Genealogy
The Internet’s ability to track and store an immense volume of content has made genealogy research more efficient and effective than ever. Online resources for tracing family history have never been so accessible or so comprehensive. Use the recommended links in this guide to discover, organize and share information about your family background.
Expand All Guide SectionsBeginning Family History Research
Not sure where to begin your research? This section of the guide helps you narrow your family ... read more »
Tracing Ancestors
Because the Internet has made genealogical research so easy and efficient, many online resources ... read more »
Building and Sharing a Family Tree
One way to track your genealogical research is to build a family tree. Sharing this information ... read more »
Learning About Cultural History
If discovering who your ancestors are has piqued your curiosity, use this section to delve more deeply into elements of your family history. These Web sites can provide fascinating insight into cultural history—find influential members of American history or DNA tests, for example.
Dulcinea's Insight
- These sites are most helpful for people who already know who their ancestors are. Specific names are required to make most of these resources worthwhile.
Dulcinea's Picks
For cultural history resources …
The Library of Congress
has a collection of resources on significant people, places and ideas in American history. If a family member you’ve researched made notable contributions to American history, you just might find information on him or her here. Categories include “African American History;” “Literature;” “Environment, Conservation;” “Women’s History” and many more.
The National Archives
preserves valuable historical records of the U.S. government, and provides a gateway to some of these records online. Find out what resources are available and learn where to find military service records, immigration records, land records and more.
Immigrant Ships Transcribers Guild
provides passenger lists of ships arriving in New York from 1827 to 1913. Be prepared to spend some time here, though; the site isn’t searchable so you’ll have to browse individual ship lists.
To trace your DNA …
The Genographic Project
operates in collaboration with National Geographic to trace human migratory patterns through the collection of DNA. Buy a kit for $99.95 to have your DNA analyzed; you’ll then be able to access information about the migration of your genes through time and location.
Family Tree DNA
can analyze your DNA to look for genetic links to unknown relations and ancestors. Send away for a kit (starting at $129) to find out if you have any distant relatives already in the database, as well as your ancestral ethnic origin.
Genetic Genealogy
is a service that helps you find out who your ancestors were based on genetic genealogy research. Using DNA testing, the service allows you to trace your ancestors and find out if you share an ancestor with other people who have the same surname. Kits start at $119.
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