Ancestral Lives in 19th Century State Hospitals and Asylums in California and Beyond

Do you have an ancestor who spent time in a 19th-century state mental hospital or asylum? This lecture explores the unique challenges and resources for navigating these overlooked institutions. We will discuss strategies for locating records when available and social history sources for uncovering the daily lives of patients so you can tell a family history story that offers a deeper understanding of their lives.  

Gena Philibert-Ortega is an author, researcher, and instructor specializing in the use of social history and material culture to tell the story of historical women's lives. She holds two master's degrees: one in Interdisciplinary Studies (Psychology and Women's Studies) and the other in Religion. A highly sought-after instructor, Gena has taught material culture and social history at the Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh and the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy and is a frequent presenter at seminars and conferences. 

Register in advance and receive an e-mail with the Zoom link on the day of the event.