The Delaware Public Archives is excited to announce the launch of an enhanced State of Delaware Historical Markers Map, now available on our website. Built on ArcGIS in collaboration with DE FirstMap, this dynamic tool brings Delaware’s rich history to your fingertips.

With just a few clicks, users can explore all the state’s official historical markers, discover detailed information about each site, and easily navigate to related content on our website. The map offers powerful filtering options, allowing you to search by marker category, city, and Historical Categories such as America’s 250th anniversary, Black History, Hundreds, Native American heritage, and Women’s History.

Whether you’re planning a road trip, researching local history, or simply curious about the stories that shaped the First State, the State of Delaware Historical Markers Map is your gateway to exploring Delaware’s past in an interactive, user-friendly format.

Discover it now at: https://archives.delaware.gov/delaware-historical-markers/

If you have questions, or for more information, please email historicalmarkers@delaware.gov.

About the State of Delaware Historical Markers Program:

The State of Delaware Historical Markers Program traces its origins to 1929, when Governor C. Douglass Buck appointed a committee to review Delaware’s notable historic sites and develop a way to identify them. In 1931, the General Assembly of Delaware passed an act establishing a commission to erect historical markers throughout the state. The markers in each county were numbered sequentially as they were proposed, preceded by NC (New Castle), K (Kent), and S (Sussex) to note the county in which they were located. Since the 1930s, the State of Delaware has erected over 700 markers. The Delaware Public Archives has administered the Historical Markers Program since 1990.

For more information about the Delaware Public Archives or to learn more about events and other items of interest at the Archives, visit the website at archives.delaware.gov.

A California man has been sentenced to life in prison for the rape and murder of a 15-year-old girl 40 years ago. Gary Gene Ramirez, 78, entered a no contest plea in May to the murder of Karen Stitt, who was stabbed 59 times after she was left waiting at a bus stop in Palo Alto in 1982.

Karen was on a date with her boyfriend David Woods on September 2, 1982, where they played video games and mini-golf before he dropped her off at the bus stop just after midnight. Woods left the teen, who was waiting for the route 22 bus to take her the 10-mile (16km) journey home to Sunnyvale, after he became anxious about being late and his parents finding out.

A delivery driver found the girl’s naked body behind a blood-stained cinder block wall just 100 yards from the bus stop the next morning. She had been stabbed in the neck, abdomen and chest and had her wrists tied with her shirt, with her jacket tied around her ankle.

Breakthrough After Decades

Police had been baffled by the crime for almost 40 years until a tip-off in 2019 told them Karen’s killer was one of four brothers from Fresno, California. Detectives then started working with genetic genealogy experts who compared DNA found at the crime scene with samples from the brothers’ children.

This led them to Ramirez, who was arrested at his home in Maui, Hawaii on August 2, 2022. The 75-year-old simply replied: “Oh, my gosh” when police approached him. 

Ramirez had led an unassuming life with no prior criminal record and had various jobs, including working as an exterminator in Hawaii after serving in the US Air Force. He had been married twice and had two children and nobody had ever suspected he was involved in one of the West Coast’s most notorious unsolved crimes.

Emotional Sentencing Hearing

At his no contest plea, Ramirez sat motionless in the courtroom as victim impact statements were read out. Karen’s best friend Tracy Lancaster said: “Since Karen was brutally taken from us, there have been many unanswered questions - ‘why’ being the biggest.”

Friend Michael Calhoun added: “Just because you’ve been caught, finally, and you will start serving your sentence - your punishment for your brutally gruesome crime - there will still never be closure. Karen is gone. We will never get her back.” 

Karen’s boyfriend David Woods, who was on that final date with her, was in court with his wife for the hearing. He told the court: “His heinous crime, that ended her life in such a horrific way, has caused deep heartache and continued suffering for the many that loved Karen Stitt.”

Ramirez was sentenced to life in prison and will only be eligible for parole after 25 years. Karen’s father and sister had died before seeing justice done, but her remaining family members expressed relief at finally getting answers after more than four decades of uncertainty.

