Obtaining Important Documents

Birth Certificates or Baptism Records, Marriage Records, Death or Burial Records and Obituary Notices

Obtaining or locating copies of birth certificates, baptism records, marriage records, death or burial records, and obituary notices is an essential part of genealogy research. These records provide important information about your ancestors, including their names, dates of birth, marriage, and death, and can provide valuable insights into your family history. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of records and how to obtain or locate copies of them.

One of the most important records for genealogy research is the birth certificate. Birth certificates provide information about an individual’s name, date of birth, parents’ names, and place of birth. They are typically issued by the government and can be obtained from the state or country where the individual was born. Many online genealogy websites and archives also have digitized versions of birth certificates available for searching and viewing.

Another important record for genealogy research is the baptism record. Baptism records provide information about an individual’s name, date of baptism, parents’ names, and the name of the church or institution where the baptism took place. They are typically held by the church or institution where the baptism took place, and can often be found in church archives or in the records of local genealogical societies.

Marriage records are also an essential part of genealogy research. They provide information about an individual’s name, date of marriage, and the name of the spouse. They are typically issued by the government and can be obtained from the state or country where the marriage took place. Many online genealogy websites and archives also have digitized versions of marriage records available for searching and viewing.

Death or burial records provide information about an individual’s name, date of death, and place of burial. They are typically issued by the government and can be obtained from the state or country where the individual died. Many online genealogy websites and archives also have digitized versions of death and burial records available for searching and viewing.

Obituary notices are another valuable resource for genealogy research. They provide information about an individual’s name, date of death, and a brief summary of their life and accomplishments. They are typically found in newspapers or online, and can be searched using online newspaper archives or through online genealogy websites.

When obtaining or locating copies of records, it’s important to keep in mind that the availability and accessibility of records can vary depending on the country or state where the ancestor lived. Some countries or states may have stricter privacy laws or may not have digitized records available online. In these cases, it may be necessary to contact the government agency or institution directly to obtain copies of the records.

Additionally, it’s also important to keep in mind that the information in these records may not always be accurate or complete. Some records may have been lost or destroyed over time, and others may contain errors. It’s important to verify the information in these records with other sources, such as census records, wills, and other legal documents.

In conclusion, obtaining or locating copies of birth certificates, baptism records, marriage records, death or burial records, and obituary notices is an essential part of genealogy research. These records provide important information about your ancestors, including their names, dates of birth, marriage, and death, and can provide valuable insights into your family history. The availability and accessibility of records can vary depending on the country or state where the ancestor lived, and it’s important to verify the information in these records with other sources. With the right resources and research methods, you can uncover a wealth of information about your ancestors and gain a deeper understanding of your family history.

Step 9. Contact other relatives and descendants through ancestry website or a Genealogy forum

Welcome back to this installment of the 22 Steps in Researching Your Family Tree!

Why did the genealogist go to the cemetery with a pencil and paper?

To trace his roots!

Genealogy is a fascinating pursuit that allows us to explore our family history and connect with our ancestors. As we delve deeper into our family trees, we often discover that we have many relatives and descendants who share our interest in genealogy. Fortunately, the rise of technology has made it easier than ever to connect with others who may hold valuable information about our family history. In this article, we will explore the strategy of contacting other relatives and descendants through ancestry websites or genealogy forums. By utilizing these resources and following some simple tips, we can uncover new leads, gain valuable insights, and make exciting discoveries in our family history research.

Genealogy can be an exciting and fulfilling pursuit as we search for our roots and learn about the lives of our ancestors. With the rise of technology, it has become increasingly easier to connect with other relatives and descendants who may hold valuable information about our family history. In this article, we will discuss the strategy of contacting other relatives and descendants through ancestry websites or genealogy forums.

Ancestry Websites

Ancestry websites, such as Ancestry.com, have become popular resources for researching family history. These websites allow users to create family trees, search historical records, and connect with other users who may be researching the same family lines. Ancestry.com has a feature called DNA testing, which can provide users with information about their ethnic background and help them connect with distant relatives who share the same DNA.

One of the key benefits of using Ancestry.com is the ability to connect with other relatives and descendants who may have additional information about your family history. You can send messages to other users who are researching the same ancestors and share your research findings with them. This can lead to valuable insights and new leads to follow in your research.

