individuals and groups to re-discover the history of a place"... and discusses a file system for those who are not yet computer buffs.

No. 3 - March 1979

Have you found Genealogical Identification Systems difficult, confusing, baffling to the point of saying "Who needs one?"? A quiet browse with Gwen P. King, as she lends a kindly, guiding hand through the maze, may be just what you need.

Genealogy and the Camera - Camera equipment has changed remarkably in ten years, but Leon Goldik's basic pleas for camera use in recording family history remain the same.

Cemetery Inscriptions at Lakefield, Gore, Argenteuil County, excerpted from "The Parker Family History" (1952) and dated 1940 may provide a starting point for some of our browsers.

No. 4- June 1979

Perhaps you read the article on Argenteuil Ancestors by Pamela Oss in Connections Vol.13, No.1 and wondered about the one published Cemetery List mentioned. It's here:- Cemetery Inscriptions - Edina Protestant Cemetery, by Jean Mott.

Here too, listed in The British Militia and the "Blockade of Québec" 1775-1776, by David McDougall are the names of 175 militia men (and their widows), unsung heroes of that long-ago winter. Perhaps you'll find a family member among them.

And if you are feeling jaded, and your research has bogged down, try re-charging your batteries with Getting High on Genealogy, by Irene Jezek

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Volume 2: 1979-80

Nos. 1 - 2 -September - December 1979

Vermont Genealogy Parts 1 and 2, by Carole Anne Sinclair Lewis is full of information (that may need to be updated in certain aspects) for anyone just starting out on the trail of Vermont forbears - e.g. Probate Districts, not to mention an alphabetical list of Vermont towns and present counties.

No. 3 - March 1980

Have you ever considered Funeral Notices in your genealogical research? D.E. and D.J. McDougall enlarge on the possibilities and present a collection (1790-1856) for the Montreal region.

Having trouble Fitting our Ancestors into Historical Migrations to Canada? Margaret Turner, in describing her own experience may help you to see the picture more clearly. You'll want to update her fine bibliography - so much has been written in the past ten years.

No. 4 - June 1980

If your memory of the history of Lachine is limited to the Lachine Massacre, Margaret Oke offers you a pleasant introduction to Lachine and Its People.

This issue also provides an extensive Summer Reading list, both fiction and non-fiction for those interested in not only "Who were they? Where did they live?" but also "What kind of life did they have?" Just remember this list requires updating, too.

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Volume 3: 1980 - 81

No. 1 - September 1980

THE EASTERN TOWNSHIPS - map and article by Marion Perkins - identifies that part of Québec for the uninitiated. Interesting at this point in Québec's history is reference to the "new organization - The Townshippers' Association founded to foster the development of the province's ethno-cultural minorities".

Have you an United Empire Loyalist Ancestor? - Joyce Bradford offers a brief introduction for the novitiate, as well as suggestions for sources of proof of heritage. Just remember updating of these sources is essential.

Orkney Links with the Hudson Bay Company, by Irene Jezek might well arouse those with roots in that area to go digging again.

No. 2-December 1980

Eastern Townships Historical Societies are listed. Present day status and addresses should be checked with Q.F.H.S.Library.

Belleville Cemeteries - Information provided by Joan Benoit may provide a beginning for some but will need to be brought up to date.

Russian - Canadian Collection Discovered - "For thousands of Canadians of Armenian, Doukhobor, Estonian, Finnish, Georgian, Jewish,Latvian, Lithuanian, Mennonite, Polish, Russian and Ukrainian origin" -a gold-mine of information previous to 1922. Includes records related to immigration, settlement, military service etc. etc. Now housed in the National Archives, Ottawa.

No. 3 - March 1981

Cynthia Dow gives us a guided tour of The Gaspe Peninsula, the land and its people and suggests in Part 2 Vol 3 No.4 June '81 sources of information for those interested in this part of Québec. Remember addresses may have changed.

German Genealogy, by John E. Ruch - a presentation at Q.F.H.S. November 1980 meeting - is well worth your time providing as it does fascinating examples of sound genealogical principles being applied".

No. 4 - June 1981

St. George's Church Cemetery - Clarenceville, Mississquoi County, Québec (no longer in existence). Listed here are 271 names, deaths dating from 1830.

