Vol. 1, No. 1 — September 2008 · 8 articles

This inaugural issue announces the creation of the Dillman Family Association in 2002 and details the Dillman DNA Project administered by Frank Dillman, which has identified 10 distinct family groups including descendants of Hans Georg Dillmann and the discovery that some Stillmans are related Dillmans through Georg Adam Dillmann who was captured during the Revolutionary War. The newsletter recaps Mega-Reunion #4 held in Indianapolis with about 40 attendees, announces a planned 2009 mini-reunion trip to Germany to visit ancestral locations, and lists upcoming family reunions for descendants of Frank & Minnie Walker Dillman, Andrew & Elizabeth Bruner Dillman, Rev. C.K. & Bertha Eckleberger Dillman, and Peter Dillman. Editor Phil Dillman shares his personal story of developing interest in genealogy, and the issue includes membership information ($10 for two years) and a call for submissions.

Vol. 1, No. 2 — December 2008 · 8 articles

This issue features an article on the first recorded appearances of various Dillman surname spellings from 940-1750 across Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, UK, and France, compiled by Gabrielle Hippler. It includes coverage of the Dillman-Dayga family group tracing back to Jacob Dillman Dayga who immigrated from Germany around 1737/1740, along with details about a planned Germany heritage tour for September-October 2009 visiting ancestral villages associated with six identified DNA family groups. The newsletter also highlights Dillman businesses discovered by the editor, upcoming family reunions for various Dillman lines, and a family story about the Dillman barber tradition in the Chicago area.

Vol. 1, No. 3 — March 2009 · 6 articles

This issue focuses heavily on the upcoming “Germany 2009” heritage trip scheduled for October, including detailed descriptions of destinations Weilburg, Heidelberg, and Ravensburg, registration forms, and an introduction to tour guide Uli Buschmann. Major genealogical breakthroughs are reported, including the connection between Betsy Dillman Ross’s Virginia Dillman group and Erich Dihlmann’s German family tree through DNA matching, tracing back to Michael Dhyllmann (1500-1520) of Wurmberg. The newsletter also covers Johann Michael Dillmann’s group researched by Art Dillman, Part 1 of the DFA Library/Archives inventory listing numerous family binders, upcoming 2009 reunion dates for various Dillman descendant groups, and features several Dillman business advertisements.

Vol. 1, No. 4 — June 2009 · 5 articles

This issue features details about the upcoming Germany 2009 heritage tour visiting Neureut, Hagsfeld, and other ancestral towns near Karlsruhe, with registration information and pricing. The main genealogical article by G. Andrew Stillman provides extensive research on Hans Georg Dillmann (1724-1751 immigrant) and his wife Margaretha Murr, including seven generations of Murr ancestry from the “Hagsfelder Familienbuch” and historical context of Neureut’s settlement. Additional content covers archival preservation using 100-year Kodak CDs/DVDs, Part 2 of the DFA Library holdings listing books and genealogical materials, and upcoming Dillman reunion dates for various family branches.

Vol. 2, No. 1 — September 2009 · 7 articles

This issue features articles on the Vachel Dillman group (descendants of Samuel Dillman of Gallatin County, KY, possibly a Hessian soldier from England) and Wendell Dillmann of Lembach, Alsace, France (1500s lineage), along with coverage of Dillmans in LaSalle County, IL descended from Hans Georg Dillmann. The newsletter announces an upcoming October 2009 trip to Germany for ten DFA members to meet German Dillmann/Dielmann relatives and local historians, with DNA project implications. Additional content includes upcoming reunion dates for various Dillman descendant groups, Dillman business features, and a request for family memorabilia for the DFA archives.

Vol. 2, No. 2 — December 2009 · 5 articles

This issue features the remarkable story of Dave Tingey finding and returning an 1848 family Bible belonging to Andrew Dillman (b. 1790) at an Indianapolis Goodwill store, containing hand-drawn illustrations of his 13 children. The centerpiece is an extensive account of the October 2009 Germany Tour where 10 DFA members visited ancestral Dillman sites across Germany and France, meeting living Dillmann relatives including winemaker Karlo Dillmann in Geisenheim and the Dihlmann family bakery (operating since 1850) in Grossglattbach, with coverage in German newspapers. Additional articles cover 101-year-old Anna Dillman of Rainsville, Indiana (who had a boulevard named after her), ongoing research connecting the Grant Park, Illinois Dillmans to the Hans Georg Dillmann group, and announcements for the 2010 Mega-Reunion in Roanoke, Virginia.

Vol. 2, No. 3 — March 2010 · 7 articles

This issue features Don A. Dillman’s reflective article about visits to Illingen, Germany, where oak trees planted by schoolmaster Elias Dillmann and pink begonias on family graves provided meaningful connections to Dillman heritage. Andrew Stillman provides an update on Hans Georg Dillmann research, reporting newly discovered baptism records from 1709-1717 in Eggenstein parish records, though the marriage record of Hans Georg to Euphrosina Stober remains elusive. Additional articles cover Dillman, Indiana (a town named for Andrew Dillman 1811-1886), Dillman’s Sand Lake Lodge in Wisconsin founded by Marvin Dillman in 1935, the DFA’s new membership in the Guild of One-Name Studies, and details about the upcoming 2010 Mega-Reunion in Roanoke, Virginia on August 12-13.

Vol. 2, No. 4 — June 2010 · 7 articles

This issue promotes the 5th Biennial Mega-Reunion in Roanoke, Virginia (August 12-13, 2010), with 47 volunteers now participating in the DNA testing project. Featured articles include a search for the burial location of Hans Georg Dillmann Jr. and his wife Margaretha Murr, Andrew Stillman’s account of visiting Lembach, France to research Chuck Dillman’s ancestral line and meeting local Dillmann descendants including Mme. Jacqueline Chabrier, and Andrew Dillman’s Valley Forge muster roll documentation showing his Revolutionary War service. The newsletter also reports on the October 2009 Germany trip findings and announces upcoming family reunions across multiple states.

