How popular is genealogy? Perhaps you have heard it’s the second most popular hobby in America or is one of the most popular topics on the World Wide Web.

John C. Coccaro is county Extension director. Write to him at 1100-C Grove St., Vicksburg, MS 39180 or call 601-636-5442 or e-mail.

Though genealogy experts don’t believe the hobby is as popular as often claimed, they do agree that it is very popular. 

For proof, FamilySearch.org and Ancestry.com are some of the most popular sites on the Web with hundreds of thousands of users. In addition, genealogy libraries and Family History Centers serve thousands of patrons each day. Back some years ago, American Demographics magazine conducted a survey, which reported that some 113 million adults in the country, or four out of 10 of us, were at least somewhat interested in family history. 

For those of you who would like to learn more about the pastime, the Extension Service is hosting a genealogy fair Friday afternoon.

Mariah Smith, Extension instructor in the computer applications department, has lined up several experts to teach various aspects of genealogy research. This fair is in response to the positive feedback we received following a one-hour genealogy session at the Extension office in June. Smith suggests Friday’s event may be of particular interest to historical and genealogical societies. She points out, too, that it might be of interest to high school teachers or students.

Our speakers include a certified genealogist who publishes genealogical and historical books, a Mississippi State University librarian who specializes in genealogy and a retired professor with a passion for uncovering family secrets. These guest speakers will cover a wide array of topics such as beginning your genealogy search, using courthouse records, using military pensions and preserving family memorabilia.

Perhaps the growth in the popularity of genealogy is partially due to the fact that it provides a lot of fun. At the same time, it enriches your knowledge of history. Through genealogy, one can not only learn about one’s ancestors, but also about one’s self.

If you go

The Warren County Extension Service, 1100-C Grove St., will host a genealogy fair Friday. The schedule:

• Noon-1:15 p.m. — Beginning Genealogy Research: A Primer for Beginners, by Betty Wiltshire

• 1:15-1:30 — Break

• 1:30-2:45 — Using Courthouse Records, by Lynn

Mueller

• 2:45-3 — Break

• 3-4:15 — Using Civil War Pension Records in Genealogy Research, by Edwin Ellis

• 4:15-4:30 — Break

• 4:30-5 — Preserving Memories and Converting Photos to Fabric, by Mariah Smith

Also, don’t forget about the Extension Service’s First Tuesday Gardening Series. This week’s, from noon to 1 p.m., will feature Get Out Spring Blooming Bulbs, a lecture by Area Horticulture Agent Donna Beliech. Admission is free, and participants are encouraged to bring lunch. Call 601-636-5442 for details.