Welcome to the blog of Darrell Gibbs. Here, you’ll find regular updates and more.
Whether you’re a family historian looking for tips and inspiration or a fan of Darrell’s blog which is a must-read. Don’t forget to subscribe to our mailing list to stay up-to-date on all the latest posts and news.
14 Genealogy Search Strategies for Finding Hidden and Unindexed Records
When your ancestor doesn’t appear in a genealogy search, it doesn’t mean the record doesn’t exist. Discover 14 practical strategies for finding hidden and unindexed records, from browsing original images and searching alternative spellings to exploring archives, newspapers, family networks, and full-text search tools. Learn how to move beyond the search box and uncover family-history…
MyHeritage Adds Y-DNA
MyHeritage has introduced Y-DNA analysis, giving many existing DNA users a new look at their direct paternal ancestry. Discover what Y-DNA haplogroups can reveal, how the new feature works, and when FamilyTreeDNA’s high-resolution Big Y-700 test may help solve a difficult paternal-line genealogy mystery.
Effective Research Strategies for Family Historians
Pip: There’s a moment in every family historian’s life when a name on a document stops being a stranger and becomes someone you’re responsible for remembering — and Darrell Gibbs has built an entire site around that moment. Mara: That’s the territory we’re covering today — how to get started in genealogy, what research strategies…
About Your DNA
DNA is one of the most powerful tools available to modern genealogists. By understanding your genetic heritage, you can uncover family connections, verify ancestral lines, break through long-standing research brick walls, and discover relatives you never knew existed. This article explains the different types of DNA tests, how DNA matches work, the value of ethnicity…
10 Reasons to Research Immigration and Naturalization Records
Immigration and naturalization records are among the most valuable resources in genealogy research. From passenger lists and citizenship papers to border crossings and ship manifests, these records can reveal where your ancestors came from, when they arrived, who they traveled with, and the stories behind their journey to a new life. Discover 10 powerful reasons…
Whispers in Stone
Cemeteries offer more than quiet reflection—they are powerful, often overlooked resources for uncovering family history. Gravestones provide key details like names, dates, symbols, and epitaphs that reveal relationships, beliefs, and personal stories. Beyond what’s carved in stone, sexton records can fill in missing pieces with valuable information such as burial details, next of kin, and…
The Modern Family Historian
This blog post introduces a modern, practical strategy for new family historians navigating today’s genealogy landscape. It emphasizes moving beyond simply collecting names to building accurate, meaningful family histories through careful verification, focused research, and thoughtful organization. By combining traditional methods with modern tools like DNA testing and digital archives, beginners can uncover deeper connections…
How to Build Your First Family Tree (Step-by-Step)
Building your first family tree is one of the most exciting steps in genealogy. It transforms scattered names and dates into a clear picture of how generations connect. For beginners, the key is starting simple and building carefully. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to build your first family tree the right way,…
Genealogy Basics
How to Start Tracing Your Family History for Beginners Genealogy—the study of family history—is one of the most rewarding hobbies you can begin. Many people feel curious about their ancestors but don’t know where to start. If you’re new to genealogy, the process can seem overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. This…
Discovering Your Past: Why I Built This Journey and What You’ll Gain
“My blog, Discovering Your Past, is all about helping you explore your family history with practical tools, resources, and inspiration to connect with the stories that shaped who you are today.”
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