Vol. 3, No. 1 — September 2010 · 7 articles

This issue covers the 5th Dillman Mega-Reunion held in Roanoke, VA, including presentations on German immigration paths, the Volga Russia Germans, and the DFA’s trip to Germany in October 2009 where they met Dihlmann relatives in Wurmberg. A major feature details the connection between Virginia Dillmans and the Dihlmanns of Wurmberg, tracing their common ancestry back nearly 500 years to Michael Georg Dillmann (born before 1500). The DNA Project Update describes 13 distinct haplogroups/family groups including the Anthony Dillman Group, Hans Georg Dillmann Group, Virginia Dillman/Germany Group, Vachel Dillman Group, and others, with new officers elected: Chris Dillman (President), Phil Dillman (Vice President), Melissa Minke (Secretary), and Louise McKinney (Treasurer).

Vol. 3, No. 2 — December 2010 · 6 articles

This issue announces a revamped DFA website being developed by Andrew Stillman, Mike Minke, and Don Dillman, and features champion drag racer Steve Dillman of Dillman Motorsports. Part 1 of Louise McKinney’s article on immigrant Dillmans in early American history traces German immigration from the 1683 Crefeld settlers through the 1820 census, documenting early Dillman arrivals on ships like the Virtuous Grace (1737) and their westward migration patterns. The issue also profiles artist Meredith Dillman, lists upcoming 2011 reunions for various Hans Georg Dillmann descendant groups, and notes the passing of Norman Gregg Dillman.

Vol. 3, No. 3 — March 2011 · 6 articles

This issue explores how the Dillmann surname evolved into variations like Dillman, Tillman, and Stillman through immigration and language differences, supported by DNA research connecting these family lines to common ancestor Hans-Georg Dillmann who migrated to the U.S. in 1751. Part 2 of “Immigrant Dillmans in Early American History” traces German immigration patterns through various U.S. ports and westward expansion, including Dillman involvement in canal construction, the Civil War, and railroad work. The newsletter also features a detailed biography of Revolutionary War soldier George Michael Dillman (ca1764-ca1830), photos of musical Dillmans, a 1928 Kansas school photo, and announcements of four upcoming 2011 reunions for descendants of Hans Georg Dillmann.

Vol. 3, No. 4 — June 2011 · 5 articles

This issue reports the passing of Anna Swanson Dillman of Rainsville, Indiana at age 102, who had a street named in her honor, and traces her husband’s connection to the Dillman-Dayga group through the Hawkins Wheel genealogical chart. The newsletter features an article on “Musical Dillmans” highlighting Rex Dillman’s lifelong musical talents and his involvement with the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, along with detailed Civil War ancestry connections. Andrew Stillman contributes extensive genealogical research on the Dillmann family of Ettlingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, tracing the family from 1618 through seven generations using Catholic Church records.

Vol. 4, No. 1 — September 2011 · 5 articles

This issue features an article by DFA President Chris Dillman tracing her grandparents Martin and Agatha Geier Dillman’s migration from Marienthal, Russia (near Odessa) to Canada in 1908, with extensive historical context about German settlers invited to Russia by Catherine the Great. The newsletter announces the 2012 DFA Mega-Reunion planned for August 9-10 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and reports on the C.K. Dillman reunion held July 9, 2011 in Charleston, IL. Editor Phil Dillman also documents his discovery of Dieleman family graves in Pella, Iowa, connecting this Dutch spelling variant to early settlers from Zeeland, Netherlands who arrived in 1847.

Vol. 4, No. 2 — December 2011 · 6 articles

This issue covers a local Dillman reunion in Tamms, Illinois for descendants of Frank and Christina Permilia “Minnie” Walker Dillman, and announces the upcoming DFA Mega-Reunion in Fort Wayne, Indiana for August 8-11, 2012, highlighting the nearby Genealogy Center at Allen County Public Library. A featured article profiles William P. Dillman (1828-1904), a third-generation American and Civil War veteran from the George Michael Dillman line, detailing his military service, capture at Hartsville, Tennessee, and family history. Additional content includes a brief note about Tillmann Wholesale Growers in Wisconsin and information about upcoming Dillman reunions including one for Martin & Agatha Dillman descendants in Alberta, Canada.

Vol. 4, No. 3 — March 2012 · 5 articles

This issue announces the 2012 DFA Mega-Reunion in Fort Wayne, Indiana (August 9-11), featuring a visit to the Allen County Library’s genealogy collection and a presentation by a Dillmann visitor from Germany about his family tree. The Dillman DNA Project reports finding a 15th unique Dillman lineage from participant 215321, whose ancestors trace to Southern Russia with Haplogroup R1b1a2. Additional content includes a query from Gary Dihlmann seeking German relatives who sent items with the Dihlmann coat of arms (dated 1490), historical information about Elmer Dillman as an early embalmer in Vernal, Utah, and listings for multiple 2012 reunions including descendants of Andrew & Elizabeth Bruner Dillman, C.K. & Bertha Dillman, and Martin & Agatha Dillman.

Vol. 4, No. 4 — June 2012 · 7 articles

This issue focuses on the upcoming 6th Biennial Dillman Mega-Reunion in Fort Wayne, Indiana (August 9-11, 2012), featuring visits to the Allen County Library’s Genealogy Center and a presentation by a Dillmann visitor from Germany. The newsletter includes an article by Don Dillman reflecting on discoveries made at previous reunions, including DNA testing that identified 12-15 genetically different Dillman lines in North America and his connection to Hans Georg Dillmann who immigrated in 1751. Additional content covers the growing Hans Georg Dillmann descendant line with new connections found in Oklahoma and Indiana, information about Dillman, Indiana (named for Andrew Dillman), and a listing of various Dillman family reunions scheduled for 2012.

Vol. 5, No. 1 — Sep 2012 · 9 articles

This issue covers the 2012 Dillman Mega-Reunion held in Fort Wayne, Indiana, featuring presentations on the Hans Georg Dillmann group and a major genealogical breakthrough tracing Hans Georg Sr.’s parents to Johannes Conrad and Anna Catharina Dillmann of Knielingen, Germany. The Dillman DNA Project update reports growth to 50 Y-DNA participants across 15 distinct family lines, with attendees from the U.S., Canada, England, and Germany. Additional content includes reports on local reunions in Western Canada, Bloomington Indiana, and Charleston Illinois, an intriguing story about Charlotte “Jane” Dillman from Nova Scotia involving a murder trial, and the re-election of the DFA board for a second term.