Tracing Anglophone Protestant Ancestors Amidst the French of 0uébec, by Stephen C. Gilmour is not to be missed, not just for the wealth of suggestions ions but particularly for the note of encouragement and enthusiasm expressed throughout. Updating of addresses may be needed.

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Volume 4: 1981-2.

No. 1 - September 1981

St. Stephen's Church, Lachine is a real bonus for anyone interested in the upcoming celebration of its 160th anniversary in June, for here is Margaret Oke's account of its 150th anniversary to be found on page 6\7 of this issue.

If you are like many family history buffs, you've still not mastered the art of collating your material into usable form. Gwen King's enthusiastic and knowledgeable approach in Genealogical Data Organization and Genealogical Information (pp.9-16) may help to upgrade your know how and skill.

No. 2 - December 1981

Occupations and Genealogy. Here David J. McDougall provides fascinating insight into the relationships between the occupations of family members and the ancestral tree itself. While offering suggestions how to find answers to the eternal questions. . . What did they do? Why did they move? Where do they fit in? He carefully points out pitfalls to be avoided in coming to your conclusions. Along with all this, you'll find interesting examples to illustrate the points being made.

What's in a Name?, by Karen Osgoode gives some 30 family names descended from English ancestors which can be related directly to early professions or trades.

English Rural Newspapers published in Québec 1981 - a list compiled for QFHS by Macdonald College. This item is probably most interesting as a measure of what the past 10 years have, wrought.

No. 3 - March 1982

If you don't know Pontiac County, let Margaret Goldik be your guide, not only to its early history but also to sources for genealogical research. Remember the latter may require updating.

On the Trail of Ancestor Antoine, by Adrienne Leduc. Here is an enthralling account of a Dutch war bride's search for her in-laws ancestry, sparked by Canada's Centennial.

Don't ignore local cookbooks as possible source material. Joan Benoit unearthed an account of two Sea Tragedies in Newfoundland, complete with list of crew members lost (See p. 6)

French Weekly Newspapers of Québec are listed for 1981. Be prepared for changes in the past ten years.

No. 4 - June 1982

In this issue pride of place is given to the material presented at the QFHS Workshop , April 1981.

Québec Loyalist Background and Documentary Sources, by John E. Ruch provides a solid introduction - or a fine refresher course- for anyone interested in Loyalist history and research. Once more you are reminded that, in the ten years since, much further research has been done in this area. Updating of sources is an ongoing process.

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Volume 5: 1982-83

No. 1 - September 1982

If you have been wondering how it all began - i.e. QFHS - you'll find the major details in Bits and Pieces: Past, Present and Future in the Québec Family History Society by Glen Gourlay (pp. 14-16).

My Favorite Ancestor, by Bill Overy is fun to read. Just may be it will inspire you to do something about that special story about some family member. Why not share it with us?

Care and Preservation of Family Photographs and Materials, by R.C.B. Garrity - If you are a beginner in the business of gathering and preserving family records, don't miss this concise presentation of so many aspects of the task. Just remember, even here there have been changes in techniques in the past decade.

No. 2 - December 1982

Pride of Place in this issue has been given to Glenaladale from the attractive sketch by Leon Goldik on the cover to the fine History of Glenaladale, by Beverley Gilbertson to be found on pp. 9-18, for QFHS knew it as home for many years.

Margaret Oke in reporting another 150th anniversary, this time St. Andrew's United Church, Lachine, calls to mind the Grant family, with the remainder that records exist of "early families from Lower Lachine (La Salle) as far west as Pointe Claire and Ile Perrot". Any family members of yours here?

And it is in this issue that QFHS proudly announces the acquisition of the I.G.I. - with clear instructions as to the best way for members to make use of it (pp. 28-29).

No. 3 - March 1983

Land and Probate Records, by Terry Punch is a carefully presented analysis of the nuances of land and probate records from the point of view of a genealogist and local historian. It is well worth studying. (pp. 6-10)

Periodical Exchange listing for 1983 reminds this browser to check with QFHS Library to get the latest: Canadian, American,English, Irish and Scottish. How about you?

