Articles

Welcome to our genealogy articles page, your go-to source for insightful and informative content on tracing your family history. Here, you'll find a treasure trove of free genealogy resources that will help you navigate the fascinating journey of uncovering your ancestry. Our articles feature expert tips, step-by-step guides, and the latest trends in genealogy research, all designed to enhance your understanding and skills. Whether you're a beginner eager to start your family tree or an experienced researcher looking for advanced strategies, our articles provide valuable insights and practical advice to support your genealogical pursuits.

We offer an array of free ancestry resources to help you delve deeper into your family's past. From accessing historical records and databases to utilizing modern DNA testing, our content covers a wide range of topics to assist you at every stage of your research. Start exploring today and discover the tools and information you need to build a detailed and accurate family history.

Unlocking the Secrets of Civil War Pension Records

Unlocking the Secrets of Civil War Pension Records

Civil War pension records are a valuable resource for anyone researching their family history. By understanding the types of pensions available, knowing where to find records, and overcoming common challenges, you can unlock the secrets of your ancestors' past and gain a deeper appreciation for their experiences during one of the most significant periods in American history.

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Military Records

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Genealogy

Second Cousin or First Cousin Once Removed; What is the Difference?

Second Cousin or First Cousin Once Removed; What is the Difference?

In the intricate world of genealogy, understanding familial relationships can often be challenging. Terms like "second cousin" and "first cousin once removed" can confuse those delving into their family trees. However, these relationships have clear definitions rooted in common ancestry. This article will unravel the mystery behind these cousin terminologies, explaining how they are determined and the significance of common ancestors.

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Family Tree

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Genealogy

Unraveling the Myths: Ellis Island Name Changes

Unraveling the Myths: Ellis Island Name Changes

Despite popular belief, if your ancestor’s name was drastically changed, it probably didn’t happen at Ellis Island. The legend suggests that immigrants approached an immigration clerk, who then recorded their names, often resulting in a more "American-sounding" version due to misunderstandings or insensitivity.

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Ancestor Names

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Genealogy

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Immigration

What Social Security Records Can Tell You About Your Ancestor

What Social Security Records Can Tell You About Your Ancestor

Among the myriad of resources available to genealogists, Social Security records stand out as a particularly invaluable tool. Established in the 1930s, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has meticulously recorded information that can offer unique insights into an ancestor's life, including personal details, employment history, and death information.

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Genealogy

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Social Security

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Tips

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Genealogy Records

Exploring Civil War Medical Practices and Their Impact on Our Ancestors

Exploring Civil War Medical Practices and Their Impact on Our Ancestors

The American Civil War (1861-1865) was a period of immense turmoil and change, not only in the political and social landscape of the United States but also in the field of medicine. Understanding the medical terminology found in Civil War records from this era offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by medical practitioners and the patients they treated. During the Civil War, medical practices were rudimentary by today’s standards.

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Military Records

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Research

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Genealogy

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Ancestor Names

Why Do Spanish Ancestors Have so Many Last Names?

Why Do Spanish Ancestors Have so Many Last Names?

The surnames in Spanish families are tied to traditions of land, wealth, social status and religion. For a Spanish person, their whole name, including two surnames, correctly identifies them and their parents. This identity is deeply rooted in the histories of their ancestors and the names they carried. Spaniards believe that the name you are born with is “who you are” and “where you come from.” Spanish families prefer to continue the link to their past noble or royal lineages if they exist, whether male or female. The females or wives in Spanish families retain their status by keeping the surnames of their birth. A surname can infer wealth or social status, or alternatively identify a child born out of wedlock.

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Ancestor Names

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Research

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Tips

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Vital Records

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Census Records

1930 Census: Uncovering the Significance of the Radio Question

1930 Census: Uncovering the Significance of the Radio Question

The United States Federal Census, conducted every ten years, offers a fascinating snapshot of American life at each turn of the decade. Among the many intriguing questions included in the 1930 Census, one stands out for its reflection of a transformative era.

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Genealogy

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Census Records

What is Pedigree Collapse?

What is Pedigree Collapse?

Imagine tracing your genealogy back through generations, only to find the same names cropping up in surprising places. Suddenly, you’re faced with the fact that your family tree perhaps isn't as straightforward as you thought. If this is the case for you, then you’ve encountered pedigree collapse in your tree—a hidden pattern in your ancestry that reshapes your understanding of family history and genetic connections.

