Ruby Coleman Speaks at Family History Expos
When I read over the agenda for the Springfield, IL Family History Expos, I knew one thing. I had to go and listen to Ruby Coleman speak! The way she names her lectures, I knew she would be a hoot to hang out with and get to know. I have been friends with Ruby on facebook for a while, but I had never meet her in real life and this was the perfect opportunity. So, between the two sessions that I heard her speak, I went up and introduced myself and we chatted for a few. It is always nice to be able to meet someone in real life when you get a chance.
Anyhow, I was able to attend to lectures by Ruby:
- When The Census Taker Came, Grandpa Was in the Outhouse
- My Ancestors Johnny Reb and Billy Yank
I was not disappointed with either. The first one was information on Census records and Ruby covered everything that needed to be covered, (I have taken a few classes on census records and it is always good to get a refresher, you might pick up something new). The one thing that she discussed in this lecture that I made note of is; that when we look at the way some of the names and places are written think about what could make them look so god awful wrong to us today. Think about the fact that Grandpa could have been chewing tobacco when he answered the questions which is why everything seems so garbled. The census taker could only report what he heard.

As for the second on her ancestors, it was obviously a lecture on the Civil War. Ruby goes through the many records that can used to research your veteran but she also adds her family story and how she thought she proved it all wrong. I won’t give away her ending because I know she has more speaking engagements with Family History Expos in the future. But I will say this, go and listen to her story!
Ruby is also a blogger, you can also read her two blogs You Go Genealogy Girls and .