Featured Conference Events

JAMES DENT WALKER MEMORIAL LECTURE SERIES

NGS and the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society present the 4th Annual James Dent Walker Lecture series. African-American family history researchers encounter many brick walls, and the methodology used to solve these research quandaries benefits all genealogy researchers. The memorial lecture series honors James Dent Walker, the founder of AAHGS. Mr. Walker was elected to the National Genealogy Hall of Fame in 1999 and was a fellow and second vice president of NGS.

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BCG SKILLBUILDING TRACK

NGS and the Board for Certification of Genealogists present the annual BCG Skillbuilding lectures throughout the conference. These lectures are a highlight of NGS Family History Conferences, and include case studies emphasizing the use of the genealogical proof standard.

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APG DAY IN THE LIFE OF A PROFESSIONAL GENEALOGIST TRACK

NGS and the Association of Professional Genealogists are pleased to bring you the APG Day in the Life Track throughout the conference. This new series gives you a closer look at the day-to-day of a professional genealogist, with a focus on Forensic Genealogy, Next-of-Kin Research/DNA/Investigative Genetic Genealogy, and More Jobs in Genealogy.

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LUNCHEONS

Join your friends and colleagues for several special lunch programs at the Grand Wayne Convention Center. Daily luncheons hosted by genealogy organizations provide networking opportunities, education, and sometimes door prizes. Advance purchase for these meals closes 1 May 2026.

BCG Luncheon: The Evolution of Standards for Genealogists ($45)

Thursday, 28 May – 12:15 – 2:00 pm

Speaker: Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, CGG

Published standards for genealogists first appeared in 2000, but their roots extend to the early 1900s. How and why did genealogical standards arise? And how did they evolve into the standards that guide serious genealogists today?

Join the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) for lunch and learning about the history of genealogy standards.

Topic Tables Luncheon ($45)

Thursday, 28 May – 12:15 – 2:00 pm

Select the topic of your choice and dine with other attendees interested in the same topic. There is no speaker or program, just a chance to meet other attendees with similar interests!

ACPL Luncheon: The Power of Story – Why Our Family History Research Matters So Much ($45)

Friday, 29 May – 12:15 – 2:00 pm

Speaker: Curt Witcher, MLS, FUGA, IGSF

Acclaimed American writer Alice Walker pondered, “How simple a thing it seems to me that to know ourselves as we are, we must know our mothers’ names.” Hear and share again the power of our families’ stories.

NGS Luncheon & Awards: What America’s Families Are Still Hiding: A Genealogist’s Confession ($45)

Saturday, 30 May – 12:15 – 2:00 pm

Speaker: Crista Cowan

Known worldwide as the Barefoot Genealogist, Cowan has served for more than twenty years as Ancestry’s corporate genealogist. In addition, she is a small business owner, media personality, author, podcaster, and dedicated world traveler who shares her passion for family history and travel with many lucky nieces and nephews.
After spending a season hosting Stories That Live In Us and gathering family history stories from all fifty states—stories of immigration, migration, courage, and community that span America’s 250 years—Cowan has learned something uncomfortable about the work we do and what we do with it when we’re done. In her talk, she’ll share what she discovered and give you a clear, actionable plan to transform your research from a private archive into a living legacy before it’s too late.

EVENING EVENTS

Expo Hall Opening and Reception

Wednesday, May 27 | 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Join us as we kick off the conference with the Expo Hall Opening and Welcome Reception! Be among the first to explore the exhibit hall, connect with exhibitors, and discover the latest innovations and resources in the genealogy field. Enjoy light refreshments and great conversation as you network with colleagues, friends, and industry leaders in a lively, informal setting. This event sets the stage for an inspiring and engaging conference experience—don’t miss it!

Tour04 Lindenwood Cemetery Walking Tour & Optional Meet-Up at JK O’Donnell’s ($40)

Thursday, May 28 | 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Lindenwood Cemetery Chapel

Discover the rich history, artistry, and stories of one of Fort Wayne’s most beautiful and historic landmarks during this guided walking tour of Lindenwood Cemetery. Established in 1859, Lindenwood features winding pathways, striking monuments, and the final resting places of notable local figures. As you explore, you’ll learn about the cemetery’s design, symbolism found in Victorian-era gravestones, and the lives of the people who helped shape Fort Wayne’s past.

Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. This is an outdoor tour across uneven ground.

After the tour, you’re invited to continue the conversation at JK O’Donnell’s Irish Pub in downtown Fort Wayne. This optional meet-up is a great opportunity to relax, enjoy refreshments, and connect with fellow participants in a casual setting.

Join us for an engaging blend of local history, architecture, and community connection.

The price includes bus transportation. After the cemetery, the bus will make stops at both the Convention Center and JK O’Donnell’s Irish Pub. There will be no bus transportation after the gathering at JK O’Donnell’s Irish Pub – it is within walking distance of all conference hotels.

Tour05 NGS Trivia Night at Electric Works ($40)

Friday, May 29 | 7:00 – 9:00 pm

Union Street Market at Electric Works

Join the National Genealogical Society for a lively and engaging Trivia Night at the Union Street Market at Electric Works, one of Fort Wayne’s most dynamic and historic innovation campuses. This fun-filled evening brings together genealogy enthusiasts, history fans, and conference attendees for a friendly competition that tests your knowledge of family history, local heritage, pop culture, and more.

Gather your team, or join one when you arrive, and put your skills to the test as you work through multiple rounds of trivia designed to entertain, challenge, and spark great conversation. Whether you’re a seasoned researcher or simply love a good brain teaser, this event offers something for everyone.

Located in the revitalized Electric Works District, the venue provides a vibrant atmosphere perfect for socializing, unwinding after the conference day, and connecting with fellow genealogists from around the country.

Prizes, bragging rights, and plenty of laughs await. Come enjoy a memorable night of camaraderie, creativity, and competitive fun!

The price includes bus transportation. Food and drinks may be purchased on your own at one of the many outlets in the food hall.

Questions? Contact the NGS Registrar at [email protected]