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DNA

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Genealogy

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Genetic Genealogy

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Pedigree Collapse

Finding Your Biological Father

Finding Your Biological Father

Finding your biological father often involves strategic gathering and analysis of both DNA data and historical records. Interestingly, a one-to-one comparison of DNA is not required to make significant progress in this search.

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DNA

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Adoption

Italian Immigration to the U.S., Before and During World War II

Italian Immigration to the U.S., Before and During World War II

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Italian

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Research

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Immigration

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World War II

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Italian Immigrants

Unlocking the EU Passport: A Guide to Dual Citizenship

Unlocking the EU Passport: A Guide to Dual Citizenship

Are you dreaming of living, working, or studying in Europe without the usual bureaucratic hurdles? In this comprehensive guide, we explore how Americans with European ancestry can obtain dual citizenship and unlock the benefits of an EU passport. Learn about eligibility requirements, the application process for various EU countries, and how Trace can help you navigate the journey.

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Dual Citizenship

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Polish

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German

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Irish

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Italian

What is Genetic Genealogy? Unveiling the Past with DNA

What is Genetic Genealogy? Unveiling the Past with DNA

The quest to understand our roots and unravel the mysteries of our ancestry has always fascinated humankind. Traditional genealogy, which relies on historical records, has long been the go-to method for tracing family history. However, with the advent of modern science, a new, powerful tool has emerged: genetic genealogy. This technique uses DNA testing to complement traditional genealogical methods, offering deeper and more accurate insights into our lineage. So, what is genetic genealogy, and how does it work? Let's delve into this intriguing subject and explore the various facets of this revolutionary field.

February 23, 2024

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Genealogy

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DNA

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Genetic Genealogy

What Are Direct Ancestors?

What Are Direct Ancestors?

When delving into genealogy, one of the foundational concepts you'll encounter is that of "direct ancestors." These are the individuals from whom you are directly descended, forming a continuous line from your present generation back through history.

February 22, 2024

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Genealogy 101

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Research

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Family Tree

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Genealogy

How Do I Research My Family Tree? A Comprehensive Guide to Tracing Your Ancestry

How Do I Research My Family Tree? A Comprehensive Guide to Tracing Your Ancestry

Learn how to research your family tree with this comprehensive guide. Discover step-by-step methods, useful resources, and tips for tracing your ancestry and uncovering your family history.

February 19, 2024

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Genealogy 101

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Genealogy

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Research

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Family Tree

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Family History

Discovering Your Roots: A Guide to Family History Research

Discovering Your Roots: A Guide to Family History Research

Family history research, also known as genealogy, is a fascinating journey that connects us to our past. It provides insights into who we are, where we come from, and the lives of our ancestors. This guide will walk you through the essential steps of family history research, offering tips and tools to help you uncover your family's unique story. Whether you're a beginner or looking to deepen your knowledge, this guide has something for everyone.

October 11, 2023

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Genealogy 101

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Family History

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Family Tree

Unveiling the Hidden Stories of Our Ancestors: The Unparalleled Genealogical Value of Sanborn Maps

Unveiling the Hidden Stories of Our Ancestors: The Unparalleled Genealogical Value of Sanborn Maps

Utilizing Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps to further ancestral research and add context to family narratives.

October 3, 2023

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Family History

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Genealogy

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Research

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Maps

The Role of Newspapers in Tracing Your Ancestors: Unfolding Stories from the Past

The Role of Newspapers in Tracing Your Ancestors: Unfolding Stories from the Past

Newspapers serve as a veritable goldmine for genealogists. They present a vivid portal to bygone eras, revealing intricate details of our forebears and the epochs they inhabited. From the joy of birth announcements to the solemnity of obituaries, and from community happenings to period advertisements, newspapers amplify our comprehension of familial tales in a manner unparalleled by other sources. This article delves into the indispensable role of newspapers in genealogy, offering insights on leveraging their depths to trace ancestral footsteps.

September 16, 2022

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Genealogy

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Newspapers

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Family History

Understanding the Importance of Land Records in Genealogy: A Guide to Unearthing Ancestral Roots

Understanding the Importance of Land Records in Genealogy: A Guide to Unearthing Ancestral Roots

Land records stand as pivotal treasures in the realm of genealogical exploration. They unfurl a rich tapestry of data, aiding in tracing familial lineages, deciphering the nuances of your ancestors' existences, and unraveling genealogical enigmas. In this article, we illuminate the significance of land records for genealogy and offer insights on harnessing their potential in your investigative journey.