Vol. 5, No. 2 — Dec 2012 · 5 articles

This issue features Rod Dillman’s detailed account of his family connection trip to Germany where he met Dihlmann relatives in Wurmberg and received a hand-drawn Dihlmann family tree as a gift, followed by hosting German cousin Isabell Dihlmann in Virginia. Chris Dillman reports on the Martin and Agatha Dillman family reunion held in Alberta’s Drumheller badlands, documenting this Canadian family line whose ancestors migrated from Russia in 1908. The newsletter includes a translated German ancestry chart for the Bernhard Dillmann line of Ettlingen, Baden-Württemberg, tracing the family back to Anton Dillmann (d. 1819), along with discussion of potential 2014 conference locations (St. Louis, Fort Wayne, or Indianapolis).

Vol. 5, No. 3 — March 2013 · 9 articles

This issue announces the DFA website reconstruction project and lists upcoming Hans Georg/Conrad Dillmann Group reunions in Indiana and Illinois. Key articles include Louise McKinney’s detailed account of her ongoing search for immigrant ancestor Anthony Dillman’s origins in Germany, an obituary for Rev. Dr. Victor Eugene Dillman (a longtime genealogy researcher), Dielmann headstones documented in Osceola, Indiana by Valerie Wurn, and a story about connecting with a Murr family descendant through the DFA website. The newsletter also promotes the Dillman DNA Project (50 members, 15 distinct family lines), provides photo digitization tips recommending PNG/TIFF formats over JPEG, and advertises Ancestry Day at the Midwest Genealogy Center in Blue Springs, Missouri.

Vol. 5, No. 4 — June 2013 · 7 articles

This issue covers upcoming Hans Georg/Conrad Dillmann group reunions in Indiana and Illinois, announces a potential 2015 trip to Germany, and includes an obituary for Frances (Dillman) Chessman. Feature articles include a history of early Dillman-Rohrer family reunions dating back to 1890, Dillman involvement in the Civil War (180 soldiers with the surname served), a detailed history of Dillman Farm Inc. in Bloomington, Indiana, and a comprehensive account by Don A. Dillman of the first Mega-Reunion in August 2002 that led to the formation of the Dillman Family Association, including early discussions of DNA testing for genealogical research.

Vol. 6, No. 1 — Sept. 2013 · 7 articles

This newsletter announces the upcoming August 2014 Dillman Genealogical Conference in Plainfield, Indiana, focusing on Civil War and War of 1812 veterans. It features obituaries for several Dillman family members including Conrad Craig Dillman, Vennie Marie Dillman, and Donald Leroy Dillman, along with coverage of local reunions for the Charleston Group (descendants of Rev. C.K. Dillman) and the Bloomington Group (descendants of Andrew and Elizabeth Bruner Dillman). The issue includes a biographical article on Andrew Reed Dillman (1841-????) of McLean County, Illinois, a detailed account of the 2004 Cincinnati Mega-Reunion including DNA project updates, and a translated German tombstone inscription from Ohio that provides genealogical details for Jacob Dillman from the Palatinate region of Germany.

Vol. 6, No. 2 — December 2013 · 6 articles

This issue announces the 7th Biennial Dillman Genealogical Conference scheduled for August 8-9, 2014 in Plainfield, Indiana, and discusses a potential 2015 trip to Germany. It features an article on Sidney M. Dillman, a blacksmith from Dillman, Indiana (part of the Hans Georg/Conrad Dillmann group), with historical photos of his home and shop equipment. The newsletter includes Don A. Dillman’s detailed memoir of the 2006 Harrisburg, PA Mega-Reunion covering DNA testing discussions, “Frank’s Chart” of genetic markers, and the discovery of connections between Dillman/Stillman family lines, along with obituaries for Max E. Dillman and Willis Earl “Bill” Dillman.

Vol. 6, No. 3 — March 2014 · 6 articles

This issue announces the 7th Biennial Dillman Genealogical Conference scheduled for August 8-9, 2014 at Cambria Suites in Plainfield, Indiana, with a focus on military service records from the War of 1812 and Civil War. Featured articles include photographs and records of Dillman Civil War soldiers (Henry F. Dillman, William P. Dillman, Aaron Dillman, Henry Dillman, George W. Dillman), and Don A. Dillman’s article on using military records for genealogical research, highlighting Revolutionary War pension records of Andrew Dillman. The newsletter also lists multiple Dillman reunion dates, obituaries for Myron “Mr. D” Dillman (Dillman-Dayga Group), Frank Henry Stillman Jr. (Conrad/Hans Georg Dillmann Group), Verlin “Bert” C. Dillman, and Robert N. “Harp” Dillman (Vachel Dillman Group), and notes the DFA has taken over moderation of the Rootsweb “Dillman” mailing list.

Vol. 6, No. 4 — June 2014 · 9 articles

This issue focuses on the upcoming 7th Biennial Dillman Genealogical Conference scheduled for August 8-9, 2014 in Plainfield, Indiana, with a detailed program featuring presentations on Dillmans in the War of 1812 and Civil War, DNA project updates, and sessions on German research. The newsletter includes an article about solving the Andrew Reed Dillman mystery (locating his burial plot in McLean Cemetery, Illinois), information about Conrad Dillman’s historic 1832 brick home in Green Township, Ohio which served as a preaching place for Methodist and Evangelical circuit riders, and encourages members to submit family stories to “flesh out” their ancestors beyond basic genealogical data. Multiple Dillman family reunion dates are listed for various descendant groups including the Hans Georg Dillmann Group and the Dihlmann/Virginia Dillman Group.

Vol. 7, No. 1 — September 2014 · 6 articles

This newsletter announces the planned 2015 Germany Excursion to visit ancestral Dillman locations in Alsace, France and various German towns, and provides a detailed report on the 7th Biennial Dillman Genealogical Conference held in Plainfield, Indiana with the theme “Remembering our Early War Veterans.” The issue features extensive research by Andrew Stillman tracing Conrad Dillmann descendants who migrated to the Banat region of Austria-Hungary, including the tragic fate of German-speaking Dillmanns in Franzfeld following WWII. Additional content includes DNA project updates, reunion photos from Charleston, IL, obituaries for Raymond E. Dillman and Marcie Sue Dillman Copeland, and news about connecting family members through the association’s research efforts.