Other lists in this issue include Genealogical Groups and Information re Judicial Districts of the Civil Archives in the Province of Québec, with accompanying map and addresses. QFHS Library can help you update these, also.

Finally, in this issue you will find Vol. 2 and 3 indexed!

No. 4 - June 1983

Of note: Two aspects of genealogy are presented - social history and family history. In Genealogy as part of Social History - "Bud" Jones you are introduced to Bud Jones, historian in the Black Community in Montreal, and learn how QFHS sparked an ever-growing interest.

In Genealogy and the Miller Family - Gaspe Bay, you'll find David J. McDougall's fine review of The Children, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren of Richard Miller & Frances Annett of Gaspé, by Dorothy Phillips. This study covers the 19th century from the birth of the first child c 1795 to the youngest of 275 great grandchildren born in 1898. Profusely illustrated with family photos, 17 pages of Notes and biographical sketches, plus a complete surname index - some 75! Perhaps yours is among them.

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Volume 6: 1983-84

No. 1 - September 1983

In Great Grandfather and the Iron Works, David J McDougall provides a fine example of family history, tracing as he does not only the roots of his family but also the development of Les Forges du St. Maurice, Québec --- a most enjoyable amalgam of social history of an industry and an affectionate look at a favorite ancestor.

Did You Know?
Here is a source worth noting. Bell Canada has donated microfilms of every page of every phone book published in Ontario and Québec since 1878. They are available in the respective archives of Ontario and Québec.

No. 2 - December 1983

New England Captives Carried to Canada. Not to be missed is Gerry Rogers' fascinating article. The fate of these captives (1677-1760) during the French and Indian Wars was researched from Canadian parish registers by Miss Lewis Coleman and finally published in two volumes in 1925. Mr. Rogers has cited only a few of the hundreds of cases, with specific examples from Caughnawaga of interesting English name changes.

What's in a Name ... a gold-mine of information. Here R.C.B. Garrity pursues the origins of family names (with fine examples), discussing patronymics; nicknames based on childhood diminutives, physical and/or personal characteristics (good and bad), place names, occupations, etc.; prefixes ... and so much more.

Did you know? The archives of Dr. Bernardo's homes are now housed in Liverpool University - and available for research.

Nos. 3 & 4 - 1984

If you are researching New England names and would like a refresher course on the period of The Mayflower, let Margaret Stead bring you up to date with her two-part study of the world "the Pilgrims" left and the world to which they came.

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Volume 7: 1984-85

Nos. 1&2; - 1984

An Outline of the Patterns of the Non-French- Speaking Settlement in Québec in the 18th and 19th Centuries: Parts I & II. Pride of place is given in these two issues to a two-part article by Dr. David McDougall which, today, provides a timely reminder of how deep our roots in Québec are! Not only are five stages (between 1760-1900) outlined, but also problems in tracking down information for each stage are discussed, and then actual sources of information are cited,not to mention five Appendices, such as Distribution of Regiments and 87 Townships named in which land grants were made (1796-1814). One reminder: Information as to sources may need to be updated.

Nos. 3&4; - 1985

Genealogical Sources in the Salle Gagnon at the bibliothèque de la Ville de Montréal: Parts 1&2;. Written by Daniel Olivier, Department Head, and translated by Jacqueline Jacques, here is an outline of the sources of genealogical information available in Montreal, along with gentle reminders of all genealogical resources to be explored "to better understand the history of a people and their daily life and bring it back to a more human level". Another reminder: The past five years have seen great changes in materials available; retrieval techniques and storage of valuable materials.

No. 3 - 1985 also introduces you to the Eastern Townships Research Centre at Bishop's University, Lennoxville, Québec -- well worth a visit, even by print!

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Volume 8: 1985-86

No. 1. - September 1985

Situation Report on an Ongoing Genealogical Research Douglas Whiteside provides the names and addresses of the sources he used in his search of military and civilian records to locate his 2X-great grandfather John Bignell. John, a private in the 49th Reg. of Foot, served in Canada during the War of 1812. The British Archives Manuscript Division in Ottawa provided invaluable personal assistance. If you are researching someone who was in the British military in Canada read this account.

