Jul 26, 2023

“The process of volunteering with the Wilford Woodruff Papers Foundation was a timely and heaven-sent blessing,” shares Michelle Hall. “I’ve been able to find family members and make connections on my husband’s side because of the valiant recordkeeping of Wilford Woodruff. He had connections to many of God’s children, and being a part of researching those individuals he mentions throughout his papers is extensive and exciting!”

Michelle had been praying for an internship opportunity for several months when a message appeared on a genealogical social media page looking for interns. She immediately applied, went through the interview process, and was accepted as a volunteer. She was especially thrilled about the opportunity because Wilford Woodruff is her third-great-grandfather. 

She says, “Because of him, I developed a love for journaling, recordkeeping, and family history early on in my life. This is a wonderful opportunity to take the baton from him as his granddaughter, to research his journals, letters, and other documents, and ultimately help gather Israel.” 

Michelle’s work as a volunteer includes writing genealogical citations and simple biographies and producing accurate genealogical research for New England and Utah. As a volunteer she is detail oriented and proficient in FamilySearch, Ancestry, and Google Drive. 

Michelle is excited about the work she will continue to do as a volunteer. “As I continue to learn and increase my knowledge of family history through this divinely inspired project, the spirit of the Lord and my loved ones will light the path and help guide me to those mentioned in Wilford’s records.”

To learn more about becoming a volunteer for the Wilford Woodruff Papers Foundation, please reach out to us at contact@wilfordwoodruffpapers.org or go to wilfordwoodruffpapers.org/volunteer.