DECATUR — If you’ve been working on your family history for a while and you’ve assembled a family line, perhaps it’s time to put it to the genealogical test.
As the kick-off to the 2012 program season, Van Buren Regional Genealogical Society (VBRGS) will sponsor “Putting Your Genealogy to the Test” at 7 p.m. Feb. 27 in the Community Room at Webster Memorial Library, Decatur.
The presentation will be made by Toni Benson, area genealogist and local history librarian for Van Buren District Library.
“In October, we issued a winter challenge, urging individuals to compile a family line of at least five generations and bring it back to us for review,” Benson said.
“We will take examples from those in attendance and test their findings using genealogical proof standards.”
Audience participation will be encouraged as Benson will analyze sections of family lines, focusing on completeness of information and documentation and offering alternatives to research challenges.
Guaranteed to be a learning opportunity; plan to attend this free public lecture.
Those who would like to provide lineages for review are encouraged to do so in advance of the program.
For more information about the program or to submit a family line, e-mail vbrgs@yahoo.com or visit the Local History Collection at the library.
As an added bonus, any family lines of five generations or more will be considered for a complimentary Southwest Michigan Pioneer Certificate awarded by VBRGS.
Prior to the society’s meeting the Local History Department will be open for research assistance provided by society members from 6 to 7 p.m.
You are welcome to attend both sessions.  For more information, contact Ann Flora, program chair, at (269) 684-1353 or vbgrs@yahoo.com.