History of the Chateauguay Valley & District with Cemetery Listings Are you from the Chateauguay Valley? If you are -- or are researching South-West Québec you have to be aware of Gerry Rogers long experience with the Valley families. Gerry has produced two Volumes of material indexed by the many towns and villages. People and events particular to a site are chronicled.

The Banfills, Halls and Mills of Compton Township. Hugh Banfill takes us through family detail showing the tremendous value of Land Records for family historians. Compton Township was surveyed in 1798 and opened for settlement in 1799.
Hugh's debate with a cousin resulted in recourse to the land records to solve the question. Hugh is an expert on the Compton County land records.

No. 2. - December 1985

From New England to New France in 1704. Donald E. Read recounts the story of the Deerfield Raid which took place Feb. 28-29, 1704. His ancestor, a 12 year old girl, was taken prisoner that night. Don follows Sarah Allyn in her new life in New France, her marriage to Guillaume de la Londe. A direct descendent chart and a list of the many reference books used in his research are noted.

Returns of Emigrating Indented Servants.
Newspapers in Ireland.
Militiamen in the War of 1812.
Three one page articles with very specific information. They are worth noting if they touch your area of interest. The first indicates where records regarding young people indentured to the colonies of Virigina, Maryland and Pennsylvania may be found. This material is almost as comprehensive as up to date emigration records.

The second lists the names of Irish County newspapers. If you know the County you now know the Newspaper.

The third, an excerpt from the March 30th, 1876 Huntingdon Gleaner, lists the names and ages of local militiamen who served in the War of 1812.

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No. 3 - March 1986

Headstones from "The Ancestor Trail in Ireland". Dick Garrity provides suggestions for the recording of tombstones and some epitaphs which attract strangers attention.

A Background View of Early Canadian Music. Douglas Whiteside has written an interesting view of the development of music life in Québec City following the American Revolution. Doug's 3X great grandfather, Frederick Glackemeyer born in Hanover, enlisted as a bandsman in the German mercenary army that fought for Britain in North America. Honourably discharged in 1783 he settled in Québec City. He became the organist for the Catholic Cathedral, a much sought after music teacher, the Garrison Bandmaster and in 1820 formed the Québec Harmonic Society. An interesting read.

Genealogy - Printed Sources Part I The first of an excellent two part presentation regarding Authors, Titles and Publishers of written material appropriate to researchers. This is an excellent source of information re: Québec and Canada and is well worth your time. The first portion of the material is divided into Researcher's Guide, Published Family Genealogies, Special Ethnic Groups and other nationalities.

No. 4 June 1986

Genealogy - Printed Sources Part II The completion of the excellent material presented in the March issue. The material includes Atlases, City Directories, Parish Registers, Biographies, Published Lists and Other Sources. A rare collection of printed material to lead the beginner and the longtime researcher to new areas of research.

John Shank's Navy - Part I An account, by David McDougall, of the development of a Canadian naval service during the time of the American Revolution. The author indicates the great number of difficulties encountered in creating a navy from scratch.

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Volume 9: 1986-87.

No. 1 - September 1986

John Schank's Navy Part II David J. McDougall continues his fine article on the ships, shipyards and the men involved with vessels sailing the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River during the American Revolution. Names of ships and men are listed.

Tracing The Natural Parents of Adopted Persons In BRITAIN One of the most difficult searches for relatives is the quest for natural parents. This material was written for the International Society for British Genealogy and Family History. Directions to contact the Registrar-General and to complete the proscribed forms are emphasised. Documentary sources and references are listed.

No. 2. - December 1986

"English Records" in the French Regime Barbara Douglas provides references and examples of English individuals in New France as early as 1690. The records indicate a variety of locations, origin, and settlement which leads the researcher to contemplate how each person arrived in New France.

Stewart Park of Vercheres Jean Park Lee chronicles the family history of Stewart Park M.D. listed as the"surgeon of Vercheres" at the time of his wedding 7. Jan. 1819. A special note is made regarding the Doctor's will which appointed Dr. Wolfred Nelson as guardian of his minor children. Unfortunately, Dr. Nelson was involved in the 1837 Rebellion and was in exile when he was required. Wills are always interesting material.

