Presentations at Upcoming Meetings
March 2026
DATE: Saturday, March 14, 2026, 12:00 noon (Mountain Time)
LOCATION: Idaho State Archives (Idaho History Center), 2205 Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise
SPEAKER: Jamie Lee McManus Mayhew
TOPIC: Decades of Data: Understanding the Evolution of Census Questions
This talk explores how U.S. Census questions have changed from 1790 through 1950 and what those changes mean for genealogical research. We'll look at why certain questions appeared, disappeared, or shifted over time, and how those shifts reflect broader social and political priorities. Attendees will learn how to interpret their ancestors' census entries within the context of each decade's unique questions, gaining deeper insight into both the records and the people behind them.
Speaker Bio
Jamie Lee McManus Mayhew (PLCGS) is the heart and soul behind California Cousins, where genealogical puzzles meet their match. Jamie's adventure into the annals of history began as a teenager, with her mother as her first mentor. In 2010, she channeled this fervor into founding California Cousins. Whether you're a history buff, a mystery lover, or someone yearning to connect with your roots, Jamie Lee McManus Mayhew is your go-to-guide in the enchanting world of genealogy.
April 2026
DATE: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 12:00 noon (Mountain Time)
LOCATION: Idaho State Archives (Idaho History Center), 2205 Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise
SPEAKER: Steven Scanlin
TOPIC: Wills and Probate Records
Wills and probate records are valuable resources for family historians. Learn more about holographic and solemnized wills, trusts, and advanced directives. Also covered will be probate issues including the various kinds of probate such as affidavits of small estate, affidavits of non-probate and informal and formal probate.
Speaker Bio
Steven Scanlin is engaged in private legal practice in Boise and previously served as Deputy Attorney General for the State of Idaho. His current practice includes elder law, guardianships, estate planning, wills, trusts, and probate matters. Mr. Scanlin has delivered and published numerous courses related to probate procedures and estate planning. He is a Vietnam-era veteran of both the U.S. Naval Reserve and Marine Corps. Mr. Scanlin is the Vice President of the Idaho Genealogical Society and a Past President. His personal interests include fishing, golf, photography, historic preservation, downhill skiing, and genealogy.
May 2026
DATE: Saturday, May 9, 2026, 12:00 noon (Mountain Time)
LOCATION: Idaho State Archives (Idaho History Center), 2205 Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise
SPEAKER: Angie K. Davis, MA, CA
TOPIC: Idaho State Archives
Angie Davis, Collections-Outreach Archivist at the Idaho State Archives will provide a brief background on the archives and what the archives collects, and will provide an overview on finding and using the resources held at the archives.
All monthly meeting presentations are free and open to the public, both in person and via Zoom. Society members receive meeting notifications that include the pertinent Zoom information. Nonmembers may request the Zoom link during the week each meeting is held by sending an email to