Heritage Creations Files for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

I was saddened to read the following words from Leland Meitzler on his Genealogy Blog:

This is a blog I never expected to ever write, but circumstances have dictated that I do so today.

Put in simple terms - I'm broke and am in the process of filing for Chapter 7 personal bankruptcy.

The article goes on to give some explanation of how his business, Heritage Quest Magazine and the Heritage Quest retail operations, got to the point of bankruptcy. Apparently he and his wife Patty have also lost their home.

Leland is one of the "good guys" in the genealogy business, well liked and respected by many. I happened to meet Leland about six weeks ago in Salt Lake City, and he was as buoyant as ever, describing his latest move to new, downsized quarters. Obviously, things did not go as well as he had hoped.

It's a shame to see this happen. Leland's many friends will want to read all the sad details here.

Comments

[Bev]

I'm very sad to see this happen to a great guy. PRIDE can be a killer and can wipe us out. Bev, Fun Stuff for Genealogists, Inc.

[Linda Pazics Kleback]

I really hate that this has happened to such wonderful people. Leland is such a great person. I wish you well in getting all this settled.

[Mike Curtis]

I am very sad as well. I only met Leland once; I think it may have been at the Milwaukee NGS conference. He struck me as a very stand-up guy. The way he has handled everything he has endured in the past year - from the situation with his son to the bankruptcy - in an honest, open and forthright manor, puts him in higher esteem in my eyes, not lower.

I am also sad about the unstable situation of Heritage Quest magazine. Thanks to Leland's stewardship, it has long been my favorite genealogy magazine.

From the lowest of low points it is hard to imagine sunny days ever returning, but they do return. The very best of luck to you Leland.

-- Mike Curtis

[Leonard J. McCown]

Leland and family have been in the genealogy business a long time, and helped many people. I have always trusted him, and valued his information and help. I do so wish him and his family well. He is a great guy, and we will miss him at conferences!

[Barbara Parrish]

I was one of the first subscribers to Heritage Quest. I met Leland years ago in Jacksonville. FL with Bill Dollerhide and have seen him at conventions since. He was always so happy, well liked and knowledgeable. Everton is lucky to have him!