If you’re looking to connect with other relatives and descendants through online genealogy websites, there are several strategies you can use to make the most of your research. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Use DNA Testing: DNA testing has revolutionized genealogy research, allowing you to connect with distant relatives who share the same DNA. Ancestry.com has a feature called DNA testing, which can provide users with information about their ethnic background and help them connect with distant relatives. By testing your DNA and connecting with others who share the same DNA, you may be able to uncover new leads and make exciting discoveries in your family history research.
  2. Create a Detailed Profile: When using genealogy websites, it’s important to create a detailed profile that includes information about your family history research. This can help you connect with other users who may be researching the same family lines. Be sure to include as much information as possible, such as names, dates, and locations of your ancestors.
  3. Use Message Boards: Many genealogy websites have message boards where users can post questions or information about their family history research. These message boards can be a great way to connect with other users who may have valuable information about your family history. Be sure to check these message boards regularly and respond to any messages that may be relevant to your research.
  4. Join Genealogy Groups: Many genealogy websites have groups or communities that are organized by geographic region, surname, or research interest. Joining these groups can be a great way to connect with other users who share your interests and may have valuable information about your family history.
  5. Reach Out to Other Users: When you find other users who may be researching the same family lines, don’t be afraid to reach out to them. Send them a message and introduce yourself, and ask if they would be interested in sharing information or collaborating on research. Be respectful and provide them with information about your research and what you are looking for.

By utilizing these strategies, you can make the most of your research on genealogy websites and connect with other relatives and descendants who may hold valuable information about your family history.

Step-by-Step Guide using Ancestry.com
  1. Sign in to your Ancestry.com account. If you do not have an account, create one by signing up for a free trial.
  2. Navigate to the “Search” tab on the top of the Ancestry homepage.
  3. Enter the name of your ancestor into the search bar, along with any other relevant information such as birth or death dates or locations.
  4. Review the search results and select any relevant records, such as census records or marriage records, to add to your ancestor’s profile.
  5. Click on the “Family Tree” tab to view your family tree.
  6. Navigate to the ancestor that you are researching and click on their name to view their profile.
  7. Scroll down to the “Family Members” section and click on the “View all” button to view all of your ancestor’s family members.
  8. Look for any family members that you have not yet added to your family tree.
  9. Click on the name of the family member to view their profile.
  10. If the family member has already been added to another user’s family tree, you may be able to view the tree by clicking on the “View Tree” button.
  11. If the family member has not been added to any other trees, you can use the “Search” tab to try and find additional records or information about them.
  12. If you find any new information or potential leads, make a note of it and consider reaching out to other users who may be researching the same family lines.
  13. To reach out to other users, navigate to the “Message Center” tab on the top of the Ancestry homepage.
  14. Click on the “Compose Message” button to send a message to another user.
  15. Be sure to follow the tips and strategies outlined in this article when contacting other users.

By following these steps and utilizing Ancestry.com’s search and family tree features, you can connect with other relatives and descendants who may hold valuable information about your family history.

Genealogy Forums

Genealogy forums are online communities where users can discuss their family history research and connect with others who share the same interests. These forums can be a valuable resource for connecting with other relatives and descendants who may have information about your family history.

Many genealogy forums are organized by geographic region, surname, or research interest. You can join these forums and post questions or information about your family history research. Other users can respond with their own research findings or share information about their own family history that may be relevant to your research.

Genealogy forums can also be a great place to connect with distant relatives who may be researching the same family lines. By sharing information and collaborating with others, you can piece together a more complete picture of your family history.

When using genealogy forums to connect with other relatives and descendants, there are several strategies that can help you make the most out of your experience. Here are some tips:

  1. Join relevant forums: There are many genealogy forums available online, so it’s important to join forums that are relevant to your research. Look for forums that focus on your ancestral region or the surnames you are researching.
  2. Be specific in your post titles: When creating a post, make sure your title is specific and accurately describes the topic you’re asking about. This will help other users understand what you’re looking for and increase the likelihood of getting a response.
  3. Provide details: In your post, provide as many details as possible about the ancestor or family line you’re researching. This will help other users provide relevant information or suggest new avenues of research.
  4. Respond to other users’ posts: Participating in discussions and responding to other users’ posts can help you build relationships with other researchers and increase the likelihood of receiving help in return.
  5. Be respectful and patient: Remember that other users on genealogy forums are volunteers and may not have the time or resources to respond immediately. Be patient and respectful in your interactions with other users.
  6. Follow forum rules: Each genealogy forum has its own set of rules and guidelines. Make sure you read and follow these rules to avoid being banned or having your posts removed.
  7. Use private messaging for sensitive information: If you need to share sensitive information, such as personal contact details, use the private messaging function rather than posting it publicly on the forum.
  8. Offer help in return: If you’re able to help another user with their research, offer your assistance. This can help build relationships and foster a sense of community within the forum.

By following these strategies, you can effectively use genealogy forums to connect with other relatives and descendants and gain valuable information about your family history.

Charlotte’s Story

Here is a story about Charlotte and how she used Step 9 to her advantage:

Charlotte had always been interested in her family history, but she had hit a brick wall in her research when it came to her great-great-great-grandmother, Margaret. She had searched through census records, birth and death certificates, and marriage licenses, but she couldn’t find any information about Margaret’s parents or where she had come from.

Frustrated with her lack of progress, Charlotte turned to Step 9 of her research plan and decided to reach out to other relatives and descendants through genealogy forums. She joined several forums and posted questions about Margaret, hoping that someone might have some information that could help her.

To her surprise, she received a response from a distant cousin who had been researching the same family line. The cousin had a family Bible that had been passed down through the generations and contained information about Margaret’s parents and siblings. Charlotte was thrilled and grateful for the information and the cousin was happy to share their findings.

Through collaboration with the cousin, Charlotte was able to piece together more information about Margaret’s life and family history. She discovered that Margaret had grown up in a small town in Virginia and had married a man from a neighbouring town. They had moved to Ohio where they had several children, including Charlotte’s great-great-grandfather.

With the information provided by her cousin, Charlotte was able to fill in the gaps in her family tree and make new connections. She continued to stay in touch with her cousin and they shared information and photos of their ancestors. It was a rewarding experience for Charlotte, and she felt like she had gained a better understanding of her family history and heritage.

In the end, Charlotte realized that by reaching out to other relatives and descendants, she was able to break down the brick wall in her research and uncover new information about her great-great-great-grandmother Margaret. She was grateful for the resources available through genealogy forums and the willingness of others to collaborate and share their findings.

Tips for Contacting Other Relatives and Descendants

When contacting other relatives and descendants through ancestry websites or genealogy forums, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Be respectful: Remember that you are contacting real people who may be busy with their own lives. Be polite and respectful in your messages and give them time to respond.
  2. Provide information: When reaching out to other users, provide them with information about your research and what you are looking for. This will help them understand how they can assist you.
  3. Share your research findings: When connecting with other users, share your own research findings with them. This can lead to valuable insights and new leads to follow in your research.
  4. Be open to collaboration: Collaboration with others can be a powerful tool in genealogy research. Be open to working with other researchers and sharing information to help each other achieve your research goals.

List of Some Genealogy Forum Websites

  1. Ancestry Message Boards – https://www.ancestry.com/boards/
  2. Genealogy.com Forums – https://www.genealogy.com/forum/
  3. Family Tree Forum – https://www.familytreeforum.com/
  4. RootsChat.com – https://www.rootschat.com/forum/
  5. MyHeritage Community – https://www.myheritage.com/community
  6. Genealogy Wise – https://www.genealogywise.com/
  7. Find a Grave Forums – https://www.findagraveforums.com/
  8. Cyndi’s List – Genealogy Resources – https://cyndislist.com/forums/
  9. GenealogyForum.co.uk – http://www.genealogyforum.co.uk/
  10. Genealogy-Forum.de – https://www.genealogy-forum.de/

These forums are a great resource for connecting with other genealogists, asking for help with research, and sharing information about your family history.

Conclusion

Contacting other relatives and descendants through ancestry websites or genealogy forums can be a powerful strategy in your family history research. It allows you to connect with other researchers who may have valuable information about your family history and collaborate with them to uncover new leads and insights. When contacting other users, it is important to be respectful, provide information, share your research findings, and be open to collaboration. Remember to use these strategies to maximize your chances of success. By leveraging the power of technology and online communities, you can make exciting discoveries and piece together the puzzle of your family history.

