Genealogy Search Strategies – Using Online Genealogy Databases

Online genealogy databases have become an essential tool for family history research. These databases allow you to access a wealth of information about your ancestors from the comfort of your own home. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of using online genealogy databases, as well as some tips for getting the most out of your research.

One of the biggest benefits of using online genealogy databases is the convenience they offer. With just a few clicks of a button, you can access millions of records from all over the world. This includes census records, birth, marriage, and death records, military records, and much more. This can save you a lot of time and energy compared to having to visit local archives or libraries to access the same information.

Another benefit of online genealogy databases is the ability to collaborate with other researchers. Many of these databases offer a feature where you can connect with other researchers who are also searching for ancestors in your family tree. This can be a great way to share information and get help with your research. Additionally, these databases often have forums or discussion boards where you can ask questions and get answers from other researchers.

When using online genealogy databases, it’s important to be organized and keep track of your research. This can be done by creating a research plan and keeping detailed notes on the information you find. This will help you avoid duplicating your research and ensure that you don’t miss any important details.

It’s also important to be aware of the different types of records available on online genealogy databases. For example, census records can provide a wealth of information such as names, ages, occupations, and addresses of your ancestors. Birth, marriage, and death records can also provide valuable information about your ancestors. Military records can provide information about your ancestors’ military service, including their rank, unit, and service dates.

It’s also important to note that not all online genealogy databases are created equal. Some databases may have more records for certain countries or regions, while others may have more records for specific time periods. It’s important to do your research and find the databases that are best for your specific needs.

One of the most popular online genealogy databases is Ancestry.com. Ancestry offers a wide range of records from all over the world, including census records, birth, marriage, and death records, military records, and much more. Ancestry also offers a feature called AncestryDNA which allows you to connect with relatives you didn’t know you had by matching your DNA with others in their database.

Another popular online genealogy database is FamilySearch.org. FamilySearch is a non-profit organization that offers a wide range of records from all over the world. This includes census records, birth, marriage, and death records, military records, and much more. FamilySearch also offers a feature called Family Tree where you can create a free family tree and connect with other researchers.

In conclusion, online genealogy databases are an essential tool for family history research. They offer convenience, collaboration, and a wealth of information. By being organized, aware of the different types of records available, and finding the right database for your specific needs, you can make the most out of your research and uncover new insights into your family’s past.

Genealogy Search Strategies – Utilizing DNA Testing

DNA testing has become an increasingly popular tool for genealogy research in recent years. By analyzing your DNA, these tests can reveal information about your ancestry and potential relatives. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of using DNA testing for genealogy research, as well as some tips for getting the most out of your results.

One of the biggest benefits of DNA testing is the ability to uncover new information about your ancestry. By analyzing your DNA, these tests can reveal information about your ethnicity, where your ancestors came from, and even potential relatives you didn’t know you had. This can be especially helpful for adoptees or individuals with little known about their family history.

DNA testing can also help break down genealogical brick walls. These are situations where traditional genealogy research has hit a dead end, and you can’t find any more information about your ancestors. DNA testing can provide a new avenue for research by connecting you with relatives who may have more information about your family history.

Another benefit of DNA testing is the ability to connect with living relatives. Many DNA testing companies offer a feature where you can connect with other individuals who have taken the test and share a significant amount of DNA with you. This can be a great way to learn more about your family history and make new connections with relatives you didn’t know you had.

When using DNA testing for genealogy research, it’s important to understand the different types of tests available. There are three main types of DNA tests: autosomal DNA tests, Y-DNA tests, and mtDNA tests. Autosomal DNA tests analyze DNA from all 22 pairs of autosomes and the X chromosome. These tests can provide information about your ethnicity and potential relatives. Y-DNA tests analyze the Y chromosome, which is passed down from father to son. These tests can provide information about your direct paternal line. mtDNA tests analyze the mitochondrial DNA, which is passed down from mother to child. These tests can provide information about your direct maternal line.

It’s also important to be aware of the limitations of DNA testing. DNA testing can provide a lot of valuable information, but it’s not a substitute for traditional genealogy research. DNA testing can’t tell you the names of your ancestors or provide specific information about your family history. Additionally, DNA testing can’t confirm or disprove a genealogical hypothesis or answer every question about your ancestry.

When choosing a DNA testing company, it’s important to do your research and find a reputable company with a large database of customers. This will increase the chances of finding potential relatives. Some of the most popular DNA testing companies include 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and Family Tree DNA. Each company has its own strengths, so it’s important to research and find the one that best suits your needs.

In conclusion, DNA testing can be a valuable tool for genealogy research. It can provide new insights into your ancestry and connect you with potential relatives. However, it’s important to understand the limitations of DNA testing and to use it in conjunction with traditional genealogy research. By understanding the different types of tests available, being aware of the limitations, and choosing a reputable company with a large database, you can make the most out of your DNA test results and gain a deeper understanding of your family history.

Genealogy Search Strategies – Collaborating With Others

Collaborating with others in your genealogy research can be a great way to share information, get help with your research, and make new connections. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of collaborating with others, as well as some tips for getting the most out of your research.

One of the biggest benefits of collaborating with others is the ability to share information. Genealogy research can be a lot of work and collaborating with others can make it much easier. By sharing information about your research, such as the records you’ve found or the questions you’re trying to answer, you can help others and also help yourself to identify new leads and connections. Additionally, collaborating with others can be a great way to learn about new resources and techniques for genealogy research.

Another benefit of collaborating with others is the ability to get help with your research. Collaborating with other researchers who are also searching for ancestors in your family tree can be a great way to get help with your research. Additionally, many genealogy societies and organizations have research groups where you can connect with other researchers and get help with your research.

When collaborating with others, it’s important to be respectful and professional. Genealogy research can be a sensitive topic, and it’s important to be mindful of the other members and avoid posting anything that could be considered offensive or disrespectful. Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of the privacy of others and not to share any information about living individuals without their permission.

It’s also important to be organized and keep track of the information you find in collaboration. This can be done by creating a research plan and keeping detailed notes on the information you find. This will help you avoid duplicating your research and ensure that you don’t miss any important details.

There are many ways to collaborate with others in genealogy research. Some popular ways include joining online genealogy communities, collaborating with other researchers who are searching for the same ancestors, and hiring a professional genealogist. Additionally, many genealogy societies and organizations have research groups where you can connect with other researchers and get help with your research.

In conclusion, collaborating with others in genealogy research can be a great way to share information, get help with your research, and make new connections. By being respectful and professional, being organized and keeping track of the information you find, and finding the right collaboration opportunities, you can make the most out of your research and gain a deeper understanding of your family history. Additionally, collaborating with others can help you overcome genealogy brick walls, find new resources and techniques and give you the support and motivation to continue your research.

This is the last Blog Post for ‘Genealogy Search Strategies’ that was part of a 6 Blog Post Series. I hope you find the information useful while you research your family tree.

Darrell Gibbs, Author of ‘22 Steps in Researching Your Family Tree‘