The Little Creamer on the Table

You may have read about items I have been fortunate to receive and care for as part of my family history. This small glass creamer is one of those pieces.

It belonged to my grandmother, Daisy Fredricks, and it is the only item I have from her.

Photograph by Brenda Leyndyke

My grandmother came from very humble beginnings, and this creamer reflects that. It is simple pressed glass with a scalloped edge, the kind of everyday piece found in many homes in the early 20th century. Pieces like this were affordable and meant to be used. Today, they are often associated with what collectors call Depression-era glass.

I remember this creamer from visits to her home.

She would make coffee for my mom and set the creamer on the table. There was always a plate of cookies, and for me, a glass of milk.

I can still picture myself sitting at that table.

I do not remember exactly what kind of cookies she served, only that there was always a plate on the table. A few years ago, I shared my grandmother’s oatmeal cookie recipe, written in her own hand. I often wonder if those were the cookies she made when we visited.

I am emotional just writing this. I did not think of these moments as anything special at the time. They were simply part of visiting Grandma. Now, I realize how much those small moments mattered especially since we didn't visit often as we lived hours away from her.

When I look at this creamer today, I think about her hands setting it on the table. I think about the conversations between her and my mom. I think about being included, even as a child, in those quiet visits.

As family historians, we spend a lot of time looking for records and documenting facts. But sometimes it is the everyday items that tell us the most.

This creamer is simple, but it represents something much larger.

It represents a place at the table.

Ten Things I Learned Researching at the National Archives in D.C. and MD

This summer I spent eight days researching at both National Archives I (downtown Washington, D.C.) and National Archives II (College Park, Maryland). It was an eye-opening experience. Each location has its strengths and quirks, and as a first-time researcher at both, I learned a lot, sometimes the hard way. Here are ten takeaways from my visit.

1. The Catalog Is Huge and Overwhelming

The NARA catalog is not as user-friendly as other archives or library catalogs. The Archives has billions of records in its collection. Search terms that seem obvious do not always work, and narrowing down to the right record group can take persistence. I often felt like I was missing something, especially with less-used collections such as lighthouse records or postmaster files.

2. NARA I Staff Are Friendlier

The staff at Archives I were consistently more approachable, patient, and helpful. They guided me through record requests and explained things clearly. At Archives II, the staff felt more rushed and less friendly, and in some cases the interactions felt accusatory.

3. Accusations at NARA II Felt Uncomfortable

At Archives II, staff patrolled the research room checking for declassification tags on documents being scanned. I was asked multiple times: Do you have a tag? Are you using it on every document? Did you take pictures without it? At one point I was even asked if I had put rusty paper clips on the records. It felt accusatory and unnecessary, especially since paper clips would never make it past security. 

4. Supplies Are Easier to Access at NARA I

At Archives I, basic supplies like weights were readily available. At Archives II, you had to ask for everything, even weights, and sometimes sign them out. It slowed the process and added unnecessary frustration when you didn't know where they were. 

5. Wait Times Vary, but NARA I Did Better

At both archives, wait times for record pulls averaged about 45 minutes. NARA I generally handled requests more smoothly. At NARA II, you had to look up box and row information yourself using binders, while NARA I staff filled that in for you. As a beginner, I really appreciated the extra help.

6. Rules Control the Fun

One thing to know before you go: NARA has 86 rules for researchers. They are available online here: Research Room Rules (https://www.archives.gov/research/research-room-rules). It is best to review them in advance so you know what to expect.

7. Cafeteria and Eating Areas at NARA II Were Better

If you want a good lunch during your research break, Archives II is the place. The cafeteria had more options, and the eating area was spacious and newer. NARA I’s food options were far more limited and others said not as good.  

8. Research Assistance Was Stronger at NARA I

At Archives I, I could easily find someone to answer questions about the materials I was using. At NARA II, there was one specialist for Army records, and he was swamped. I often felt on my own.

Neither archive was able to suggest the correct search terms when I asked about German Prisoners of War at Fort Custer. I was repeatedly told to use “Custer,” which returned results about General Custer. Searching “German Prisoners of War” brought up records about United States soldiers held in Germany. The key term turned out to be “enemy prisoners,” which I eventually discovered on my own. Once I tried that, I found far more relevant information. I was also directed to Record Group 394, Continental Commands, which contained cartographic records but not for the time period I needed. In contrast, Record Group 389, Records of the Provost Marshal (1941– ), was filled with information. 

