The special issue of the NGS Quarterly that examined the Jefferson-
Hemings question was, at that time, under the editorship of Elizabeth
Shown Mills, a Fellow of the American Genealogical Society. The
author of at least one of the articles is Helen Leary, also a Fellow
of the American Genealogical Society. Both are professional
genealogists certified by the Board for Certification of
Genealogists, an independent non-profit organization.
Quoting from the American Genealogical Society web site (http://
www.fasg.org/):
"An honorary society, ASG is limited to fifty life-time members
designated as Fellows (identified by the initials FASG)."
"Election to the ASG is based on a candidate's published genealogical
scholarship. Emphasis is upon compiled genealogies and published
works that demonstrate an ability to use primary source material; to
evaluate and analyze data; to properly document evidence; and to
reach sound, logical conclusions presented in a clear and proper
manner."
I would think some, if not all, of these same principals apply to
other fields of study, particularly history. Perhaps those who call
themselves historians could benefit from following the same principals.
As for the National Genealogical Society, the President and Treasurer
resigned a few years ago. Their offices were immediately filled by
currently serving board members until the next regularly held
election. The the office manager was let go. I hardly think this
constitutes the entire leadership. Some third world countries can
only hope for such an orderly transition of leadership.
The "problems" of the National Genealogical Society, if any, have
absolutely nothing to do with the professional integrity of Elizabeth
Shown Mills, the past editor of the NGS Quarterly, or Helen Leary,
the author of the Jefferson-Hemings article, both of whom would
probably object to having their professional reputations impugned on
this list.
_________________
Donald W. Moore, CG(sm)
Antecedents(r) LLC
http://www.antecedents.com
Certified Genealogist and CG are service marks of the Board for
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