Vol. 7, No. 2 — December 2014 · 6 articles

This issue announces a planned DFA trip to Germany for September 2015 and a 2016 Genealogical Conference in Fort Wayne, Indiana. It reports on German DNA connections through Ralf Brosi (descendant of Hans Georg Dillmann Jr’s brother), includes an obituary for Dennis J. Dillman of South Bend, IN, and covers a local reunion in Tamms, IL for descendants of Frank and Minnie Walker Dillman. Additional content includes information about RootsTech 2015 in Salt Lake City, books by Dillman authors (Dr. Charles Dillman and Phillip Dillman), vintage St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce advertisements featuring H.R. Dillman and H.C. Dillman, and miscellaneous tips about Pennsylvania Dutch/Deutsch etymology and estate planning for genealogical collections.

Vol. 7, No. 3 — March 2015 · 6 articles

This issue highlights the upcoming Germany Tour 2015 (August 19 – September 3), a 16-day heritage trip visiting ancestral Dillmann locations including Dillenburg, Knielingen, Kapsweyer, and Wurmburg, with detailed itinerary and registration information. The newsletter reports on the Dillman DNA Project gaining three new participants in Groups 10, 17, and a potential Rice family match, and features a research inquiry from Clive Tillman in Australia tracing his great-grandfather Hugo Joseph Tillman/Dillmann from Koblenz, Germany. Additional content includes 2015 reunion dates for Conrad/Hans Georg Dillmann descendants in Bedford IN, Bloomington IL, and Tamms IL; obituaries for Ed Dillman, Grace Hodges-Dillman, Ronald Lewis Dillman, Cecil Lowell Dillman, and Carl Dillman; and “Where in the World” features on Mount Dillman in the Philippines and Dillmanstown, New Zealand.

Vol. 7, No. 4 — June 2015 · 8 articles

This issue announces a DFA research trip to Germany to explore ancestral lands for DNA groups 2, 9, and 16, and previews the August 2016 Genealogical Conference in Ft. Wayne, IN. Featured articles include a profile of German orientalist Christian Friedrich August Dillmann (1823-1894), a record-setting 65-pound striped bass catch by Lawrence Dillman of Missouri, and Phil Dillman’s appeal for family memorabilia donations to the DFA Library and Archive. The newsletter also reports on the website redesign by STEM-H Academy students, includes “The Dillman” house plans, and contains obituaries for Don Bradley Dillman, Dr. Richard Carl Dillman, Joseph Charles Dillman, Perdita “Patty” Stickler Dillman, Donald R. Dillman, and Mary A. Dillman.

Vol. 8, No. 1 — September 2015 · 8 articles

This issue announces the DFA Genealogical Conference scheduled for August 11-13, 2016 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, with time planned for research at the Allen County Genealogy Library. It features photos and highlights from the DFA trip to France and Germany where members visited with European Dillmann relatives, along with a personal story from Valerie Wurn about her brother Rex Dillman’s cancer journey and their family’s participation in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life. The newsletter also discusses expanding the Dillman DNA Project to include surname variations like Dillmon, Dillaman, and Dilman, lists upcoming 2016 reunions for the Conrad/Hans Georg Dillmann family groups in Indiana, Illinois, and Tamms, Illinois, and includes genealogy research resources from the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society and Family Tree Magazine.

Vol. 8, No. 2 — December 2015 · 6 articles

This issue announces the upcoming DFA Genealogical Conference scheduled for August 11-13, 2016 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with details about hotel accommodations and registration. The main genealogical article by Andrew Stillman presents extensive research on the Dillmann family of Geisenheim, Hesse-Nassau, Germany, tracing the lineage from Wolfgang Wendelin Dillmann (buried 1679) through multiple generations to Karlo Dillmann, current owner of the Dillmann Weingut winery, including discussion of the family’s rare G2 DNA haplogroup suggesting possible ancient Roman frontier origins. Additional content includes a letter from Wallace Dillman to Gregory Dillman detailing the Hans Georg/Conrad Dillmann line through Sylvester S. Dillman (Civil War officer killed at Winchester) and his son George Lincoln Dillman (Naval Academy graduate and Western Pacific Railway chief engineer), plus announcements of four regional Dillman reunions for 2016.

Vol. 8, No. 3 — Mar-May 2016 · 7 articles

This issue prominently features the upcoming 8th Biennial DFA Genealogical Conference scheduled for August 11-13, 2016 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, including a detailed agenda with presentations on a 2015 trip to Germany, online genealogy research, Civil War music, and a “Burning Beethoven” book review. The newsletter lists multiple 2016 Dillman family reunions across Indiana, Virginia, and Illinois, representing various lineage groups including the Conrad/Hans Georg Dillmann Group and the Virginia Dillman/Dihlmann Group. The issue also includes obituaries for Daniel Keith Slack (husband of Marsha Dillman), Robert Daniel Dillman of Southern Pines, NC, and M. Imogene Dillman of Charleston, IL, along with mentions of past reunions discovered through Facebook searches.

Vol. 8, No. 4 / Vol. 9, No. 1 — Jun-Nov 2016 / September 2016 · 8 articles

This special double issue extensively covers the 2016 Dillman Genealogical Conference held in Fort Wayne, Indiana, featuring presentations via Skype from Christina Dillman in Canada about the 2015 Germany trip, Barbara Dillman’s photos from meeting German cousins, and Rex Dillman’s Civil War presentation with period musical instruments. The newsletter includes President Rod Dillman’s reflections on the book “Burning Beethoven” about German culture suppression during WWI, upcoming reunion information for the Conrad/Hans Georg Dillmann descendant groups, and a report on the Charleston, IL reunion featuring 98-year-old Beryl Dillman. The issue also announces the next DFA conference planned for Plainfield, Indiana in 2018 and provides a treasurer’s report showing a balance of $4,633.20. This newsletter provides extensive coverage of the Dillman Genealogical Conference held August 11-13, 2016 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, featuring combined notes from Phil and Don Dillman about presentations including Christina Dillman’s Skype presentation on the 2015 Germany trip, Barbara Dillman’s photos from the same trip, Rex Dillman’s Civil War presentation with period instruments, and Joye Jolly Dillman’s DAR Period Rooms presentation. The issue explains the “Cousins by Choice” concept and lists all 16 DNA groups in the Dillman DNA Project with their haplogroups and ancestral origins, noting that conference attendees represented groups 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 16. Additional content includes the DFA Library/Archive appeal for family materials, the obituary of Charles Lindsay Ross (husband of Betty Dillman Ross), and the current DFA board roster with Daniel Dillman as new Webmaster.