9. Tracking Records Was Hit or Miss

At NARA II, the electronic monitor in the research room made it easy to know when my records were ready. At NARA I, it was inconsistent. Sometimes staff told me my records were upstairs, sometimes to check if they had been submitted downstairs. Once I wasted two and a half hours looking for my lighthouse records before giving up and coming back the next day. Thankfully, that was an exception, not the rule.

10. Strengths of Each Archive

Archives I excels at military and land records, while Archives II is known for 20th-century military records and modern federal agency records. Accuracy was solid at both locations. Only once did I receive the wrong time period for a record request. 

Rules Control the Fun

One thing to know before you go: NARA has 86 rules for researchers. They are available online here: Research Room Rules (https://www.archives.gov/research/research-room-rules). It is best to review them in advance so you know what to expect.

Final Thoughts

Researching at the National Archives can be rewarding, but it requires patience, persistence, and sometimes a thick skin. I am glad I had the chance to experience both NARA I and II. I learned not only about my research subjects but also about how the archives work.

If you are planning a visit, do your homework ahead of time. The NARA website is filled with finding aids and preparation guides that will make your time there more productive. Some resources I found helpful include:

1. Guide to Genealogical Research in the United States (available at HathiTrust)

2. NARA’s Catalog Guide: https://www.archives.gov/research/genealogy/catalog-guide

3. Preliminary Inventories available online through the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne. These help identify the records within each record group. Not all preliminary inventories are digitized here.

4. Prologue Magazine, a NARA publication now out of print, but past issues are available online at archives.gov. It contains a wealth of research tips and background articles.

These tips come from my personal experience, and yours may be different. I spent days preparing for my visit and thought I was ready, only to discover that the archives had even more to teach me. My best advice is to embrace the process and enjoy the experience. Visiting the National Archives had been a dream of mine for years, and finally walking into those research rooms felt like stepping into history itself. No matter the challenges or frustrations, I will always be grateful that I had the chance to be there, to handle original records, and to connect more deeply with the past.

Why Gen-Fed Belongs on Every Genealogist’s Bucket List

This will be one of many blog posts in the coming weeks about my bucket list attendance at the Genealogical Institute on Federal Records (Gen-Fed) in Washington D.C. Here are my thoughts on why you should attend it.

Why You Should Attend the Genealogical Institute on Federal Records

The Genealogical Institute on Federal Records (Gen-Fed) is an exceptional educational opportunity for genealogists who want to deepen their understanding of federal records and how to use them in research. Held annually in Washington, D.C., this institute brings together expert speakers, hands-on research opportunities, and access to world-class archives.

Hands-On Research at the National Archives

One of the greatest benefits of Gen-Fed is the opportunity to conduct hands-on research at both National Archives I (downtown Washington, D.C.) and National Archives II (College Park, Maryland). You’ll learn how to navigate record groups, request materials, and explore documents that may not be digitized anywhere else. These research experiences are invaluable for uncovering details about ancestors who served in the military, worked for the federal government, or were impacted by federal policies.

Access to World-Class Libraries

In addition to the National Archives, Gen-Fed includes visits to other major repositories such as the Library of Congress and the DAR Library. These visits provide participants with guided orientations to the collections, tips from experienced librarians, and at the DAR Library the chance to explore materials that can enrich family history research.

Learn from the Best

The institute brings together expert genealogical speakers, including professionals who work at the National Archives. Attendees gain valuable knowledge through lectures, workshops, and one-on-one interactions. Topics cover NARA research tools, military service and pension files, land and bounty land records, immigration and naturalization, African American research, legislative and court records, and other specialized collections at NARA. Each session provides practical guidance on applying federal resources to real-world genealogical questions.

Camaraderie and Networking

Another advantage of Gen-Fed is the sense of community it fosters. Spending a week with like-minded researchers fosters collaboration, encouragement, and lifelong friendships. Many participants say that the opportunity to network with others who share their passion for genealogy is one of the most rewarding aspects of the institute. Researchers from 24 states and the Netherlands attended this year. They were from various backgrounds, such as, genealogical society leaders, attorneys, authors, librarians, professors, small business owners and more.