Some Québec References in Ontario Land Records If you are searching for land records in Western Québec do not forget that political decisions do play a part in where records are kept. The Old Province of Québec was separated into two parts in 1791. An example is given of a Surveyor's report for Hawkesbury Township, Upper Canada and includes the names of some of the petitioners.

No. 3. - March 1987

The Centennial of Kingsey Township 1800-1900 The Wadleigh family arrived on the St Francis River from the Connecticut River in 1800. They were soon joined by the Abercrombie family. Descendants of the families were instrumental in organizing a Centennial Celebration. Of interest to readers from the Townships.

Archival Sources in Ottawa-Hull. Western Québec and Ottawa Valley archives found in the immediate Capital area are listed. The Archives National du Québec, and Societe de Genealogie de l'Outaouais are located in Hull and contain much Catholic and Non-Catholic data. In Ottawa there is the National Library, the Archives of Canada, the Ottawa Branch of Ont. Genealogical Society and the Ottawa Stake of the L.D.S.

A Source of Information For Eastern Ontario And Western Québec. Alex Fraser, U.E.L. presents sources available to those who are searching Stormont & Glengarry Counties in Ontario and the nearby area of Québec. The sources include genealogical books, Census, cemeteries lists, land records and newspapers and their location.

There are a number of short items such as;

No. 4.- June 1987

History is a Grave Matter. Bob Alderson, the new editor of Connections, writes about the progress he has made in the recording of cemeteries in Argenteuil County.

Personal Ancestral File. Dave Shaw writes about the use of computers in genealogy. He presents material and examples using P.A.F. (Personal Ancestry File)

Some Sources to research for Irish Ancestors. Jean Isabelle Parke Lee discusses her success in acquiring information of Irish ancestors through her contacts with the Ulster Historical Foundation. She had the good fortune to establish contact with a distant relative through two queries in their publication

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Volume 10: 1987-88

No. 1 - September 1987

This edition was the first produced after the move to the new offices in the Summerlea Learning Centre. A number of short articles concern the various materials available to members in the Library- Cemetery Lists- Genealogical Societies in Québec as well as upcomung workshops.

No. 2 - December 1987

Heraldry All you need to know about the development of Heraldry. Mr. Wm Ludlow provides the basics of heraldry with some useful illustrations. The address for the Heraldry Society of Canada is included.

Periodical Exchanges A list of the organizations exchanging Journals with Q.F.H.S. is indexed by Province, American States, English and Scottish Shires. The list provides a concise method of locating organizations working within specific geographical areas.

No. 3 - March 1988

Numbering Systems Hugh Banfill discusses and illustrates the use of numbering systems to ease the identification of ancestors and the construction of lineage charts. Interesting!!

Baptist Church Records - Dalesville, Québec. Jean Mott has transcribed the records of Rev. J. Edwards from 1837-1843. The original stone church built in 1835 still stands. Some of the names included in the records are McGregor, McArthur, McGibbon, McPhail, McKercher, McFarlane, McFaul, Fuller, Wales, Dewar, McDonald. One of the deaths is the wife of the minister in 1843.

Cemetery Lists For Sale Following a copyright discussion, cemetery recordings available for sale through the Q.F.H.S. are listed. The format gives name, address, County, Township, Prov./State, year recorded and the recorder. A handy tool.

No. 4 - June 1988

This issue celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the Québec Family History Society. President Hugh Banfill's report indicated that the Society had grown so much that Incorporation was about to take place. In addition, there was a need for a $5.00 increase in membership fees.

The Québec Family History Society - Its First Decade. Margaret Turner relates the history of the Society with it's many ups and a few downs of the small group of enthusiastic beginners to the 10 year membership of approximately 400 plus members complete with Library, Journal and paid Secretary. It is nice to know that some of the founding members are still active participants in the Society.

Financial Report and Additions to Our Library. Treasurer Dorothy Weller's financial report and the Library additions list presented a very practical demonstration of the strength of the Society. The General Reserve contained $8,825.96, the Library list indicated 1234 items Books, Census, Atlas, Family Histories etc. available for member use.

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Short Items.


Our second decade

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Updated: February, 2003
Copyright © 1996-2003, Quebec Family History Society. All rights reserved.
QFHS, P.O. Box 1026, Pointe Claire, QC, H9S 4H9, Canada. (514) 695-1502.