Wyoming’s museums, historical societies, archives and cultural heritage institutions can access free, professional archival expertise through the Wyoming Roving Archivist Program.

The program is welcoming Morgan Stence as the new roving archivist, ready to visit institutions across the state to help preserve and share Wyoming’s irreplaceable historical collections.

“We know that many of Wyoming’s cultural heritage institutions want to better care for their collection, but may not know where to start or lack the resources for professional consultation,” Marcie Blaylock, reference historian and archivist for the Wyoming State Archives, said in a news release. “The Roving Archivist Program brings that expertise directly to you — at no cost to your institution.”

The program offers comprehensive, on-site assessments that help institutions understand their collections’ needs and develop realistic improvement plans.

Applications are now open, and institutions across Wyoming are encouraged to apply. The program serves museums, historical societies, archives, libraries with special collections, tribal cultural centers and any organization caring for historical materials.

Apply online at tinyurl.com/wyo-roving-archivist-app.

For more information about the Roving Archivist Program, visit online at rovingarchivist.wyo.gov.

Throughout the fall, visitors at Ohio University’s Alden Library will have an opportunity to view historical materials collected by the League of Women Voters of Athens County (LWVAC) in a student-curated exhibit. The exhibit will be on display on the 4th floor and will be celebrated with an opening reception on September 16th at 6pm in the 4th floor lounge.

The exhibit, Venturing Into Voting , includes publications, pamphlets, and ephemera which document the League’s history of activism and outreach since the Athens County chapter formed in April 1949. While the materials cover a wide range of issues spanning 70+ years, they also underscore the organization’s steadfast mission to promote informed voting.

Materials featured in the exhibit are sourced from the LWVAC records, an archival collection housed in the Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections. Since 1972, LWVAC organizers have donated local League records, publications, research files, and memorabilia to the Libraries’ archives where they can be accessed by students and researchers.

During the spring 2025 semester, Manuscripts Archives Intern, Alexis Reynolds, was tasked with processing the LWVAC records. Under the supervision of Manuscripts Archivist, Greta Suiter, she reviewed, arranged, and documented more than 30 boxes of content to be added to the collection finding aid so that future users can navigate it with ease. Reynolds reflects on this experience in a blog post, noting the connection between past and present through LWVAC’s 75-year legacy and continuous involvement here in Athens.

Reynolds, a junior studying English and World Religions, also curated the exhibition which highlights some of the unique artifacts she uncovered while processing the collection. In addition to national publications, the display features documents, reports, and print materials produced by the League’s local chapter.

Items selected for display illustrate the broad range of issues addressed by LWV throughout the years, including civil rights, climate action, health care reform, foreign policy, and more. According to Reynolds, “anyone who sees these pamphlets will understand just by looking at them that LWV was involved in various different issues across the years, some or all of which are still relevant today.”

The exhibit opening planned for September 16th coincides with National Voter Registration Day and will feature remarks from Professor Emerita Dr. Katherine Jellison about her involvement with the League.

For more information, please contact Greta Suiter at suiter@ohio.edu.

Ontario Ancestors is currently accepting proposals for our monthly 2026 Webinar Series. Our live webinars will take place on the first Thursday of the month at 7pm ET using the Zoom platform. These sessions are open to everyone.

Topics of Interest

We invite proposals on a wide range of topics, but the most popular topics for our members are:

Methods and Tools for Research - AI use in Genealogy, Where to Research - Archives, Digital Collections,

Municipalities, Public Libraries, Universities, Organizing & Storing Digital & Physical Records, Research

Methodology & Procedures (proof standards, citation, copyright...), DNA/Genetic Genealogy –

Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced, Research Planning/Execution – effective & efficient

Preserving and Communicating Our Family History - Writing/Publishing Your Family History, Preserving

Family Heirlooms & Photographs, Personal Legacy & Genealogy Will, Contributing to Your Genealogy

Community (indexing, transcribing, donating, volunteering, mentoring, researching), Writing/Publishing

Using Digital Media – Blogs, Social Media, Websites

Records for Research - Land Records (Ontario & Canada), County-specific Research Resources,

Immigration Records, Newspapers, Cemeteries, Religious Records

Researching Ethnic, Religious and Cultural Communities - Protestant Ancestors, Female Ancestors /

Women’s History, Catholic Ancestors, Quaker Ancestors, Indigenous Ancestors.

