Fest Cultural Forum

Fest Cultural Forum: Beyond the Basics of Geneaology
Taking A Deep Dive Into Your Luxembourg Ancestry

Date: Friday, August 8, 2025

Location: Cedarburg Cultural Center (W62N546 Washington Ave, Cedarburg, WI 53012) 

Light refreshments and educational materials provided.

NOTE: Presentation recording will be made available to members only in Fall 2025.

• LACS Member Ticket: $35
• Non-Member Ticket: $40

TICKET SALES ARE NOW OPEN!

Schedule:

9:30 am: Doors Open/Registration with coffee & pastries

10:00 am: Introduction by LACS Staff

10:15 am: Finding and Reading Luxembourg Records by Jean Ensch

11:00 am: Break

11:15 am: Researching Your Luxembourg Ancestors by Debby Warner Anderson

12:00 am: Joint Q&A Session

12:30 pm: Conclusion

Whether you’re new to genealogy or looking to refine your research skills, this program will equip you with the knowledge to explore Luxembourg’s historical records and trace your ancestry effectively.

Session 1 Presenter: Jean Ensch, founding member of the Luxembourg Genealogical Society

LACS board member Jean Ensch is a founding member of the Luxembourg Genealogical Society (ALGH), President of the Institut Grand-Ducal (Section of linguistics, ethnology, and onomastics). In 2014 he retired from his public service position with the City of Luxembourg after 41 years with the Population Bureau. Jean has conducted research and published extensively in the areas of history, genealogy, demographics and emigration, specifically to the United States. His most recent works include a bibliography on Luxembourg local history dealing with houses and their inhabitants “A la recherche de maisons” and as a contributing author to a biographical and genealogical history of the Luxembourgers in the La Crosse area (Sandra L. Hammes: From Luxembourg to La Crosse and Beyond, 1851-1910), both published in 2017.

Session 2 Presenter: Debby Warner Anderson

Debby began doing genealogy at a very young age while listening to stories her paternal grandmother frequently shared about family members and those that came before. She has been documenting for ten years many of her own discoveries in Debby’s Family Genealogy Blog (www.DebbysFamilyGenealogyBlog.blogspot.com). Debby speaks professionally on topics related to Carrie’s Letters, publishing and basic genealogy.  She belongs to several genealogical/historical societies including Luxembourg American Cultural Society, General Society of Mayflower Descendants, the Alden Kindred of America.  She has contributed articles to the San Diego Genealogical Society newsletter.  Since retiring after 34 years as a Special Educator, Debby enjoys genealogy, attending conferences, scrapbooking, traveling and camping with her furry companion in her camper.

Forum Description:

Uncover your Luxembourg heritage with our Beyond the Basics of Genealogy Program. This event features two presentations designed to help you dive deeper into essential genealogy techniques and practices:

Session 1: Finding and Reading Luxembourg Records by Jean Ensch: Jean will guide you through the resources available for 19th century Luxembourg, focusing on the structure and content of civil records. Jean will also provide key French and German genealogical vocabulary and tips for deciphering old German script, helping you navigate historical documents with confidence.

Session 2: Researching Your Luxembourg Ancestors by Debby Warner Anderson: Follow Debby as she shares her journey to discover her Luxembourg ancestors. In this presentation, Debby will share genealogy techniques and practices to help you on your own research journey. She will also offer guidance on where to find records and resources within the United States.

TICKET SALES ARE NOW OPEN!

Thank You to Our Event Sponsors: 

Madeleine & Roger Dooley

Fernand Lamesch