Special Events and Opportunities

Attending Gen-Fed is more than a week of classes at the National Archives. It is a unique experience that provides education with unforgettable opportunities. In addition to expert-led sessions on federal records, participants enjoyed special events such as the 75th Anniversary Commemoration and alumni receptions. Optional tours expand the learning beyond the classroom, with highlights including a National Mall tour of more federal records and individual military consultation. Dedicated research time at Archives I (DC) and Archives II (MD) added to the experience. 

 Why Attend?

Attending the Genealogical Institute on Federal Records is an investment in your skills as a researcher. You’ll return home with new knowledge, hands-on experience, and a deeper appreciation for the breadth of resources available at federal institutions. If you’re serious about genealogy and want to take your research to the next level, Gen-Fed is the place to be. 

Additional Thoughts

You may have heard how hard it is to get into the Gen-Fed Institute. There are requirements and it is limited to about 45 researchers, but don't let that discourage you. If you get wait-listed, be patient. This year the entire wait-list was contacted, so the wait-list works. If you want more information check out the Gen-Fed website:  https://www.gen-fed.org/

I almost forgot to mention the 300 page handbook and numerous dropbox resources. It is incredible. I will be busy reading it all in the weeks ahead.

I felt extremely priviledged and grateful to attend this year. My thanks go to Rebecca, the Director and Mary, Assistant Director for their excellent leadership. Also a very special thanks to the Gen-Fed Alumni Association for the Richard S. Lackey Scholarship that I was awarded.

AI Disclosures

This blog post on Journey to the Past was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI), specifically ChatGPT.

The research, interpretation, and writing are my own. AI was used to provide grammar and style suggestions and to generate the outline and headings for this post.

The title was suggested by AI, but I reviewed, edited, and selected the final version.

The photograph used on this blog post was taken by Brenda Leyndyke.

My Gen-Fed Journey-75th Year

This summer I had the privilege of attending the Genealogical Institute on Federal Records (Gen-Fed) during its 75th year. For one week, I joined fellow genealogists in Washington, D.C., to immerse myself in federal records, learn from experts, and dig into the archives. It was truly an honor to be part of such a milestone year.

The week was packed with learning, discovery, and inspiration. The 300-page syllabus alone will keep me busy for months, and the consultations and lectures opened doors to research paths I had not considered before. My time at the National Archives, especially working with primary source materials on lighthouse keepers, Civil War soldiers, and German prisoners of war, gave me confidence and focus for the projects closest to my heart.

Being in Washington during historic times made the experience even more powerful. The city was full of change, but I also found grounding in visiting places where history has long been remembered. The memorials and museums that honor those who came before us offered space for reflection. Standing at these sites reminded me that history is never far from the present.

Gen-Fed was not just about records. It was also about community. Surrounded by genealogists who share the same curiosity and passion, I felt like I belonged to something bigger. The dedication of the directors, Rebecca and Mary, and all who worked so hard behind the scenes, was remarkable. Their energy and leadership made the Institute both welcoming and inspiring.

For me, this was more than an educational program. With my husband living with Alzheimer’s and my mother still with me at 95, I knew this would likely be my last big educational journey. I embraced it as my "last hurrah" and I am so grateful I was able to go.

I returned home with scans, notes, and ideas that will fuel my research for a long time. I plan to share what I have learned with researchers at Fort Custer, with families tracing military ancestors, and with those whose loved ones were once prisoners of war. And of course, I will be writing about my discoveries here on the blog.

Gen-Fed’s 75th year was an unforgettable experience, and one I will carry with me always.

Book Launch Day — and Why I’m Still Proud

Today is the official launch day for my book, Fort Custer in the World Wars. It’s hard to put into words what this moment means. After years of research, writing, editing, and reviewing hundreds of photographs, the book is finally out in the world. It’s real. It’s here.

This isn’t just a collection of images and facts, it’s a tribute. To the soldiers who trained at Fort Custer. To the medical staff who cared for the wounded. To the prisoners of war who lived and worked on the grounds. And to the community that grew around it. Preserving this history matters, and I’m honored to be a small part of it.

While the day didn’t unfold quite the way I imagined, I’m still celebrating because I believe in the power of telling these stories. I’m grateful to my husband Kirk for standing beside me through every page, to the Fort Custer Historical Society for their support, and to the many people who’ve already purchased the book, shared kind words, or reached out.

There are appearances, presentations, and book talks to come, but today, I’m pausing to appreciate what’s been accomplished.

If you’d like to learn more about the book, you can find it through local bookstores, or by contacting me directly.

Thank you for walking this journey with me.