We are looking for topics on basic, intermediate and advanced levels. Selected speakers need to be prepared to  provide Ontario and/or Canadian specific examples in their presentations as applicable.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: Monday, September 15, 2025 at 11:59pm ET. To submit your proposal please follow this link: https://ogs.on.ca/webinar-submissions/.

Further Information

Speakers may submit up to 3 proposals for consideration.

All submissions will be reviewed but only those chosen will be contacted by Monday, October 1st.

All other submissions will be retained and reviewed throughout the year for potential series, mini-conferences or special topic webinars in the future.

Those chosen speakers will receive an honorarium for their webinar presentation.

About Ontario Ancestors

The Ontario Genealogical Society, founded in 1961, is the leading society in all aspects of Ontario-related family history research, preservation and communication. Our mission is to encourage, bring together and assist those interested in the pursuit of family history and to preserve our Ontario genealogical heritage. The Ontario Genealogical Society is the largest genealogical society inmCanada. Visit us at https:/ /ogs.on.ca

If you have any questions, please contact: Kim Barnsdale at webinar@ogs.on.ca.

Stephen White, who wrote the definitive publication on the early Acadians, "The Genealogical Dictionary of Acadian Families," died Aug. 13.

He was 78 years old and died in a nursing home.

White was born in Massachusetts and is of Acadian descent. He was a resident of Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada.

After becoming a lawyer, he spent 49 years fulfilling his life's work as a full-time genealogist at the Anselme-Chiasson Centre for Acadian Studies at the University of Moncton.

White "dedicated his whole life to preparing the genealogy of every Acadian in the world," Warren Perrin of Lafayette said.

Perrin, an author, attorney and advocate for preserving the Acadians' heritage, said White was "the foremost expert on Cajun genealogy in the world."

White visited Louisiana several times, Perrin said, and would help anyone who asked with their genealogy.

He was awarded many honors for his work, including the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Medal and in May was named an Honorary Member of the Order of Canada, the second-highest award of merit in Canada. He also belonged to several Acadian family associations, including the Fédération Associations de Familles Acadiennes. 

The first Acadians were residents of France who, in the 1600s, settled first in Port-Royale, Nova Scotia, then colonized other parts of Canada's Maritime region.

In the mid-1700s, the British gained control of the region called Acadia and deported the Acadians in what is now called the Great Upheaval or Le Grand Dérangement. Many made their way to Louisiana where their descendants today are called Cajuns.

A new museum telling the story of Clydebank through a range of never-before-displayed objects was officially opened today. 

The facility – located in the basement of Clydebank Library – features displays on the town’s proud industrial past from the world-famous Singer Sewing Machine production to the iconic shipbuilding legacy of John Brown’s and Beardmore Yard .

It also commemorates the bravery and resilience of the people of Clydebank during World War II, when the town was hit by one of the worst bomb strikes in Europe, as well as remembering those who lost their lives during those two days, now known as the Clydebank Blitz.

Members of the public, including two survivors of the Clydebank Blitz, were joined by elected members at the museum today to mark its official opening, while also marking the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day when WWII ended on 15 August 1945.

Councillor William Rooney, Convener of Corporate Services, said: “We’re proud to officially open Clydebank Museum, and it is all the more poignant that we are also marking the anniversary of VJ Day, which signalled the end of World War II, today.

“The Clydebank Blitz has shaped this town, and the museum provides a fantastic opportunity and insight into the strength and spirit of its people in the aftermath, so it’s fitting that we are marking both occasions today.

