Exploring Your Family History: Accessing Government Records and Professional Genealogists
Understanding the Role of Government Records in Genealogy
When exploring your family history, the first place to look is often government records. The United States Census Bureau is a valuable resource with detailed records that can provide clues about your ancestors. However, these records can only take you so far, as they often do not include the entire family tree. The best place to supplement this information is through various genealogical clubs in your area. Almost every large city in the country has at least one or two of these clubs willing to assist you in your research.
Another surprising source for genealogical records is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon Church). The church compiles a vast amount of family history information for both genealogical and religious purposes, including the baptism of deceased relatives. It's important to note that their efforts are not driven by altruism but are rather motivated by religious practice.
Government Records vs. Personal Research
While government records and church databases are reliable sources, they often give you only a snapshot of your family history. Many governments do not maintain comprehensive family trees for the general population outside of specific cases, such as royal families who require an official order of succession list. Therefore, you will often have to undertake your own research to piece together the full story of your family's past.
When conducting your own research, you may find others who have already done significant work and made their findings publicly available. This can save you a significant amount of time. However, the quality of this research is not guaranteed, so it's important to cross-reference your findings with original sources.
Professional Genealogists: Turning the Pages
For those seeking a more in-depth and professional approach to genealogical research, hiring a professional genealogist can be highly beneficial. These experts follow standard genealogical practices and know that the research process often begins with the living and their knowledge.
It's important to note that the role of professional genealogists extends beyond merely finding records. They understand that the key to successful research is situational knowledge, and that gaining this knowledge often involves meeting with living relatives. There is a famous saying in genealogical circles: "When an old person dies, a library of knowledge is burned to the ground, forever lost to mankind."
Professional genealogists also organize the information they gather and prioritize the next steps in the research process. They often use online tools and databases, including the vast resources of Google, to find the records they need. They also have the skills to navigate through different types of records, which can make the research process more efficient and effective.
While some individuals or services charge per record, professional genealogists typically follow a more structured and comprehensive approach. They draft a family tree, often in a word format, and may involve additional steps such as printing on stamp paper and consulting a notary public, ensuring that their work is legally and professionally documented.
To summarize, whether you're using government records, genealogical clubs, or professional genealogists, the pursuit of family history is a comprehensive and often rewarding endeavor. Each method has its strengths and limitations, and the combination of these approaches can provide the most complete picture of your family's past.
Conclusion
Accessing government records and the assistance of professional genealogists can be crucial steps in uncovering your family history. These resources offer a wealth of information, but they are often just the starting point. By leveraging both public and private resources, you can piece together a detailed and accurate account of your family's heritage. Whether you're a history buff, a genealogy enthusiast, or simply curious about your roots, the journey of discovery can be both thrilling and enlightening.