September 2, 2022

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Land Records

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Genealogy

The Influence of Religion on Family Histories: A Genealogical Exploration

The Influence of Religion on Family Histories: A Genealogical Exploration

Throughout history, religion has profoundly shaped human societies, informing our cultures, binding communities, and weaving its way deeply into our individual narratives. Its profound footprint not only marks our ancestors' daily rituals and ethos but also creates rich archival resources that genealogists treasure. This article delves into the symbiotic relationship between religion and family histories, providing insights on how to seamlessly weave religious facets into your genealogical exploration.

August 19, 2022

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Religion

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Family History

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Genealogy

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Jewish

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Catholic

Exploring the World of Census Records: A Genealogist's Guide

Exploring the World of Census Records: A Genealogist's Guide

Census records form the bedrock of genealogical exploration. They capture a family's portrait at specific moments in history, revealing rich details about our ancestors and their lived experiences. This guide will navigate you through the intricate realm of census data, furnishing insights and strategies to optimize their utilization in your genealogical investigations.

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Census

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Genealogy 101

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Tips

The Impact of Immigration on Family Histories: A Genealogical Perspective

The Impact of Immigration on Family Histories: A Genealogical Perspective

Immigration has been a pivotal force in molding the tapestry of our global landscape. For countless individuals, tales of ancestral voyages to unfamiliar terrains are integral threads in our familial narratives. This piece delves into the profound influences of immigration on familial legacies and offers insights into tracing the paths of your forebears

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Family History

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Genealogy

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Canada

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English

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Family Tree

Deciphering Old Handwriting: A Guide for Genealogists

Deciphering Old Handwriting: A Guide for Genealogists

Delving into historic documents and letters is among the most fulfilling facets of genealogical exploration. These age-old treasures reveal abundant details about our forebears and their times. Yet, interpreting bygone handwriting often poses difficulties. This article offers insights and tools to assist you in understanding vintage scripts.

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Genealogy

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Tips

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Paleography

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Handwriting

The Role of DNA Testing in Genealogical Research: A Guide

The Role of DNA Testing in Genealogical Research: A Guide

The emergence of DNA testing has transformed genealogy, offering tools and perspectives that aid in tracing your ancestry, navigating through ancestral obstacles, and discovering your ethnic roots. This detailed guide will explore the significance of DNA testing in genealogical studies, assisting you in leveraging this potent tool to reveal your family's past

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DNA

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Genealogy

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Adoption

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Brick Walls

Unearthing Your Family's Military History: A Comprehensive Guide

Unearthing Your Family's Military History: A Comprehensive Guide

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Military Records

Tracing Your Roots: A Beginner's Guide to Genealogy

Tracing Your Roots: A Beginner's Guide to Genealogy

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Genealogy 101

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Genealogy

How to Use Marginal Annotations in French Deeds

How to Use Marginal Annotations in French Deeds

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French

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Research

III. Explaining Genealogic Germany – Some notes on civil records

III. Explaining Genealogic Germany – Some notes on civil records

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German

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Research

5 More Tips for Embarking on African-American Genealogy

5 More Tips for Embarking on African-American Genealogy

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African American

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Research

5 Tips for Embarking on African-American Genealogy

5 Tips for Embarking on African-American Genealogy

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African American

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Tips

Marginal Annotations in French Deeds

Marginal Annotations in French Deeds

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French

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Research

Using Historical Documents to Capture Student Engagement

Using Historical Documents to Capture Student Engagement

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Kids

Mothering Sunday

Mothering Sunday

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Holiday

Civil War Pension Records: A Wealth of Knowledge

Civil War Pension Records: A Wealth of Knowledge

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Military Records

Going to College…back in the Day…even girls!

Going to College…back in the Day…even girls!

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Family History

The History of Polish National Independence Day

The History of Polish National Independence Day

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Polish

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Research

The Human Element

The Human Element

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Research

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Tips

The Standesamt I. at Berlin and the Civil Records of the Former Eastern Territories of Germany

The Standesamt I. at Berlin and the Civil Records of the Former Eastern Territories of Germany

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German

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Tips

Understanding Your Polish Ancestors: Memory of Cursed Soldiers

Understanding Your Polish Ancestors: Memory of Cursed Soldiers

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Polish

Disease in Puerto Rico

Disease in Puerto Rico

February 28, 2018

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Research

Galveston: The Ellis Island of Texas

Galveston: The Ellis Island of Texas

For years Germans constituted the largest contingency of non-English speaking immigrants to arrive in Galveston. From Aake to Zuspann they arrived. While many Germans arrived at Indianola and made their way inland to the settlements of New Braunfels and Fredricksburg, some chose to disembark at Galveston and make their way to these settlements via a different route.