“This is an absolutely fantastic space which has something of interest for everyone — whether you're looking to trace your family history, explore the town’s industrial roots, or simply enjoy learning more about the place we call home. It's an important part of how we preserve our shared story for future generations.”

The space features a wide range of objects, photographs and artwork reflecting life in the community as well as offering digital access to historical newspapers, maps, and family records.

It has been designed to be welcoming and easy to use, with helpful staff on hand and facilities including digital terminals and a dedicated research room. Community groups and schools are also encouraged to make use of the new centre, with group visits and workshops available to book through the Council.

Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, Vice-Convener of Corporate Services, added: “This new space brings history to life in a way that’s accessible and engaging. It’s not just about looking back—it’s about helping people connect with the stories and heritage that continue to shape Clydebank today.”

The museum and archive is open Monday to Saturday, with late opening on Thursdays. Admission is free.

To find out more about opening hours, current displays, and how to book a group visit, go to https://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/leisure-parks-events/museums-and-galleries/clydebank-museum-and-local-history-archives/

The following is a press release written by the folks at the (U.S.) National Archives and Records Administration:

Family Day at Carter Library Bring your little ones to the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, in Atlanta, GA, on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 10 a.m. ET for a Family Day in honor of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Free children's books will be provided and authors will be there to read their books to the kids. A meet and greet to follow and free crafts will be available. The Boy Next Door On Tuesday, August 19, at 6 p.m. CT, come celebrate President Bill Clinton’s 79th birthday with Carolyn Staley and the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum in Little Rock, AR, during a special event entitled “The Boy Next Door.” During the talk, Staley will reflect on her remarkable 60-year friendship with President Bill Clinton, beginning as neighbors and classmates in high school and continuing through years of near-constant correspondence during his time as governor and president.  Register here for your free tickets to this in-person event. The Cartoons of Clifford Berryman The visual nature of political cartoons are unlike any other form of political commentary, and the creative license offered often captures unique historical perspectives.  Running for Office: Candidates, Campaigns, & the Cartoons of Clifford Berryman, an online exhibit from the National Archives, highlights pieces by renowned cartoonist Clifford K. Berryman, that illustrate the campaign process from the candidates’ decision to run for office to the ultimate outcome of the election. As an added bonus, all the cartoons and images in the virtual exhibit can be downloaded and printed!   This cartoon, printed before the 1948 Presidential election, shows Progressive Party candidate Henry Wallace "flip-flopping"- that is, changing positions - on defense policy. NAID: 306115

The following is a press release issued by the Portsmouth, New Hampshire Public Library:

Levenson Room

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Presented by the library’s Special Collections staff and members of the Ranger Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), these events are free, open to the public, and appropriate for all levels of interest and experience. All levels will learn something new!

Anyone who delves into their family history soon discovers a common frustration: records don’t always tell the same story. Names diverge, dates contradict, place names don’t make sense. When the paper trail splits in two, how do you decide which path leads to the truth? Fortunately, there are a handful of effective strategies that can help you sift through the inconsistencies and find the facts about your ancestors.

No registration required! Just drop in.

About the Presenter

For nearly three decades, B.J. Jamieson has pursued the stories hidden in her family tree, with research adventures that have taken her from local archives to Scotland and Ireland. She has been helping others track down their wayward relatives for almost as long. Along the way, she has earned graduate degrees in both library science and genealogy to improve her research skills.

Just a quick update — the $29 DNA kit sale has been extended through August 17! This is the lowest price this year, and there are just a few more days to grab it. MyHeritage DNA is just $29 If you have been curious about DNA testing, now’s a great time to explore it. MyHeritage offers: An ethnicity breakdown across 79 ethnicities and 2,114 regions A global DNA database of over 9 million users Powerful DNA tools to understand how matches are related Ancient Origins: a unique feature that traces origins back 10,000 years Access to advanced DNA tools and Ancient Origins is available with a Complete or Omni subscription, or a free trial. http://myheritage.com