NGS 2026 Fort Wayne: Final Day

NGS 2026 Family History Conference – Final Day

Connie Knox of Genealogy TV on YouTube

 

   The final day of a conference is always bittersweet. The pace is a little more relaxed, yet somehow a little more focused. As the week draws to a close, there are still opportunities to learn, connect, and make the most of every remaining moment.

 

Barbara Vines Little is giving out free copies of the Virginia Genealogy Magazine

  

 My last day at the National Genealogical Society Family History Conference in Fort Wayne included five classes and the NGS luncheon. Once again, I was reminded of the incredible depth of knowledge shared by the conference speakers. Every session offered valuable insights, new research strategies, and fresh perspectives on family history. Beyond the classrooms, the Exhibit Hall remained a favorite destination, filled with vendors, organizations, and fellow genealogists eager to share resources and ideas.

Speaker Leslie Anderson

Speaker Dr. Shelley Viola Murphy

   During the luncheon, NGS announced that the 2027 Family History Conference will be held in Madison, Wisconsin. That is yet another state I have never visited! One of the unexpected benefits of attending NGS conferences has been the opportunity to travel to extraordinary places throughout the United States that I might never have otherwise experienced. Perhaps one day NGS will even venture north and host a conference in Canada.

 

NGS luncheon - Crist Cowan was the speaker

Dr. Jones' lecture - Permission granted for photo

Good friend and speaker Colleen Robledo-Greene. Who's photobombing us?

Speaker Andre Kearns, whom I met last year in Louisville

Friend Benita Steyer

Author and Professional Genealogist Darcie Hind Posz - First time meeting her in person!

Photo by Lillian Wingate

   Although the conference portion of my trip is coming to an end, my Fort Wayne adventure is far from over. I still have two full days of research planned at the world-famous Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center. What treasures await discovery? What record or clue might finally help me break through one of my family's longstanding brick walls? The possibilities are exciting, and I am eager to begin.

 

   Thank you, NGS, for another outstanding conference filled with learning, friendship, and inspiration.

 

See you in Madison!