February 27, 2018

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Research

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Genealogy

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Immigration

The Native American Code Talkers of World War I

The Native American Code Talkers of World War I

February 27, 2018

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Military Records

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Native American

Motivating Others for Genealogical Results

Motivating Others for Genealogical Results

February 26, 2018

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Tips

Finding Records from the War to End All Wars

Finding Records from the War to End All Wars

February 23, 2018

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Military Records

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Research

Finding Children with Learning Difficulties Within Your Family Tree in the late 1800s

Finding Children with Learning Difficulties Within Your Family Tree in the late 1800s

February 22, 2018

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Research

School Log Books: Giving Your Ancestor Character

School Log Books: Giving Your Ancestor Character

February 21, 2018

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Research

World War I Memorial Plaques

World War I Memorial Plaques

February 20, 2018

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Research

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Military Records

NGS Conference in North Carolina

NGS Conference in North Carolina

February 19, 2018

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Archives

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Research

English Easter Celebrations of our Ancestors

English Easter Celebrations of our Ancestors

February 16, 2018

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Holiday

O Canada!

February 15, 2018

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Canada

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Research

The Victorian Deaf in England Part 2: Education and Employment

The Victorian Deaf in England Part 2: Education and Employment

February 14, 2018

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English

The Victorian Deaf in England Part 1: Family Life

The Victorian Deaf in England Part 1: Family Life

February 13, 2018

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English

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Research

Genealogical Sources in Poland

Genealogical Sources in Poland

February 12, 2018

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Polish

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Research

Family Connection – Denmark to the United States

Family Connection – Denmark to the United States

February 9, 2018

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Danish

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Research

Using Pinterest as Part of Your Genealogy Toolbox

Using Pinterest as Part of Your Genealogy Toolbox

February 8, 2018

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Tips

Citizenship in Puerto Rico

Citizenship in Puerto Rico

February 5, 2018

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Census

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Research

Finding the Wayward and the Wanton: Ancestors Who Flew Too Close to the Sun

Finding the Wayward and the Wanton: Ancestors Who Flew Too Close to the Sun

February 2, 2018

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Research

Fun stuff in the 1911 Census

Fun stuff in the 1911 Census

February 1, 2018

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Census

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English

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Welsh

Funeral Home Records: Telling Stories of the Dearly Departed

Funeral Home Records: Telling Stories of the Dearly Departed

January 31, 2018

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Resources

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Vital Records

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Tips

Beginner’s Guide: Document! Document! Document!

Beginner’s Guide: Document! Document! Document!

January 30, 2018

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Genealogy 101

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Research

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Tips

The Problem With Birth Records

The Problem With Birth Records

January 29, 2018

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Research

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Tips

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Vital Records

Combine Religious Records With Related Sources to Discover Family History

Combine Religious Records With Related Sources to Discover Family History

January 26, 2018

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Research

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Tips

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Vital Records

Getting Kids Involved in Genealogy: Part 2

Getting Kids Involved in Genealogy: Part 2

January 25, 2018

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Kids

Getting the Kids Involved in Genealogy

Getting the Kids Involved in Genealogy

January 24, 2018

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Kids

It’s a Grave Situation: Cemeteries, Genealogy, Paying it Forward, and You

It’s a Grave Situation: Cemeteries, Genealogy, Paying it Forward, and You

January 23, 2018

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Research

Free Resources for learning to use your Genetic Test Results for Genealogy

Free Resources for learning to use your Genetic Test Results for Genealogy

January 22, 2018

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DNA

Are Genealogy CD’s Worth It?

Are Genealogy CD’s Worth It?

January 19, 2018

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Resources

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Tips

What Genealogical Information Can Be Found in a Kelly’s Directory?

What Genealogical Information Can Be Found in a Kelly’s Directory?

January 18, 2018

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English

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Research

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Tips

African American Sites to Break Brick Walls

African American Sites to Break Brick Walls

January 17, 2018

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African American

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Brick Walls

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Research

The Hot Genealogy Topic – Family Letters and Diaries

The Hot Genealogy Topic – Family Letters and Diaries

January 16, 2018

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Irish

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Resources

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Tips

Yah Gotta Know the Territory!