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Further Reading

NOTE:

In closing this blog post, I hope that this blog series has been beneficial to you in learning more about genealogy and how to trace your family history. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback on the series or would like to suggest any improvements, please don’t hesitate to send me a message or email. I value your input and appreciate your support in helping me to create more helpful and informative content for aspiring genealogists. Thank you for following along on this journey, and I wish you the best of luck in your own genealogical research.

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Finding Vital Records – Where to Look and How to Access Them

Genealogy research involves tracing one’s family tree back through history to discover ancestors and learn about their lives. One of the most important tools for genealogists is vital records, which are official documents that document significant life events such as births, marriages, and deaths. By accessing these records, researchers can gather essential information to help them fill out their family trees and connect with their ancestors. In this article, we will explore where to find and how to access vital records for birth, marriage, death, and cemetery records. Whether you are just starting your genealogy journey or have been researching for years, this guide will provide you with valuable information and resources to help you discover your family history.

Birth Records

Birth records are an essential piece of information for those who are interested in tracing their family history. These records can provide a wealth of information about your ancestors, including their full names, dates of birth, parents’ names, and other vital information. However, finding these records can be a challenging task, particularly if you are new to genealogy research. In this article, we will discuss where to find birth records to help you in your search.

  1. Local Government Offices – One of the first places to start searching for birth records is at the local government office where the birth occurred. In the United States, this is typically the county clerk’s office or the state vital records office. You can find contact information for these offices online, or by calling your local library or historical society.
  2. Online Genealogy Databases – Online genealogy databases, such as Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.org, can be a great resource for locating birth records. These databases contain millions of records from all over the world and are often free or available for a small subscription fee. Once you have found a record, you can typically view it online, download it, or order a copy.
  3. National Archives – The National Archives is another excellent resource for finding birth records. In the United States, you can search the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) online catalog for records related to births. NARA also has regional archives around the country where you can view records in person.
  4. Local Libraries and Historical Societies – Local libraries and historical societies can also be valuable resources for finding birth records. Many of these organizations have collections of records that may not be available anywhere else, and their staff may be able to help you locate the records you are looking for.
  5. Church Records – If your ancestors were members of a church, their baptismal records may contain information about their birth. These records can be found at the church where the baptism occurred or at the church’s headquarters if it is a larger organization. Some church records are also available online through genealogy databases or websites specific to that religion.

Websites for Finding Birth Records:

Finding birth records can be a challenge, but with the resources available online and in person, it is possible to trace your family’s history back several generations. Start with the resources listed above, and don’t be afraid to reach out to local experts and organizations for help. By taking the time to search for these records, you may uncover a wealth of information about your family’s past that you never knew before.

As I live in Canada, the remainder of this blog article will be tailored to family historians researching their Canadian ancestors using the resources to them online.

Finding Birth Records in Canada

When researching your family history, birth records can provide a wealth of valuable information about your ancestors. In Canada, birth records are typically kept by the provinces and territories, each with their own rules and regulations for accessing them. In this article, we’ll explore where to look and how to access birth records in Canada.

Provincial and Territorial Vital Statistics Agencies

Each province and territory in Canada has its own vital statistics agency that is responsible for maintaining birth records. These agencies are typically part of the Ministry of Health or the Department of Health, and they usually have websites where you can search for and order copies of birth certificates.

Click each province and territory’s vital statistics agency for more information at the provincial level:

• Alberta

• British Columbia

• Manitoba

• New Brunswick

• Newfoundland and Labrador

• Northwest Territories

• Nova Scotia

• Nunavut

• Ontario

• Prince Edward Island

• Quebec

• Saskatchewan

• Yukon

Accessing Birth Records

The rules for accessing birth records vary by province and territory. Generally, birth records are considered private and confidential for a certain period of time, usually 100 years from the date of birth. After that period, they may be publicly available, but some provinces have longer or shorter waiting periods.

To obtain a copy of a birth certificate, you will typically need to provide the following information:

  • The full name of the person whose birth certificate you are requesting
  • The date and place of birth
  • The names of the person’s parents
  • Your relationship to the person

In some cases, you may also need to provide proof of identity or other documentation.

