In this lecture, attendees will explore the specialized value of local history volumes published during the “Centennial surge” between 1880 and 1920. The session provides a methodical framework for utilizing these “mug books,” which often combine broad geographical histories with detailed biographical sketches of local families. Participants will learn how to extract vital clues regarding immigrant origins, military service, and religious affiliations, while also understanding the functional limitations of these non-documented sources. By demonstrating advanced search techniques across digital repositories like HathiTrust, Google Books, and Internet Archive, the presentation teaches researchers how to corroborate biographical claims with primary records to build a more accurate and vivid portrait of their ancestors’ lives within their local communities.

Experience level: all