Yah Gotta Know the Territory!

January 12, 2018

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Research

The Hidden Value of “Negative” Research Results

The Hidden Value of “Negative” Research Results

January 11, 2018

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Research

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Tips

Census Returns in England and Wales

Census Returns in England and Wales

January 10, 2018

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Census

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English

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Welsh

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Research

Utilizing Muster Rolls to Identify the Dead

Utilizing Muster Rolls to Identify the Dead

January 9, 2018

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Military Records

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Research

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Tips

How Reliable are Parish Registers?

How Reliable are Parish Registers?

January 8, 2018

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English

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Vital Records

Adopted? Starting the Search for Your English Birth Ancestors

Adopted? Starting the Search for Your English Birth Ancestors

January 5, 2018

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Adoption

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English

Mining the 1880 Census Mother Lode: Insanity and Idiocy

Mining the 1880 Census Mother Lode: Insanity and Idiocy

January 4, 2018

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Researching Family Roots in California

Researching Family Roots in California

January 3, 2018

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Research

Then We Saw It, Now We Don’t…

Then We Saw It, Now We Don’t…

January 2, 2018

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Resources

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Vital Records

Using S.M.A.R.T.’s to Crystalize Your Genealogy Goals

Using S.M.A.R.T.’s to Crystalize Your Genealogy Goals

January 1, 2018

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Tips

Civil Registration in England and Wales

Civil Registration in England and Wales

December 29, 2017

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English

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Welsh

Who is Your Intended Audience?

Who is Your Intended Audience?

December 28, 2017

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Recording History

Genealogy on Deadline: Newspapers Bring Ancestors to Life

Genealogy on Deadline: Newspapers Bring Ancestors to Life

December 27, 2017

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Newspapers

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Research

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Tips

The Disrespectful Epidemic Affecting Cemeteries & Historic Sites

The Disrespectful Epidemic Affecting Cemeteries & Historic Sites

December 26, 2017

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Research

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Vital Records

Christmas Past in England

Christmas Past in England

December 25, 2017

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Holiday

What the Neighbours Can Tell You

What the Neighbours Can Tell You

December 21, 2017

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Census

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Research

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Tips

The Hidden Treasure You May Not Know You Have

The Hidden Treasure You May Not Know You Have

December 20, 2017

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Research

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Tips

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Vital Records

Last Minute Gifts for the Genealogist

Last Minute Gifts for the Genealogist

December 19, 2017

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Holiday

Is Your Family’s Heritage Native American? Native American Research Resources

Is Your Family’s Heritage Native American? Native American Research Resources

December 18, 2017

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Native American

All I Want For Christmas

All I Want For Christmas

December 15, 2017

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Holiday

10 Obscure Occupations Found on the 1880 Census

10 Obscure Occupations Found on the 1880 Census

December 14, 2017

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Census

The History of Parish Registers in England and Wales

The History of Parish Registers in England and Wales

December 13, 2017

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English

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Welsh

Oral History: Beginner’s Guide to Interviewing Your Family

Oral History: Beginner’s Guide to Interviewing Your Family

December 12, 2017

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Research

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Oral History

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Tips

Handmade Christmas Presents with a Family History Twist

Handmade Christmas Presents with a Family History Twist

December 11, 2017

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Holiday

Jewish Genealogy Series: Given Names, Here and There

Jewish Genealogy Series: Given Names, Here and There

December 8, 2017

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Ancestor Names

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Family Spellings

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Jewish

Holiday Traditions: Important to Family Roots

Holiday Traditions: Important to Family Roots

December 7, 2017

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Holiday

State Archives Preserve the Tapestries of Ancestors’ Lives (Part II)

State Archives Preserve the Tapestries of Ancestors’ Lives (Part II)

December 6, 2017

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Archives

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Research

State Archives Preserve the Tapestries of Ancestors’ Lives (Part I)

State Archives Preserve the Tapestries of Ancestors’ Lives (Part I)

December 5, 2017

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Archives

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Research

Newspaper Archives in England and Wales

Newspaper Archives in England and Wales

December 4, 2017

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Resources

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Newspapers

GPS: Where You’ve Been & Where You’re Going

GPS: Where You’ve Been & Where You’re Going

December 1, 2017

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Research

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Tips

Finding Clues within Historic and Topographical Maps

Finding Clues within Historic and Topographical Maps

November 30, 2017

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Research

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Tips