Ken

Most genealogists would start with an easy source: census records, birth certificates, marriage licenses, and the like. But what if you stall out there and cannot find the next piece of the puzzle? That’s where church and parish records come into play.

Anyone who has spent time investigating their family history has probably hit the dreaded “brick wall.” These annoying dead ends can arise when you are unable to locate that one critical piece of information required to proceed.

The stories behind the names and dates in genealogy define it more than just facts. It’s interesting to know when and where your ancestors lived, but knowing their presence means investigating their surroundings. One requires a historical background.

Probate records and wills are goldmines for genealogists. They show family relationships, ownership of property, and even what your ancestors’ personalities were beyond dates and names.