Ask The Pros Instruction

Have you ever had a genealogical question involving methodology, historical context, ethnicity, repositories, DNA, etc?   Would you like some tips that would help you find the answer but don’t know who to ask? 

We have the solution!  MVGS is now hosting a new virtual program called “ASK THE PRO.”  Here’s how it works:  
 
Submit your question via the electronic forum using the following steps:
  • Sign in as a member on the MVGS webpage.
  • Go to the MVGS Forums page: https://mvgenealogy.org/forum.php
  • Locate the “ASK THE PRO” forum at the top of the page (only available to members).
  • To ask your question, click on the plus sign in the black circle.
  • Enter a subject and a then type your question and a few details in the message box. 
  • Click Save.
Please keep your questions as straight forward as possible – if you are working on a brick wall, maybe
a few hints will help but remember we are not offering to solve your problem, only assist.   Here is an example:
 
Question:  I’ve been told my ancestors who came to Virginia in the mid-1600s settled in the Northern Neck counties of Northumberland and Westmoreland.  Where would you suggest I begin my search for information on these ancestors?
 
Answer:  Let’s start with some (but not nearly all) of the on-line sources you can reach out to for free from the comfort of your home.    
And here are five places you can visit to do hands on research – but remember to call first to make sure they are open and whether or not they require appointments:
  • The Northern Neck of Virginia Historical Society has a research facility located at 15482 Kings Highway, Montross, Virginia; phone # 804-540-4382.
  • The Westmoreland County Museum & the Westmoreland County Court House – both located at 43 Court Square (Polk Street), Montross, Virginia 22520; phone # 804-493-8440
  • The Mary Ball Washington Museum & Library located at 8346 Mary Ball Road, Lancaster, Virginia; phone # 804-462-7280
  • The Central Rappahannock Heritage Center: 900 Barton St - #111, Fredericksburg, VA 22401; phone # (540) 373-3704
  • The Library of Virginia: 800 Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219-8000; phone # 804-692-3800
And finally:  every person you speak to when contacting the above listed groups/organizations, is another source of possible resources for you to tap into – ask for their recommendations!
 
A program coordinator will forward your question to a genealogist who is well-versed in your subject to develop a response.  Be sure to include your contact information in case more background is needed.
 
Your question and answer along with others will be presented at a bi-monthly virtual presentation starting soon!  This new program is open to all members so everyone can benefit from the Q&A.