Vol. 9, No. 2 — Dec 2016 – Feb 2017 · 9 articles

This issue features President Rod Dillman’s detailed account of commissioning bronze reproductions of the Dihlmann Coat of Arms using a lost wax casting process, along with an announcement for the 2018 DFA Genealogical Conference in Plainfield, Indiana. The newsletter covers Drew Dillman’s cyclocross racing victory, the Dillman Manor property for sale in Hoopeston, Illinois (which hosted Charleston Dillman Group reunions), and schedules for three 2017 Conrad/Hans Georg Dillmann group reunions. Additional content includes a “Footnote” discovery about Dihlmann Shoes and a 1917 shoe press patent, obituaries for Dr. Ben Cauble, Vern Dillman, and Frank Joseph Dillman, and editor Phil Dillman’s successful research connecting a new contact to the Andrew Dillman (1785) line through Hans Georg Dillmann Jr.

Vol. 9, No. 3 — Mar – May 2017 · 8 articles

This issue promotes the upcoming August 2018 DFA Genealogical Conference in Plainfield, Indiana and lists multiple local Dillman reunion schedules across Illinois, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and New York. Editor Phil Dillman emphasizes preserving family history by teaching younger generations and properly labeling heirlooms, while featuring Neal B. Dillman Elementary School in Muleshoe, Texas named after a descendant of Andrew and Elizabeth Bruner Dillman. The newsletter highlights Dillman’s Glen AirBNB in Gilman, Iowa operated by descendants of Henry Dillman (1835-1878), whose family line is represented in the Dillman DNA Project as participant #99809 in the R1b R-L2 Haplo Group, and mentions references to the Dillman family grocery stores in J.D. Vance’s “Hillbilly Elegy.”

Vol. 9, No. 4 / Vol. 10, No. 1 — Jun-Nov 2017 · 8 articles

This double issue focuses on local Dillman family reunions held across multiple states including Illinois, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and Indiana, with extensive photos from gatherings of descendants from various family branches. The newsletter reports on discoveries connecting new family groups to DDNA Project Group 1 (Anthony and Susanna Kalbach Dillman), including Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania Dillmans found via Facebook and a Canadian family from Ontario traced through Nicholas Dillman. The issue also announces the 2018 DFA Genealogical Conference planned for August 9-11 in Plainfield, Indiana, includes an article on engaging younger family members in genealogy research, and features several obituaries of Dillman family members.

Vol. 10, No. 2 — Dec 2017 – May 2018 · 9 articles

This combined issue (Vol. 10, No. 2/No. 3) features a tribute to actor Bradford Dillman (1930-2018), detailing his extensive film and television career along with his connection to DDNA Group 2. The newsletter includes a translated history of the Evangelical Church in Knielingen, Germany, where Hans Georg Dillmann Sr. was baptized in 1682, and announces the upcoming DGC 2018 conference in Plainfield, Indiana (August 9-11). Additional content covers multiple local Dillman reunion schedules across various states, an obituary for Hearshal McKinney (husband of DFA Treasurer Louise Dillman McKinney), Phil Dillman’s visit to Dillman’s Furniture locations in Indiana where he met bluegrass musician Derek Dillman, and a book review of “To Honor Fallen Heroes” about College Point, NY during WWI.

Vol. 10, No. 4 — Jun—Aug 2018 · 8 articles

This issue provides extensive coverage of the 2018 Dillman Genealogical Conference held in Plainfield, Indiana, including presentations on DNA testing, the DAR Library resources, and Germans from Russia research. The Dillman DNA Project now includes 57 participants across 17 distinct family groups, with updates presented by Andrew Stillman via WebEx from England. Notable content includes a celebration of Beryl Dillman’s upcoming 100th birthday, Bradford Dillman memorabilia available on eBay, new donations to the DFA Archive including a medicine bottle from F.K. Dillman’s drugstore in East St. Louis, and the announcement that the 2020 conference will be held in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Sep—Nov 2018 · 11 articles

This issue announces planning for the 2020 Biennial Dillman Genealogical Conference in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and reflects on the 2006 conference held there. Featured articles include Don A. Dillman’s personal account of tracing his ancestry through DNA testing and the Dillman/Niswender Pioneer Cemetery in Iowa, research on Frank King Dillman (a druggist from the Conrad/Hans Georg Dillmann Group 2), and a profile of Henry Fudge Dillman’s family highlighting unique naming patterns. The newsletter also includes donations of Bradford Dillman memorabilia from his daughter Pamela, a 1919 article about the Dillman Egg Case Factory in Missouri, a Veterans Day feature on 98-year-old Hank Dihlmann, and reunion schedules for various Dillman family groups across multiple states.

Vol. 11, No. 2 — Dec 2018 – Feb 2019 · 7 articles

This issue features Part 1 of actor Bradford Dillman’s 1968 diary recounting his experiences filming “The Bridge at Remagen” in Communist Czechoslovakia, along with President Don Dillman’s reflections on growing up with an unusual surname and discovering distant relatives. The newsletter includes G. Andrew Stillman’s account of meeting Rev. Lindsay Dillman’s family in Durban, South Africa and his compiled genealogical research on South African Dillman/Tillman/Tilghman records dating back to the early 1800s Cape Colony. Additional content announces the upcoming 10th DFA Genealogical Conference planned for Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in August 2020, reunion schedules for the Conrad/Hans Georg Dillmann descendant groups, and a reflection on preserving family histories and stories for future generations.

Vol. 11, No. 3 — Mar– May 2019 · 7 articles

This issue features Part 2 of Bradford Dillman’s diary from filming “The Bridge at Remagen” in 1968 Czechoslovakia during the Cold War, along with announcements for the 10th DFA Genealogical Conference planned for August 2020 in Harrisburg, PA. Articles include Phil Dillman’s discovery of photos of Matilda Florence Dillman Thompson’s family and his correction of a genealogical error involving two different “Etta Dillmans” from the same Illinois region, plus Daniel Dillman’s account of attending a Daisy Dillman Band concert in Minnesota and researching the Willard Dillman line from Excelsior. Local reunion schedules are listed for Conrad/Hans Georg Dillmann Group descendants in Indiana, Illinois, and the Pennsylvania Group.

