Family History often introduces us to ancestors whose lives are difficult to document. Learn more about discovering the undiscoverable by joining us for Linda Yip’s fascinating talk, hosted by the Kelowna & District Genealogical Society!
Topic: Reconstructing Invisible Lives: A Genealogical Case Study in Evidence, Method, and Stubbornness
Date: Monday, March 2, 2026, 7pm, PST
Presenter: Linda Yip
Location: via Zoom
Price: KDGS members Free; non-members $10; REGISTER HERE, https://kdgs.ca/2026/march-general-meeting/
Bite-size: FamilySearch: Don’t miss these features!, with KDGS member, Claire Smith-Burns
Reconstructing Invisible Lives: A Genealogical Case Study in Evidence, Method, and Stubbornness
Reconstructing Invisible Lives is a one-hour case study on what to do when the records aren’t there. Using a central BC research problem, this talk shows how a woman who barely appears in traditional sources can be rediscovered through tax rolls, court files, and business records. It explores why women, especially racialized women, are often missing from the historical record, and how methods can turn absence into evidence. Attendees will see practical strategies for using local records, legal documents, and negative evidence to solve complex cases. The presentation offers fresh perspectives for experienced researchers and usable techniques for those still building their skills. If you’ve ever hit a brick wall and wondered where the women went, this case study shows how it could be done.
Linda Yip (葉秀映) was born in Vancouver, BC. Her family’s historic home – the Wing Sang Company – is today the site of Canada’s national Chinese Canadian Museum. Linda is an Accredited Genealogist® professional in the region of Canada Western Provinces, encompassing BC, AB, SK, and MB. Linda specializes in researching families whose histories are difficult to trace due to migration, language barriers, or gaps in traditional records. By using a wide range of sources and careful analysis, she helps recover well-documented family stories that might otherwise remain hidden. Linda resides in Saskatoon with her husband.
