SOUTHINGTON – For amateur genealogists wondering why their ancestors lived in a developing New England urban area or emigrated west, the virtual program on Tuesday, May 28 may provide clues. This presentation by John E. Putnam will examine the many economic, political and social changes that people faced during this epoch and how these factors influenced their lives.

“Change and Industrialization in Antebellum New England” will be presented at 7 p.m. on screen and via Zoom at the Southington Historical Society, 239 Main St. The program is free and open to the public. Putnam, a 12-generation New Englander, became interested in genealogy at an early age and is a past president of the Pike’s Peak Genealogical Society.

Prior to the presentation, attendees are encouraged to answer several questions regarding their New England ancestors from 1800-1865: “Could you share any family stories about an ancestor(s) during this time who was directly involved in any economic, political or social change movement?” “Did any of your New England ancestors migrate from a rural area to an evolving New England industrial urban area?” Responses can be sent to jeputnam@aol.com with “Southington AB” in the subject line. After the program, Putnam will explore these questions.

Next month’s SGS meeting on June 25 will be “Quebec’s Church Records: An Introduction” with Bryna O’Sullivan of Charter Oak Genealogy.

Now celebrating its 40th year, SGS meets monthly on the fourth Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the historical society. To receive the Zoom link for the virtual programs, email southingtongenealogicalsociety@gmail.com. For more information on SGS, visit http://www.southingtongenealogicalsociety.org or Southington Genealogical Society, Inc. on Facebook.