Research Services

Start with the question you want answered.

You do not need to know which records to search or what kind of research you need. Tell me what you are trying to learn. From there, we can define a focused research goal and determine the best approach.

Family History Research

Research designed to identify ancestors, document family relationships, and add context to the lives of the people in your family tree.

This may include:

  • Identifying parents, spouses, children, and extended family members
  • Locating census, vital, church, probate, land, military, immigration, and other historical records
  • Building or extending a documented family line
  • Reconciling conflicting names, dates, places, and relationships
  • Learning more about where an ancestor lived and the circumstances surrounding their life
The goal is not simply to collect records. The research is organized around a specific question so that each source helps us move toward an answer.
Ask About Family History Research

DNA & Unknown Parent Research

DNA results can reveal family connections that traditional records alone cannot. DNA evidence is most useful when it is combined with careful family-tree and documentary research.

This may include:

  • Analyzing autosomal DNA matches and shared matches
  • Grouping matches into family lines
  • Building research trees for DNA matches
  • Investigating unknown biological parents or grandparents
  • Using DNA evidence to support or challenge a suspected family relationship
  • Developing a plan for additional testing when it may help answer the research question
DNA research can involve living people and sensitive family information. Each project is handled carefully, with respect for privacy and the possibility of unexpected discoveries.
Tell Me About Your DNA Question

Historical Record Research

Sometimes you know who the person is but need help finding the records that tell the rest of the story.

This may include:

  • Locating records in online databases, archives, libraries, and record collections
  • Reviewing difficult-to-read historical documents
  • Comparing multiple records that appear to refer to the same person or family
  • Identifying clues within records that point to additional sources
  • Organizing evidence from several record types into a coherent explanation
Historical documents often answer one question while creating another. Part of the research process is recognizing those new clues and following them where the evidence leads.
Ask About Historical Records

Brick Wall Research

When you have searched the obvious records and the trail seems to stop, a fresh approach can sometimes reveal clues that were easy to overlook.

This may include:

  • Reviewing the research you have already completed
  • Re-evaluating assumptions about names, dates, locations, and relationships
  • Looking at relatives, associates, neighbors, witnesses, and other people connected to the family
  • Searching record groups that may not have been considered previously
  • Creating a research plan for questions that cannot yet be answered conclusively
Not every family-history question can be solved immediately. When the evidence does not support a firm conclusion, I will explain what was found, what remains uncertain, and what research may still be worth pursuing.
Tell Me About Your Brick Wall

Every project is different

Research begins with a conversation.

Before beginning a project, we will talk about your research question, what you already know, and what you hope to learn. That allows me to recommend an appropriate research goal and scope rather than asking you to choose a package before we understand the problem.

Start a Research Inquiry