Genealogy Websites

In addition to provincial and territorial vital statistics agencies, there are also a number of genealogy websites that offer access to Canadian birth records. These websites may charge a fee for access or require a subscription.

Here are some popular genealogy websites with Canadian birth records:

These websites can be useful for searching across multiple provinces or territories at once, but keep in mind that they may not have access to all records.

Birth records are a valuable source of information for genealogical research, providing important details about your ancestors’ lives. In Canada, these records are typically maintained by each provincial agency. Finding birth records can be a challenge, but with the resources available online and in person, it is possible to trace your family’s history back several generations. Start with the resources listed above, and don’t be afraid to reach out to local experts and organizations for help. By taking the time to search for these records, you may uncover a wealth of information about your family’s past that you never knew before.

Finding Marriage Records in Canada

Tracing your family tree involves piecing together the stories of your ancestors, and marriage records can provide valuable information about their lives. Marriage records in Canada typically include the names of the couple, their ages, occupations, places of birth, parents’ names, and the date and location of the marriage. If you’re searching for marriage records in Canada, there are several resources available to help you locate them.

1. Vital Statistics Offices

Each province and territory in Canada has a Vital Statistics Office that maintains records of births, marriages, and deaths. You can contact the Vital Statistics Office in the province or territory where the marriage took place to obtain a copy of the marriage certificate. The process and cost of obtaining a copy may vary depending on the province or territory.

  • Alberta: Alberta Vital Statistics
  • British Columbia: Vital Statistics Agency
  • Manitoba: Vital Statistics Agency
  • New Brunswick: Vital Statistics
  • Newfoundland and Labrador: Vital Statistics Division
  • Northwest Territories: Vital Statistics
  • Nova Scotia: Vital Statistics
  • Nunavut: Vital Statistics
  • Ontario: ServiceOntario
  • Prince Edward Island: Vital Statistics
  • Quebec: Directeur de l’état civil
  • Saskatchewan: Vital Statistics

2. Library and Archives Canada

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is the national repository of Canadian historical records, including vital statistics records. You can search for marriage records on their website using the Genealogy and Family History page. LAC provides access to historical records that are over 100 years old and are available online or on microfilm.

3. Ancestry.ca

Ancestry.ca is a subscription-based website that provides access to a large collection of Canadian marriage records. Ancestry.ca has over 29 million Canadian marriages dating back to the early 1800s, and you can search for marriage records by name, location, and date.

4. FamilySearch.org

FamilySearch.org is a free genealogy website that provides access to a vast collection of historical records, including Canadian marriage records. The website has over 13 million marriage records for Canada, and you can search by name, location, and date.

5. Provincial Archives

Some provinces have Provincial Archives that maintain historical records, including vital statistics records. The Provincial Archives may have marriage records that are not available through other sources. You can search for the Provincial Archives in the province where the marriage took place to see if they have marriage records available.

Marriage records can provide valuable information about your ancestors, and there are several resources available to help you locate them. Whether you’re looking for a copy of a marriage certificate from a Vital Statistics Office, searching the national repository of Canadian historical records at LAC, or using online genealogy websites like Ancestry.ca and FamilySearch.org, the key to success in finding your ancestors’ marriage records is perseverance and persistence.

Finding Death Records in Canada

Death records are a valuable resource for genealogists and family historians. They provide information about the date, place, and cause of death of our ancestors, as well as details about their age, occupation, and other personal information. In Canada, death records are generally held by provincial or territorial vital statistics offices, and accessing them can be a bit of a challenge. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to find death records in Canada, including online databases, government archives, and other resources.

1. Online Databases

The first place to start your search for Canadian death records is online. There are several databases that provide access to death records, including:

  • Ancestry.ca: is one of the most comprehensive genealogy websites in Canada, and it has a large collection of death records. The website requires a subscription, but you can access many records for free through a free trial.
  • Library and Archives Canada: has a collection of death records that spans from the 1660s to the 1990s. The collection is available for free online and includes death certificates, obituaries, and other death-related documents.
  • FamilySearch.org: is a free genealogy website that provides access to a variety of records, including Canadian death records. The website has a large collection of death certificates and other death-related documents.

