Delayed birth certificates often include affidavits, family Bible records, burial details, and even photos. Learn why these layered records are genealogy gold and how to use late registration of birth certificates to uncover powerful family clues.
Read MoreLooking for free genealogy resources? The Library of Congress online collections hold newspapers, maps, manuscripts, and photographs that can transform your genealogy research. Learn how to search the catalog, explore digital collections, and uncover hidden family history clues for free.
Read MoreA genealogy timeline can reveal gaps, conflicts, and hidden clues in your research. Learn how to create a clear, organized family timeline in Excel or Google Sheets and finally see your ancestor’s story unfold in one place.
Read MoreFamily history questions are one of the simplest ways to uncover stories, memories, and research clues hiding in plain sight. Here are 31 meaningful family history questions you can ask your relatives today before those stories are gone.
Read MoreI have seen online family tree mistakes derail good research fast. In this post I show how I check timelines, verify sources, and avoid copying errors so your online family trees become helpful clues, not a mess to untangle later.
Read MoreI used to ignore collateral ancestors and chase only direct lines. Then a sibling’s record named the birthplace my ancestor never did. In this post, I show how to research collateral ancestors step by step and spot the clues that break brick walls.
Read MoreI used to trust my memory and kept repeating the same searches. In this post, I show how a genealogy research log keeps your sources, dates, and results in one place, plus a simple FREE template you can start using today.
Read MoreOne missing census entry can make you doubt everything. If you’re asking, why isn't my ancestor in the census, you’re not alone. Learn the most common slip-ups and the simple search moves that uncover families hiding in plain sight.
Read MoreWhen online records run dry, the real clues often wait offline. In this guide to types of libraries for genealogy research, you’ll discover seven places that hold local files, manuscripts, newspapers, and surprises that can turn names and dates into family stories.
Read MoreYour tree is solid, but the stories feel missing. This guide shows how to use the Online Archive of California to find collection guides for letters, photographs, minutes, and more, then turn what you discover into a clear request to the right repository.
Read MoreThinking of ordering a baptism record for Quebec citizenship? It’s not as simple as it seems. Learn the most common mistakes, how to confirm identity, and what to check before relying on a baptism record for your application.
Read MoreI used to have way too many browser tabs open and no clue which site had what I needed. After years of genealogy research, I've figured out which genealogy websites free and paid are actually worth it. Here's what I wish someone had told me sooner.
Read MoreAccessing court records changed how I see family history forever. From probate surprises to naturalization clues, these overlooked records hold powerful stories. If you have never searched courthouse files, you might be missing the breakthrough your research needs.
Read MoreFor years, Sarah Merrill was my brick wall. Everything changed when I stopped searching randomly and built a genealogy research hypothesis. Here’s how creating one clear, testable theory can transform your research and finally move your family tree forward.
Read MoreBrick walls rarely fall with more searching. Genealogy FAN Club research shifts your focus to family, associates, and neighbors. Learn how this method uncovers patterns, reveals hidden connections, and points you toward the right records, places, and archives to move your research forward over time, gently.
Read MoreStay on track with a flexible genealogy research checklist you can use all year. I walk you through what to focus on each season, from reviewing what you already have to digging into records, organizing your files, and sharing what you learn. Start where you are, choose one step, and keep moving forward.
Read MoreFeeling scattered in your family history research? A genealogy workbook can help you stay organized, avoid duplicate searches, and track your next steps, all in one place. In this post, I’ll show you how I use different workbooks in my own research, how they can support your goals, and simple tips to make them work for you. Whether you’re just starting out or tackling a tough brick wall, there’s a tool that can help you move forward with clarity.
Read MoreIn my genealogy work, I often see boxes of mixed documents and photos. This guide shows what to do with old papers using a simple four pile method: keep originals, digitize, research mysteries, and let go responsibly. I also share quick tips for old family photos and how to spot archive clues.
Read MoreWhen you re-examine genealogy records, you often discover clues your earlier self simply could not see. This guide walks you through a clear, practical method for reviewing records you already have so you can spot patterns, identify conflicts, and uncover new research paths. Whether you are just beginning or working through a long term project, these steps help you slow down, analyze what you missed before, and move forward with confidence in your family history research.
Read MoreFinding first cousin DNA matches you do not recognize can feel confusing, emotional, or even a little overwhelming at first. With a calm, step by step process, you can sort through the clues, study your shared DNA matches, and start building a clear picture of how this person fits into your family tree. In this guide, I walk you through how to review their tree, build theories, stay organized, and approach each discovery with curiosity and care.
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