A vast number of Mississippi researchers have ancestors who came through or to Alabama on the way to our state. If you are one of them, there is a special workshop in the plans that should be of great interest.

The Autuaga Genealogical Society is sponsoring a free workshop titled &uot;Genealogical Research In Alabama.&uot; Scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 18, 2004, the workshop will be conducted at the First United Methodist Church, 100 E. Fourth St., Prattville, Ala., from 1 to 4 p.m. and will be presented by renowned genealogist, Larry E. Caver Jr. of Prattville.

The workshop will consist of two sessions. The first session will present information about early Alabama records including information on settlement periods in Alabama, County formations, the types of genealogical materials that can be found in early County Courthouse records, and many other records that exist in the state.

This first session will also cover records that exist outside the state for Alabama Counties that were created under the Mississippi Territory. Each participant will receive a Program Packet containing a program outline along with case examples of the various types of records that exist.

The second session will address the Historical & Genealogical Societies in Alabama, public and private libraries in Alabama with genealogical holdings and other repositories in the state with genealogical records.

Each participant in this session will receive a resource packet containing material provided by the various historical Societies across the state, as well as information from other agencies and organizations with genealogical holdings.

Remarkably again the seminar is free. Donations will be accepted the day of the workshop to help defer the cost of the event, but the only requirement to actually attend is that you RSVP in advance to assure that there will be enough course material available for all attendees.

The Autuaga Genealogical Society will even be supplying refreshments during the event.

You may register by sending your name and address to the workshop presenter, Larry E. CaverJr., PO Box 680052, Prattville, AL 36068 or by sending him an email confirmation at

lecaverjr@aol.com

.

The timing allows for time for a day trip with a morning drive over to Prattville and time to return home by dark in most cases.

If you need to stay overnight, there are a number of local hotels that are highly recommended including Best Western Inn (334-361-2007); Comfort Inn (334-365-6003); Days Inn & Suites (334-285-5312); Econo Lodge (334-285-5022); Hampton Inn (334-285-6767); Holiday Inn (334-361-6463); Jameson Inn (334-361-6463); Legends at Capital Hill (Resort) and Super 8 Motel (334-365-7250).

Those of you who have already had the pleasure of hearing Mr. Caver speak know what a delightful presentation he makes. As the author of nine genealogical books and a seasoned speaker to groups across the Southeast, he is imminently qualified to give you insight into Alabama research. Mark your calendars now and plan to attend.

Please send your announcements and queries to FAMILY TREES, 900 Main St., Natchez, MS 39120 or email to

Famtree316@aol.com

. All queries printed free of charge. We look forward to hearing from you.