2. Provincial and Territorial Vital Statistics Offices

If you can’t find the death record you’re looking for online, you may need to contact the vital statistics office in the province or territory where your ancestor died. Each province and territory has its own office that is responsible for maintaining vital records. Here are some of the key offices to contact:

3. Other Resources

In addition to online databases and vital statistics offices, there are several other resources you can use to find Canadian death records. Here are a few ideas:

  • Cemetery Records: Cemetery records can provide valuable information about our ancestors, including their date of death, age, and place of burial. Many cemetery records are available online, and you can often find them by searching for the name of the cemetery or the location. The Canadian Gravemarker Gallery is a useful resource for finding cemetery records in Canada.
  • Newspapers: Obituaries and death notices are often published in newspapers, providing valuable information about the deceased and their family. Many newspapers are available online through subscription services or free archives, such as the Canadian Newspaper Archive.
  • Funeral Homes: Funeral homes often keep records of the funerals they have conducted, which can provide information about the deceased and their family. Contacting local funeral homes in the area where your ancestor lived may lead to valuable information.
  • Church Records: Churches may have kept records of births, marriages, and deaths, particularly in earlier times. Some church records have been digitized and made available online through websites such as FamilySearch and Ancestry.

Canadian death records can provide valuable information about our ancestors, helping us to fill in the gaps in our family history. With the numerous resources available, including online databases, vital statistics offices, cemetery records, newspapers, funeral homes, and church records, it is easier than ever to find Canadian death records. Utilizing these resources can help us to uncover the stories of our ancestors and keep their memories alive for generations to come.

Finding Cemetery Records in Canada

Cemetery records are an excellent resource for genealogists and family historians. They can provide valuable information about our ancestors, such as their date of death, age, and place of burial. Fortunately, many cemetery records are available online, making it easier than ever to locate your Canadian ancestors. In this article, we’ll explore where to find cemetery records in Canada and how to access them.

1. Canadian Gravemarker Gallery

The Canadian Gravemarker Gallery is a free online resource that provides access to over two million gravestone photos and transcriptions from across Canada. The site is searchable by name, cemetery, province, and even by GPS coordinates. In addition to photos and transcriptions, the site also includes obituaries, biographies, and other genealogical information.

2. Find A Grave

Find A Grave is another online resource that provides access to cemetery records. The site is a global database of gravesites and includes over 200 million memorials from around the world. You can search for Canadian gravesites by name, location, or cemetery. The site also includes photos, obituaries, and biographical information.

3. Library and Archives Canada

Library and Archives Canada is a valuable resource for genealogical research. The site provides access to a wide range of Canadian records, including census records, military records, and vital statistics. In addition, the site has a large collection of cemetery records, including burial registers, burial permits, and cemetery plans. These records can be accessed online or in person at one of the Library and Archives Canada locations.

4. Provincial Archives

Many provinces in Canada have their own archives, which can provide access to cemetery records. For example, the Archives of Ontario has a large collection of cemetery records, including cemetery transcriptions, burial registers, and gravestone inscriptions. Other provincial archives, such as the Provincial Archives of Manitoba and the Provincial Archives of Saskatchewan, also have extensive collections of cemetery records.

5. Local Historical Societies: Many local historical societies in Canada have collections of cemetery records. These societies are often run by volunteers who are passionate about preserving local history and genealogy. You can find local historical societies by searching online or contacting your local library or archives.

Finding cemetery records in Canada is easier than ever thanks to the availability of online resources. The above websites and archives are just a few of the many options available for locating Canadian cemetery records. By utilizing these resources, you can uncover valuable information about your ancestors and bring their stories to life.

In conclusion, vital records are essential in genealogy research as they provide vital information about our ancestors. With the advancement of technology, accessing these records has become more accessible and convenient than ever before. From birth records to death records, many online databases and vital statistics offices are available to help you find the records you need.

It is important to remember that not all records are available online, and sometimes a visit to a physical location may be necessary. Additionally, it is crucial to verify the accuracy of the information found in these records by cross-referencing with other sources.

In summary, when researching your family history, be sure to take advantage of all the resources available to you, including online databases, vital statistics offices, and other resources such as cemetery records and newspapers. By utilizing these tools and following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can successfully trace your ancestors and uncover their life stories.