Vol. 11, No. 4 — Jun–Aug 2019 · 5 articles

This issue announces the Dillman Genealogical Conference 2020 to be held in Harrisburg, PA, focusing on migration paths of 17 identified genetic Dillman lines. It features the final installment (Part 3 of 3) of Bradford Dillman’s recollections of filming “The Bridge at Remagen” in Czechoslovakia during the 1968 Soviet invasion. The newsletter includes obituaries for Juanita Ruth (Nita) Cauble, Larry Don Dillman, and Edward Gene Dillman, all descendants of Jesse Loren and Emma Webb Dillman from the Conrad/Hans Georg Dillmann Group 2.

Vol. 12, No. 1 — Sep 2019 · 10 articles

President Don Dillman opens with conference planning updates, including the tentative schedule and registration details for the upcoming Dillman Genealogical Conference. Daniel Dillman researches the genealogy behind the Daisy Dillman Band, while Phil Dillman explores New Orleans-area Dillmann connections and shares a lighter piece connecting Tom Hanks and Fred Rogers as distant cousins. G. Andrew Stillman reports on a chance encounter with a DNA cousin and renews the appeal for more participants in the Dillman DNA Project. The issue closes with the regular Our Dillman Family and Local Reunion Schedules columns.

Vol. 12, No. 2 — Dec 2019 – Feb 2020 · 12 articles

This issue focuses on the upcoming 10th Biennial Dillman Genealogical Conference (DGC 2020) planned for Harrisburg, PA in August 2020, with the theme “Migration Pathways Around the World.” Major articles include an update on the Migration Records Project which has collected over 85,000 Dillman records from various sources, the discovery of Banat Dillman cousins in Chicago connected to the Conrad Dillmann line (Family Group 2), and a speculative piece on whether Ötzi the Iceman shares DNA with the Conrad Dillmann family group. Additional content covers Bradford Dillman’s travels traced through migration records, genealogy preserved in a church quilt from Clear Creek Christian Church, Dillmans of South Africa (Family Group 3), and an obituary for Elwood Lewis Dillman of Nova Scotia (Family Group 18).

Vol. 12, No. 3 — Mar 2020 – May 2020 · 11 articles

This newsletter announces the DFA’s first virtual conference via Zoom scheduled for August 15, 2020, due to COVID-19 postponing the Harrisburg in-person conference to 2021. Major articles include an update on the Migration Records Harvesting Project which has reviewed 2,000 records identifying 925 individuals across multiple family groups, a detailed account of Johann Peter Dielmann’s 1831 shipwreck voyage to America, and a DNA article connecting Dillman Family Group 3 to Davy Crockett through Haplogroup I2a. The newsletter also features a request to help identify 14 unplaced Dillman individuals from migration records, instructions for using Google Translate for genealogical research, obituaries for family members, and reunion schedules with several events cancelled due to the pandemic.

Vol. 12, No. 4 — Jun 2020 – Aug 2020 · 7 articles

This issue highlights the successful Virtual DGC 2020 Webinar held via Zoom on August 15, 2020, which replaced the postponed Harrisburg conference due to COVID-19. Major articles include Update #3 on the Migration Records Harvesting Project (now at 50% completion of 7,666 records), a feature on prominent American painter Frederick Dielman (1847-1935) discovered through migration records, and a DNA Project Puzzles article examining non-paternity events in Family Group 3 (Virginia Dillmans). The newsletter also continues the “Can You Help Identify These Dillmans?” series focusing on various Adam Dillmann records, and includes reports from the webinar presentations by Chris Dillman (Germany to Russia to Canada migration) and Rod Dillman (Wurmberg ancestry).

Vol. 13, No. 1 — Sep 2020 – Nov 2020 · 7 articles

This newsletter announces a virtual DGC webinar planned for February 2021 featuring presentations by Valerie Wurn on German migration and Andrew Stillman on Russian Dillmans. Major articles include the story of Hugh Dillman McGaughy (a Broadway actor who married Dodge automobile heiress Anna Thompson Dodge), Update #4 on the Migration Records Harvesting Project showing 75% completion with 7,667 records and 209 individuals placed into 11 known family groups, and a profile of Louis Milton Dillman who became President of the American Book Company (Family Group 7). Additional content covers Alexander Hamilton’s DNA profile sharing Haplogroup I-M253 with Family Group 9 (Volga Germans), Part 3 of unidentified Dillmans seeking member help, and the establishment of new Family Group 21 (Heinrich Dillmann of Washington County, Maryland).

Vol. 13, No. 2 — Dec 2020 · 8 articles

This issue covers Dillman DNA Project Family Group 10 and continues the “Can You Help Identify These Dillmans?” migration records series with Part 4. G. Andrew Stillman also delivers Update #5 on the Migration Records Harvesting Project, profiles lumber baron Oscar Thilmany’s immigrant origins, and traces the Dillmanns of Prischib (Molotschna), Russia. Phil Dillman contributes a lighter piece on fictional characters named Dillman, alongside the regular President’s Corner and Local Reunion Schedules columns.

Vol. 13, No. 3 — Mar 2021 – May 2021 · 9 articles

This issue introduces new DFA Family Group Fact Sheets with assigned names for DNA-identified family lines (12 sheets included), features a detailed research success story tracing Mathias Dillmann’s hometown to Sohren, Rhineland-Palatinate (Family Group 8), and introduces Family Group 30—the Dielemans of Netherlands and Belgium with 144 individuals traced to a common genealogy. The newsletter also presents findings on 56 Dillmann families who migrated from Russian colonies (Volga, Black Sea, Volhynia) to North America and other continents, includes obituaries for members from Groups 9, 2, and 16, and provides guidance on online genealogy research methodology.

