Articles Index
Family History Research in Manuscript Collections
Manuscript collections, filled with these types of personal and family records, are available in the special collections of thousands of libraries, universities, museums, historical societies, and archives around the world. Learn how to locate and use these manuscript collections to answer questions about your own family history.
Ancestry.com - Search Tips & Techniques
Learn how to find buried ancestors in the databases of Ancestry.com with these Ancestry power search tips and tricks. Includes advanced search tips, wildcard search, census index search tips, and more.
Google Genealogy Style
Learn how to Google as you've never Googled before with these tips for using Google for all aspects of your genealogy search.
Research Guide to the 1920 US Census
Learn what questions were asked and how to find your ancestors in the 1920 census, in this free genealogy guide to the US Federal Census.
Research Guide to the 1930 US Census
Learn what questions were asked and how to find your ancestors in the 1930 census, in this free genealogy guide to the US Federal Census.
Digging Details from Pre-1850 U.S. Census Records
Most genealogists find their eyes glazing over when they encounter the columns and head counts of the pre-1850 census enumerations. When used together, however, these early U.S. census records can often provide important clues to early American families.
Top 10 Search Tips for Census Success
Sometimes finding an ancestor in the U.S. Census isn't as easy as it should be. Try these census search tips for help in locating those elusive ancestors.
Research Guide to the 1900 US Census
Learn what questions were asked and how to find your ancestors in the 1900 census, in this free genealogy guide to the US Federal Census.
Genealogy Guide to the US Census
Research your family tree in the US census with this guide to available historical US census records from 1790 through 1940. Learn what questions were asked in each decennial US census and where and how to access these records online.
R.C. Russell Soundex Index - Full Text Description from the Original Patent
russell index
Common Surnames of Ireland
Discover the meaning of your Irish last name, and find where in Ireland these Irish surnames are most commonly found.
Using Historical Maps to Pinpoint Big City Ancestors
Research in heavily populated areas such as cities practically requires you to localize your research using map and ward boundaries. Learn how and where to access these essential historical city maps (many online), and how to use them to pinpoint your ancestors.
Irish Genealogy 101
Irish genealogy isn't as hard as you may think. Learn how to trace your Irish heritage step by step with this genealogy guide to Ireland.
Researching German Ancestors
Trace your German roots back to the old country and beyond with the steps outlined in this German genealogy guide. Takes you step by step through the process, from gathering information on your family, to locating your ancestor's German hometown, to accessing vital records, passenger records and church records in Germany.
Historical Newspapers Online
Search indexed historical newspapers online or browse the actual digitized pages of hundreds of digitized historical newspapers online. This listing directs you to historical newspapers online for the United States, organized by state.
Researching Famous (or Infamous) Ancestors
Am I related to someone famous? A movie star, bank robber, queen, or hero of the Wild West? If you suspect a famous ancestor in your family tree, try these research steps and techniques to help you prove (or disprove) the famous connection
Blogging Your Family History Search
One interesting way to document your family history search and share it with others is to create a family history blog. Learn how to use blogs, short for web logs, as an easy way to get your family history and genealogy photos online.
City Directories for Genealogy
City directories can be used to not only place an ancestor in a particular time and place, but also to follow their occupations and residences, and even identify marriages and deaths. Learn how to use city directories to help build your family tree, as well as where you can access city directories online.
Probing into Probate Records
Probate records, including wills, administrations, and other estate records, are often a key to solving stubborn genealogical problems. Learn how to locate and use these detailed documents to uncover clues to your ancestors.
Which Genealogy Software Program is Best?
Tips for choosing a genealogy software program, including genealogy software reviews and ratings of the most popular family tree software options.
Romance Through the Ages
Stroll back through the romantic heritage of your ancestors with this timeline of love, marriage, and dating customs throughout history.
Map Adventures with Google
Plot your ancestors locations and travels on a map and experience a new way of looking at your family history. Google Maps and other free tools make this a fun, easy project for any genealogist.
Five Golden Rules for Growing Family Trees
Don't get so wrapped up in your genealogy hunt that you forget the basics. Make sure you're following these five golden rules for genealogy success!
Binders, Notebooks or Folders? - Organizing Your Genealogy Files
Take charge of your genealogy clutter with one of these easy-to-maintain filing systems. Includes how-to steps for binders, folders, and computer disk storage, as well as options for organizing by surname, family, or event.
How to Trace Your U.S. Military Ancestors
From the early colonists, to the men and women currently serving in America's armed forces, most of us can claim at least one relative or ancestor who has served our country in the military. Learn how to get copies of their military records with this step-by-step guide.