FORT KENT, Maine – The Acadian Archives at the University of Maine at Fort Kent will host a free genealogy workshop at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19 to help researchers navigate Catholic Church sacramental records.
In the St. John Valley, church records are essential genealogical resources. However, recordkeeping varies considerably by location and era. Researchers must contend with inconsistent notations or unfamiliar historical terms.
Participants will learn where to find these records, how to decipher them, and how to interpret expressions like, what did it mean to have a child “ondoyé”? What was “prohibited time”? Understanding such terms can help shed new light on the lives of our ancestors.
“Genealogy workshops have become one of our most popular series,” Patrick Lacroix, director of the Acadian Archives, said. “It is an opportunity to learn and share questions in a welcoming and relaxed setting.”
Archives staff will lead the introductory session and be available to answer questions and help attendees work through research challenges.
The workshop is free and open to community members, but participants should register in advance to guarantee a seat.
To register or request more information, please contact the Archives at 207-834-7535 during business hours or email acadian@maine.edu.