Vol. 13, No. 4 — Jun 2021 – Aug 2021 · 10 articles

This issue announces a DFA Webinar scheduled for August 14, 2021 and features articles on correcting genealogical history involving two Nova Scotia Dillman families (Groups 2 and 18), Willem Aart Dieleman’s journey from Rotterdam to Raleigh, Harold and Elsie Dillman’s life story spanning Canada, England, and the US, and J.C. Dielmann the master stonemason of San Antonio, Texas. The Migration Records Harvesting Project Update #6 reports 7,748 records with Phase IV approximately 27.9% complete and 72 Family Groups identified (up from 19). The newsletter includes 16 new Family Group Fact Sheets (Groups 15, 20-24, 26-35), obituaries for Rita Dillman Stephenson, Earl Dillman (a DFA co-founder), and Elda Mae Dillman, plus unidentified Dillman records seeking member assistance.

Vol. 14, No. 1 — Sep 2021 – Nov 2021 · 10 articles

This issue features detailed articles on Leo Maria Joseph Dielmann, a notable San Antonio architect (Family Group 23), and the New Orleans confectioner Dielmanns from Mensfelden, Nassau, Germany (Family Group 92). It includes a technical explanation of DNA inheritance and genetic versus genealogical family trees, announces a February 2022 webinar and plans for an August 2022 in-person conference in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and presents 18 new Family Group Fact Sheets (Groups 36-53) along with continued migration record identification requests.

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Dec 2021 – Feb 2022 · 7 articles

This issue announces the 20th Anniversary Dillman Genealogical Conference scheduled for August 12-13, 2022 in Harrisburg, PA, featuring the DFA Library, DNA testing updates (68 individuals identifying 19 distinct family lines), and a preview of the forthcoming book “Discovering Dillman Families Throughout the World.” The feature article continues “The Litigious Mrs. Dielmann” saga, detailing extensive Louisiana probate court records from 1876-1938 regarding Philip W. Dielmann’s estate valued at $174,308 (nearly $5.8 million today). The newsletter includes obituaries for DFA Family Groups 2 and 7, migration records for various Dillman immigrants beginning with names starting with “A,” and seventeen new Family Group Fact Sheets (Groups 54-70) covering families from Russia, Germany, Sweden, Yugoslavia, the Netherlands, and France.

Vol. 14, No. 3 — Mar 2022 – May 2022 · 10 articles

This issue promotes the upcoming Dillman Genealogical Conference in Harrisburg, PA (August 12-13, 2022) and provides an update on the Dillman DNA Project 2.0, which has identified 19 genetically distinct family lines from 67 members. Featured articles include a detailed exploration of surname spelling variations (Dillmann/Stillmann/Fillmann/Sillmann/Tillmann/Gillmann), profiles of Johannes Christian Dielmann (German sculptor who created Frankfurt’s Schiller monument) and William C. Dillman (inventor and founder of Dillman Baking Company in Brooklyn), and the story of Catherine Dillmann Morrison’s connection to DFA Family Group 7. The issue includes Family Group Fact Sheets for groups 71-95 and continues the “Can You Help Identify These Dillmans?” migration records series with names beginning with A.

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Jun 2022 – Aug 2022 · 10 articles

This issue reports on the 20th anniversary Dillman Genealogical Conference held in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, featuring presentations on German migration to Pennsylvania, DNA analysis techniques, and family line research. The newsletter introduces new DFA President Melissa Minke, profiles community banker Charles O. Dillman (Family Group 3), documents Maitland Cemetery in Cape Town, South Africa (Family Group 3), and includes memorial notices for Robert Edmund Dillman (Group 9) and Robert E. Dillman (Group 1), along with a birthday celebration for 104-year-old Beryl Dillman (Group 2). The issue also presents Family Group Fact Sheets for Groups 96-111, continues the “Can You Help Identify These Dillmans?” migration records series, and announces plans for the forthcoming book “Discovering Dillman Families Throughout the World.”

Vol. 15, Nos. 1 & 2 — Sep 2022 – Feb 2023 · 8 articles

This double issue announces the upcoming publication of “Discovering Dillman Families Throughout the World,” a 240-page book summarizing 20 years of DFA research with over 800 names indexed, covering 17 chapters on various Dillman family lines all traced to southwestern Germany and nearby France. The newsletter includes obituaries for members from DFA Groups 2, 5, 9, and 16, the Dillman Migration Record Project featuring unidentified immigrants (Part 11 focusing on names beginning with C/K), and Family Group Fact Sheets for Groups 1, 2, 2A, 3, 5, 7, and 16. President Melissa Minke solicits member input on the August 2024 conference location, with Louisville, Kentucky and Milwaukee, Wisconsin under consideration.

Vol. 15, No. 3 — Mar 2023 – Aug 2023 · 9 articles

This combined issue announces the publication of “Discovering Dillman Families Throughout the World” book (120 copies sold by late September 2023) and promotes a November 4, 2023 webinar featuring research on Hans Georg Dillmann’s property and plans for the August 8-10, 2024 genealogical conference in Louisville, Kentucky. The newsletter includes obituaries for members from Family Groups 2, 6, 8, and 16, a detailed biographical article on John Corbin Dillman (1856-1937) of Family Group 1, and Part 12 of the Dillman Migration Record Project identifying unplaced immigrants with names beginning with C/K. A local reunion of Group 2 Dillmans in Kansas, Illinois is featured, including a FaceTime call with 105-year-old Beryl Dillman.

Vol. 16, No. 1 — Sep 2023 – Nov 2023 · 11 articles

This newsletter announces the 2024 DFA Genealogical Conference scheduled for August 8-10 in Louisville, Kentucky, and includes extensive tourist information about the area. Major articles cover Andrew Stillman’s research discovering the Pennsylvania property location of Hans Georg Dillmann Jr (Group 2 immigrant ancestor) near the Swatara Creek in Lebanon County, an investigation into Dillman R. Bomberger (a photographer whose mother was Emma Dillman), and Update #7 on the Migration Records Project which has now processed 52.9% of Phase IV with 133 family groups identified. The newsletter reports that 120 copies of the new DFA book “Discovering Dillman Families Throughout the World” have been ordered, includes obituaries for members from Groups 2, 5, 9, and 1, discusses how the November webinar and DNA matches helped identify new Group 2 cousins, and continues the “Can You Help Identify These Dillmans?” series with Part 13 featuring migration records for individuals with surnames beginning with K and C.

