Julie Gontarek
ProGen Member Overview
I started doing genealogy over 25 years ago when my mother handed me a box of papers, pictures and memorabilia she inherited from her mother and asked me to organize it. In the box was a family tree that my great-grandmother prepared. I was fascinated to see the names of my ancestors and became curious about them. Hence, the addiction began!
Initially, I only focused on my own family's history, but now enjoying helping others learn about their roots and history. I love to research in new localities and learn new things!!! I live 20 minutes away from the Tennessee Archives in downtown Nashville as well as several repositories in Williamson and Davidson County, Tennessee. I am more than happy to do record look ups!!
Education
Genealogy Education:
* Research Like a Pro Study Group - February 2020
* GRIP Law School for Genealogists - June 2022
* Genealogy Source Citations Simplified - June 2022
* NGS American Genealogy Studies Program - completed December 2022
* SLIG Metes & Bounds Land Platting - January 2023
* ProGen 63 - completed December 2023
* Countless podcasts and webinars
College Education:
B.A. of Computer Science at Washington and Lee University with a concentration in Accounting
Experience
I have over 25 years of genealogical experience and have completed reports in a variety of states including Tennessee, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Alabama, Ohio, Virginia and West Virginia.
I also love to perform land research in the county where I reside (Williamson County, Tennessee). I especially love uncovering the history of neighborhoods, subdivisions and homes in Williamson and Davidson Counties.
I have also performed Jewish genealogical research focusing on families immigrating to the United States in the early 20th century.