Wildcard searches are one of the most powerful — and most underused — tools in genealogical research. They allow researchers to find records even when names are misspelled, abbreviated, or recorded inconsistently. What Are Wildcard Searches Wildcard searches use special characters to replace unknown or variable letters in a word. Using the Asterisk (*) The […]
When a birth record does not exist, identity must be confirmed using a combination of other records and evidence. By correlating multiple sources, researchers can establish identity with a high degree of confidence. Census and Age Patterns Family Relationships Location and Residence Occupation and Social Clues Associates and Witnesses Name Consistency and Variations Baptism and […]
Negative evidence refers to the absence of expected information in a record. While it may seem less useful than direct evidence, the lack of a record or entry can provide important clues when interpreted carefully. What Is Negative Evidence Negative evidence occurs when something expected is not found. When Negative Evidence Matters The absence of […]
Chancery and equity courts handled cases involving fairness rather than strict legal rules, including disputes over estates, guardianships, property, and trusts. These records often contain rich genealogical details and specialized legal terminology. Term Definition Bill of Complaint Formal written statement initiating an equity case. Chancellor Judge presiding over chancery court. Chancery Court Court handling equity […]
Background Historical Occupation Profiles explain what ancestors actually did for a living and how those occupations shaped the records genealogists rely on today. Occupation Overview Tailors made, altered, and repaired clothing for individuals and families. In the eighteenth, nineteenth, and early twentieth centuries, tailoring was a skilled trade practiced in small shops, homes, and later […]
Neighbors, associates, and nearby families often provide critical clues in genealogical research. Studying these individuals can help identify relationships, migration patterns, and missing information about your ancestors. Identifying the Community Tracking Migration Patterns Establishing Relationships Breaking Through Brick Walls Community and Social Clues
Genealogical records often contain both primary and secondary information. Understanding the difference between these types helps researchers evaluate accuracy and determine how much weight to give a particular piece of evidence. Primary Information Primary information is provided by someone with direct knowledge of an event at or near the time it occurred. Secondary Information Secondary […]
Sheriff’s sales and property auctions were legal processes used to satisfy debts, taxes, or court judgments. These records often appear in court proceedings and newspaper notices and contain terminology related to forced sales, creditors, and property transfer. Term Definition Appraisal Valuation of property prior to sale. Auction Public sale of property to highest bidder. Auctioneer […]
The Nickname Finder automatically generates nicknames for given names to help improve your genealogy searches. This tool is designed to help genealogists discover records that might otherwise remain hidden. I have seen as high as 50% additional results by using nicknames in newspaper search criteria. Nicknames are often used in other types of genealogy records. Simply enter […]
Not all estates went through the formal probate process. The absence of probate records does not necessarily mean that no property existed, but rather that circumstances did not require or allow formal administration. Lack of Significant Assets Joint Ownership and Transfers Family Agreements Legal and Administrative Factors Record Loss or Filing Elsewhere Special Circumstances