Vol. 16, No. 2 — Dec 2023 – May 2024 · 14 articles

This double issue focuses extensively on the upcoming DFA Genealogical Conference in Louisville, Kentucky (August 9-10, 2024), featuring detailed coverage of Kentucky Dillman families including the Diehlmanns of Louisville (Family Group 137) who immigrated from Germany between 1849-1882. The newsletter includes a tragic family history from Snoqualmie, Washington involving Henry E. Dillmann’s 1912 murder and the subsequent 15-year probate struggle, as well as an article connecting a Dillman descendant to New York’s famous El Morocco Club. Additional content covers the expansion of Family Group 85 (Deelmans of Netherlands, South Africa, and Canada), migration records project updates with unidentified individuals needing research help, and Family Group Fact Sheets for groups 112-142.

Vol. 16, No. 4 — Jun 2024 – Aug 2024 · 9 articles

This issue prominently features a tribute to Don A. Dillman, longtime DFA president and internationally recognized survey methodologist who passed away in June 2024, along with obituaries for other DFA family members. The newsletter provides extensive coverage of the successful 2024 Genealogical Conference held in Louisville, Kentucky, including presentations on FamilySearch, MyHeritage, and Ancestry.com, updates on the Migration Records Project and DNA Project, and announcement of the 2026 conference location near Cincinnati. Additional content includes Barbara Dillman’s article about her family’s multi-generational tradition of bricklaying (Group 16), information about DAR/SAR membership through Revolutionary War ancestor Andrew Dillman, and Part 15 of the ongoing series identifying unplaced Dillmans from migration records.

Vol. 17, Nos. 1 & 2 — Sep-Nov 2024 / Dec '24-Feb '25 · 9 articles

Melissa Minke recaps how Cincinnati was chosen for the 2026 conference by a vote at the close of the Louisville gathering, with new member Lynn Money — who lives in the Cincinnati area — volunteering to scout hotels and dining and compiling a spreadsheet of options for the DFA leadership. Phil Dillman profiles a mystery 1958 painting, “Road in Guthsville, PA,” gifted by artist Harold Dillman (a Merck, Sharpe & Dohme employee in West Point, Pennsylvania) to the Philadelphia-area nurse who had cared for him, and traces three generations of Dillman barbers, from Charles Lincoln Dillman of Columbus, Indiana, through Covey Dillman (1885-1961) and Willis Earl Dillman (1908-1957) and his four barbering sons. Phil and cousin Grant Chessman compile an extensive history of Willis and Ruth Hazel Dillman’s perseverance through the Depression and WWII, from a 75-cent stake that sent Willis hitchhiking back to Chicago to his sudden death by heart attack in 1957. The issue also announces the posthumous publication of Don A. Dillman’s autobiography, “You Have Been Randomly Selected,” rounds up online curiosities (a RootsTech relative-finder tallying over 64,000 matches, a Family Group 2 haplogroup update to G-BY166292), and G. Andrew Stillman continues the migration-records series with Part 16, working through “E” surnames including well-traveled Paris teacher Eleanore Dillman. Obituaries include Vera “Jean” Sarsany (born Dillman, 94) and Clyde W. Dillman (92), a WWII Marine and longtime Huron, South Dakota school bus driver.

Vol. 17, Nos. 3 & 4 — Mar – Aug 2025 · 9 articles

This double issue leads with President Melissa Minke’s announcement of the 2026 Dillman Genealogical Conference, set for August 7-8 in Erlanger, Kentucky (just across the river from Cincinnati) at the Wingate by Wyndham, with the registration form included. G. Andrew Stillman contributes two DNA-focused explainers: one on GEDmatch, the third-party DNA-comparison site (created in 2010, now with over 2 million profiles) known for enabling investigative genetic genealogy cases like the 2018 Golden State Killer arrest; and one on the Big Y-700 test, including a case study of how Phil Dillman’s 2024 Big Y-700 upgrade helped resolve a decades-old DNA mystery linking Family Group 2 to non-surname match Rebecca Melly, pointing to a shared ancestor born around 1424. Stillman also profiles five newly identified Ohio Dillman family groups (Groups 105, 130, 143, 147, and 150) uncovered through autumn 2025 research, while Phil Dillman traces the family of John Wesley Dillman Jr. (1830-1907) of Jasper County, Illinois, a hardware dealer survived by 8 children, 39 grandchildren, and 54 great-grandchildren. The issue also reports on the August 2025 Dillman reunion at Hungry Mother State Park in Virginia (about 30 attendees), includes obituaries for Grace Vivian Arlene Dillman and Colleen Dillman Langendoerfer (both Family Group 2), and continues the migration-records series with Part 17 of “Can You Help Identify These Dillmans?”

Vol. 18, No. 1 — Jul 2026 · 8 articles

With the 2026 Dillman Genealogical Conference approaching (August 7-8, at the Wingate by Wyndham in Erlanger, Kentucky, just across the river from Cincinnati), Melissa Minke previews a lineup that includes a talk on an overlooked census of American women, two Sons of the American Revolution speakers, and Daniel Dillman’s walkthrough of the newly updated DFA website, and shares her own discovery of 16-plus Revolutionary War patriot ancestors that led to a DAR application. G. Andrew Stillman traces a Dillmann connection to Cincinnati’s Christian Moerlein Brewery: brewer Adam Dillmann, who partnered with Moerlein to found the Elm Street Brewery in 1853 before dying of cholera in 1854 at age 38, and follows the family back to Gronau, Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, and a wave of 1852 emigration by brothers Gabriel, Peter, and Jakob Dillmann. Lynn Money contributes an extensive sightseeing guide for conference-goers, from the Cincinnati Museum Center and Zoo to Underground Railroad and U.S. Grant sites east of the city and the Sharon Cemetery burial site of Family Group 2’s Andrew and Barbara Roush/Rausch in Bracken County. Phil Dillman recounts how the DFA network helped Cathy Kirtley connect her grandmother, Lila Bernice Fitzgerald Dillman, to Family Group 2, and Stillman’s migration-records project — now past 7,900 records — continues with Part 18, working through surnames beginning with “E.” Obituaries include Adam “Bull” Dillman (88), a longtime commercial mason in The Villages, Florida.