Reverse Genealogy Made Clear: A Look at Cheri Hudson Passey's Insightful Guide

When Joe, the marketing director, at Genealogical.com reached out to ask if I would review Cheri Hudson Passey's new book, "Genealogy in Reverse: Finding the Living A Practical Guild for All Genealogists" I was happy to do it, but I was even happier that he had found my blog and noticed that I was a purchaser of many Genealogical.com publications. The book's focus on tracing forward to find living relatives intrigued me, and I was eager to see how the modern research practice could support traditional genealogical research. I received a complimentary review copy, but as always, the thoughts shared here are entirely my own.

Cheri Hudson Passey combines her writing and genealogical research skill with deep professional experience related to the book's topic. She has worked as a subcontracted researcher for the U.S. Army Past Conflict Repatriations Branch, helping to locate next of kin for families of World War II soldiers who are still listed as Missing in Action. As my regular readers know, I have a strong interest in the stories of WWII soldiers and I found her background adds a layer of real-world credibility to her work on reverse genealogy.

One of the most rewarding reasons to pursue genealogy in reverse is the potential to uncover what traditional research often misses. The stories, photographs, family Bibles, and cherished memorabilia passed down through different branches of a family may hold that one piece of information that has alluded us in our traditional research. 

Book Review

Reverse Genealogy is the process of researching forward to find living relatives, and Passey's book is an excellent guide on how to do that. Step-by-step instructions with real-world examples are central to the book's structure. Sources and resources are clearly outlined and well documented.

A major strength of this book is its emphasis on research ethics. Passey encourages readers to follow sound research practices, including adhering to the Genealogical Proof Standard. She also highlights the importance of privacy, obtaining consent, and being respectful when contacting living individuals.

Genealogy in Reverse is useful for all levels of genealogists. Whether you are a beginning genealogist or an experienced one you will find Passey's book informative and helpful. It is a fresh take on genealogy research and is one I am happy to add to my own toolkit.

Passey explores an area that is rarely discussed in genealogical circles and does so with clarity. She breaks down the research steps into manageable ones. She illustrates the challenges and rewards in doing this type of genealogy using real-world examples.

Passey includes a short section on DNA, emphasizing the need for sensitivity and clear communication about the potential risks involved in testing. She encourages readers to consider whether a DNA test is truly necessary when trying to find living relatives.

One of the things I appreciated the most was her strong emphasis on ethics. It is the central theme throughout the book. She concludes the book with a repatriation case study with names kept private. 

Conclusion

If you are looking for a fresh perspective to your genealogy research look no further than, "Genealogy in Reverse: Finding the Living."  This book is more than a how-to manual, it is a way to expand your research and make new connections. If you are looking for a way to explore modern-day family ties than this is the resource for you. It offers practical insight and ethical guidance in an easy to read way.

You can purchase "Genealogy in Reverse: Finding the Living." from Genealogical Publishing Company at genealogical.com.  It is a worthy addition to any genealogical library. 

Disclaimers

A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me for the purpose of review. I have received no compensation for this review, and the opinions expressed herein are solely my own.

Disclosures
This blog post used the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) tools at Chat GPT4o.

While the content reflects my ideas, writing, and research. AI was used for grammar and spelling editing.

Chat GPT4o suggested blog post titles based upon my writing and ideas and I selected the one, with edits, to enhance the blog experience.

A Letter from Camp Hood: Discovering My Dad’s Words from Basic Training

Source: Glover, Bruce. “Pvt. Bruce (Tex) Glover, Former Sports Editor Writes from Camp Hood, Texas.” The Palladium (Hazel Park, MI), August 1943.Accessed April 15, 2025. MyHeritage Historical Newspaper Collection.

One of the joys of being a genealogist and historian is discovering unexpected treasures in the archives. While browsing old newspaper clippings at MyHeritage, I recently came across a letter to the editor written by my father, Pvt. Bruce “Tex” Glover, during World War II. The letter, published in the Hazel Park (MI) Palladium in August 1943, was sent from Camp Hood, Texas, where he had just arrived for basic training.

Reading his words transported me back to the early days of his military service. I could hear his voice in the humor and sincerity of the letter. He wrote to Mr. Kelster, the editor, whom he had worked for in high school, describing the intense Texas heat and his first impressions of Camp Hood. It’s a snapshot of a young man adjusting to military life far from home and wanting to stay connected.

