Part 1: Background to research. 1. Understanding genealogical research ; 2. Language, terminology and important issues ; 3. Surveying, analyzing, and planning ; 4. Evidence ; 5. Libraries and the National Archives (NARA) ; 6. Reference works ; 7. Organizing and evaluating your research findings ; 8. Successful correspondence ; 9. Computer technology and family history ; 10. Family history on the Internet ; 11. Family history: going beyond genealogy -- Part 2: Records and their use. 12. Compiled sources and newspapers ; 13. Vital records ; 14. Census returns ; 15. Using census records in your research ; 16. Understanding probate records and legal terminology ; 17. What about wills? ; 18. The intestate, miscellaneous probate records, and guardianships ; 19. Government land: colonial and American ; 20. Local land records ; 21. Abstracting probate and land records ; 22. Court records and family history ; 23. Property rights of women as a consideration ; 24. Church records and family history ; 25. Immigrant ancestor origins: American finding aids ; 26. Military records: colonial wars and the American Revolution ; 27. Military records: after the Revolution ; 28. Cemetery and burial records. -- Index.
Summary:
This 4th edition provides a clear, comprehensive, and up-to-date account of American genealogy and instructs the researcher in the timeless principles of genealogical research, while identifying the most current classes of records and research tools. There are now two chapters about technology as it relates to family history research--one dealing with significant concepts and definitions and the other with specific resources and applications, including major family history websites and Internet resources. It is both a textbook and an all-purpose reference book, designed to help the present generation of family history researchers better understand and utilize all available resources.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.