Hidden Clues, New Paths: Creative Approaches to Finding Elusive Ancestors
"Breaking Through Your Brick Wall"
Maria “Ree” Hopper
Monday, 23 June 2025 @ 7 pm
In-person at Ridgewood Public Library
Open to GSBC members and non-Members
Summary: Uncover your family's hidden stories through innovative research strategies! This presentation, featuring actual case studies, will demonstrate creative approaches to breaking through genealogical brick walls. Learn how to analyze naming patterns, explore social networks of your ancestors, and leverage both direct and indirect records to piece together your family story. Discover why questioning sources – even original ones – is crucial. Learn why examining relationships with godparents, friends, neighbors, and associates can provide crucial clues, and understand the importance of critical thinking when evaluating both modern and historical sources. Perfect for beginner or experienced genealogists seeking fresh perspectives to solve their most challenging family history mysteries.
Speaker: Maria “Ree” Pratt Hopper, a professional genealogist and retired teacher, is a lifelong resident of Montvale. For over 20 years, she has been the borough's historian and a member of the Montvale Historic Preservation Commission.