Here’s the full transcription of the letter:

Pvt. Bruce (Tex) Glover, former sports editor writes from Camp Hood, Texas:

Dear Mr. Kelster:

Well I’m finally located here in Camp Hood, Texas, “Deep In The Heart Of.” Do you remember on certain days before I left how we were complaining of the heat. Well brother, don’t complain any more. It’s 105 - 110 in the shade here all of the time and I’m not kidding. I always wanted to go to Texas but one day here is enough.

The water we are allowed to drink is heavily diluted with sodium-hydro chloride and is warm. It’s hard to get used to in this hot weather but it’s best for you. Bill Fisher is here with me and we would appreciate it if you would send the paper to both of us. Our addresses are at the end of this letter.

We have both passed our tests so far and are in the A.S.T.P. (Army Specialized Training Program). We are beginning a 13-week basic Infantry Training program during which time more tests will be given. If we pass these we will be sent to college.

We had quite a train ride here from Custer. It took us 57 hours in all. We left Custer at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday and arrived here 5:15 p.m. Friday. The train stopped for four hours in Fort Worth, Texas, and the Lt. in charge let us look over the city for two hours. It is quite a nice city. We also passed through Chicago, Kansas City, Wichita, Oklahoma City, and Waco, enroute.

I would appreciate it if you would have Mr. Watson look in the files and see if there are any fellows from Hazel Park here at Camp Hood. If so, would you please send me their address.

Sincerely,
Pvt. Bruce “Tex” Glover
Your former Sports Ed.

Bruce received 4 names of H. P. boys from H. P. stationed at Camp Hood.

To see his personality come through in this letter is a gift. It’s more than just an eighteen-year-old soldier reporting his new surroundings. It’s a glimpse into his character, his experience, and his desire to remain tied to home. Letters like this one help bring the past to life, and I’m grateful to have found it, especially since I never knew my dad had a nickname, Tex and this was before he was sent to Texas!

Have you ever uncovered a letter from a relative in the service? These personal messages offer more than facts, they offer heart. 

Notes: 

H.P. stands for Hazel Park which is in Michigan.

Bill Fisher was a good friend of my dad's. They graduated from Hazel Park High School together. They were together in the Battle of the Bulge until Bill was taken prisoner by the Germans. Bill was on one side of the line the Germans came through and my dad was on the other. They were in the 99th Division.

A Special Delivery: Fort Custer Books Have Arrived!

There is nothing quite like the feeling of holding your book in your hands for the first time. Now imagine that times 200. That was my experience when my shipment of Fort Custer in the World Wars arrived ahead of schedule.

I expected the books to arrive in mid-July, but instead, I was greeted with boxes stacked high, filled with copies of a project I have poured my heart into. It felt a little like Christmas morning. Seeing the final printed version was both exciting and humbling.

This book represents more than just words and photographs. It is a tribute to the people who served, trained, worked, and lived at Fort Custer during both World War I and World War II. The process of researching and writing it has deepened my respect for the men and women whose stories fill its pages.

As soon as the books arrived, I began packing up copies for the friends and family members who ordered or supported me from the beginning. Some were mailed to those with a personal connection to Fort Custer. Others went to fellow history lovers. Each envelope felt like a small gift of remembrance, and I was honored to share it.

I am thrilled to share that several library presentations have already been scheduled. These events give me a chance to speak with readers, answer questions, and share even more stories that did not make it into the book. In addition, a local TV interview(July 14th) is in the works, offering a wonderful opportunity to highlight Fort Custer’s rich history to a broader audience. I will be sharing dates and times soon, so stay tuned.

A book launch is in the works and I will annouce that when I have confirmation of all the details. The Fort Custer Historical Society board is planning it.

I am so proud of how the book turned out and deeply thankful to everyone who encouraged me along the way. Whether you supported the Fort Custer Historical Society, followed the blog, shared a story, or simply cheered me on, I appreciate you.

Books are available for purchase at the Fort Custer Museum (by appointment), Custer's Last Stand at the fort, or by contacting me. If you are interested in a signed copy, feel free to reach out. The book cost is $25, plus shipping which is running between $6-$10. All proceeds go to the Fort Custer Historical Society.

This has been an unforgettable moment in my journey as a writer and historian. I cannot wait to see where the stories of Fort Custer travel next.

Note: I tried contacting my publisher to find out when it will be shipped to vendors, but have not been given a date.