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(This page's most recent update is May 2026)
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Establishing family relationships is a central goal of genealogical research. A wide variety of records can provide direct or indirect evidence connecting individuals across generations.
Vital Records
- Birth certificates – Identify parents of child.
- Marriage records – Name spouses and sometimes parents.
- Death certificates – May list parents, spouse, or children.
- Baptism records – Often include parents’ names.
Probate and Estate Records
- Wills – Explicitly name heirs and relationships.
- Probate files – Identify family members and their roles.
- Estate distributions – Show division among heirs.
- Guardianship records – Link minors to parents or relatives.
Census and Household Records
- Census listings – Show family groupings within households.
- Relationship columns (later censuses) – Identify connections to head of household.
- Household structure across years – Suggest family relationships.
- Children appearing with parents – Evidence of parent-child link.
Land and Property Records
- Deeds transferring land between family members – Indicate relationships.
- Partition records – Divide property among heirs.
- Joint ownership documents – Suggest family connection.
- Witnesses on deeds – Often relatives.
Church and Religious Records
- Marriage registers – Identify bride, groom, and witnesses.
- Baptism sponsors or godparents – Often relatives.
- Burial records – Indicate family plots or connections.
- Membership records – Show family group participation.
Legal and Court Records
- Guardianship appointments – Link minors to parents or relatives.
- Adoption records – Establish legal family relationships.
- Court cases involving family disputes – Identify connections.
- Affidavits and depositions – Provide sworn statements of relationships.
Other Supporting Records
- Family Bible entries – Record births, marriages, and deaths.
- Obituaries – Summarize family relationships.
- Military pension files – Identify spouses, children, and dependents.
- Newspaper articles – Mention family connections and events.
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