Directory of Members

After 15 years of Family History research, Jim Thornhill embarked on a second career, applying his existing experience in research, critical thinking, writing and speaking to genealogy and started Heroes of the Past, a company that seeks to delight clients and tell them about the Heroes of their Pasts.

Jim Thornhill has been researching his family’s history for 20 years, six of those as a professional genealogist.  Jim is chief researcher for Heroes of the Past, a company that seeks to delight clients, provide context in our ancestor’s lives, and show how we all have Heroes in our Pasts.

Jim is a graduate of the Gen Proof and ProGen professional genealogy course, TIGR (Texas and Advanced Southern Research) as well as attending countless live classes and virtual presentations.   He is Past President of the Dallas Genealogical Society, an author for Stirpes, the Journal of the Texas State Genealogical Society, and has spoken for the National Genealogical Society, the Texas State Genealogical Society, and many local societies in North Texas.  Jim is a native Texan who has been living in the Dallas area his entire life and has roots in pre-civil war Texas and Mississippi.

Professional Writing Award, Texas State Genealogical Society, 2022

Speaking about Methodology, the importance of knowing history when researching Family History, society growth and development, I can prepare a presentation on most family history topics

For immediately available presentations see https://www.heroesofthepast.com/genealogy-presentations/, or contact me to discuss your groups needs

In person or virtual, can supply screen, computer, and projector if needed.  Willing to travel.

Van Zandt County Annual Seminar, Walker County Summer Genealogy Weekend, East Texas Genealogical Society Family History Fair Keynote Speaker