My Experience
Claire Gene Esker
Highwood, IL | 847-220-7893 | claire@pastforwardfamilyhistory.com | pastforwardfamilyhistory.com
Family historian with MSc in Genealogical, Paleographic, and Heraldic Studies from the University of Strathclyde and Professional Learning Certificate in Genealogical Studies in American Records from the International Institute of Genealogical Studies. Maintains a strong interest in Eastern European and social history research.
Experience
Manager and Family Historian, Past Forward Family History
April 2021 - Current
Manages and runs an independent family history and genealogical research firm specializing in Polish records, but with experience in United Kingdom and Great Britain, Midwestern, and Jewish research.
Volunteer, Polish Genealogical Society of America
November 2020 - Current
Currently serving as Secretary of the Board, liaising with other professional organizations and helping to facilitate programming such as the annual conference; also served as a volunteer researcher, as well as a transcription project lead and 2021 conference speaker.
Education
Master of Science in Genealogical, Paleographic, and Heraldic Studies
University of Strathclyde
September 2018 - November 2020
Received degree with merit and thesis is now held with underlying research at the Newberry Library and Polish Museum of America.
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Comparative Politics)
Carthage College
September 2004 - May 2010
Graduated magna cum laude and was recipient of departmental senior award; also inducted into Alpha Chi National College Honors Fraternity.
Skills
Knowledge of read French.
Maintaining regular study of read Polish grammar.
Experience in translating German Gothic script records.
Strong public speaking ability and available to present both in person and virtually.
Affiliations
Illinois State Genealogical Society (ISGS), Association of Professional Genealogists (APG), Register of Qualified Genealogists (RQG), Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois (JGSI) Polish Genealogical Society of America (PGSA); 2023 graduate of ProGen 56.