Graveyard Gossip
March 2025: Woman's History Month & Learning Opportunities!
February 2025 is upon us, and boy do I hope and pray it’s much kinder than January.
My name is Aryn. I'm a genealogist and researcher working to help others learn more about their family history, the social history of the world those ancestors lived in, and how to use this knowledge to shape well-rounded, true stories about those who came before us. To learn more about this Substack and my love of history, family history, and genealogy – head here!
The Focus of March is: Women
It’s Women’s History Month, and as you may already know — researching women can be a difficult and daunting task. However, it is still possible if you know where to look and how to think outside the box.
This Month’s Featured Article will be on three woman: Jannetje Johanna Schaft - better known as Hannie Schaft, Truus and Freddie Oversteegen.
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Hannie Schaft, Truus and Freddie Oversteegen were resistance fighters in the Netherlands during World War II. All three women worked to helped to defeat the Nazi and Nazi sympathizers in Holland.
Recently, a meme began to circulate social media calling for a movie about Freddie Oversteegen — while I do not disagree with the sentiment, their story is combined. To understand one, you must know all three.
My post on all three of them will arrive in your inbox later this month!
Research Tip:
Tips for Tracing Your Female Ancestors
Legal Records - Legal documents can hold a trove of hidden information about female relatives. From Last Will and Testaments to Court Records, legal records should always be considered when conducting research.
Local Historical Societies - they often have collection of personal papers, diaries, and local newspapers.
Resistance Organization Archives - sites like The Freedom Archives, the National Archives, or Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics have holdings of information that may be able to help you explore and learn more about your female ancestors.
Need help researching your family history? Schedule a consultation today!
From Novel to Research: Webinar
If you are looking to learn more about using your genealogical research to write creative nonfiction and historical fiction novels — check out one of my upcoming webinars.
Also check out my paid level which includes posts on using genealogical research to write creative nonfiction or historical fiction, a writer’s critique group meetup, and more!
What’s Coming Next?
Next week is my official launch on YouTube. I will be starting at the beginning!! Which means — ORGANIZATION! Because if you aren’t organized, you are likely to lose or misplace the information you have.
If you haven’t already followed me over there — you can do it right now!
If you follow me on TikTok — I am no longer active. Apologies. For quick “how to” tips and free resources — follow me on Instagram, Bluesky, or here, on Substack!
Also: Join my Chat or follow my Notes for updates!
What You Missed
If you haven’t already check them out — there is still time!
Gabriel's Stand - Freedom & Equality in 1800:
The story of Gabriel Prosser - the enslaved man from Virginia who planned a revolt.
Jean Seberg vs the FBI:
The story of Jean Seberg — beloved actress who was targeted by the FBI for her support of the Civil Right Movement.
Emma Goldman and the Palmer Raids:
The story of Emma Goldman — anarchist and champion of women’s equality.
The Story of Eliza "Lyda" Burton Conley:
The story of Lyda Conley — a native American woman who went to the supreme court to protect her families burial ground.
Know someone who is excited about Family History or Genealogy?
Share this post so they can be up to date on all things Genealogy and Genealogy by Aryn!
More News!
COMING IN APRIL: Keep an eye out for a FREE Webinar via the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana. More on that soon!
Genealogy News
African American Genealogy News!! News coming out of East Texas — if you’re researching your African American Ancestors in America be sure to look for the 1870 U.S. Federal Census. The 1870 Census was the first after the Emancipation and may hold news of your ancestors. Learn more here.
Considering taking an DNA test to better help you understand your Family History? The New York Times decided to weigh your options for you - it’s AncestryDNA vs FamilyTree DNA. (But remember you can always do both… upload your AncestryDNA to FamilyTree DNA)
Writing & Genealogy Specials & Services:
Genealogical Research Concierge Service - Designed to be cost-effective, the Genealogical Research Concierge Service allows me to work alongside you on a specific research question.
*NEW* Genealogy Coaching - Coaching service designed to assist you when you need practical advice, but don’t want to hire a genealogist full time.
*NEW* Writing Coach Services - Coaching service designed to help you write your Family History Novel or feedback on the novel you’ve written.
Paid Subscriptions on Substack! Including the From Research to Novel Webinar, subscribers critique group, and one-on-one conversations about your writing projects!
Until next time!!
To learn more about about Genealogy by Aryn - head over to GenealogybyAryn.com, stop by and say hello on Bluesky - Instagram - Facebook - YouTube
Be sure to check out my Etsy Shop and stop by my Genealogy Shop.
For more information about my Genealogical Services visit GenealogyByAryn.com or email me at aryn.genealogy@gmail.com. For more information on Writing Services - visit ASYounglesAuthor.com