Tracing one’s ancestry is a fascinating and rewarding experience. Learning about the people who came before you, their stories, struggles, and triumphs, can provide a deep sense of connection to your past and help you understand your place in the world. However, genealogy research can also be challenging, time-consuming, and overwhelming, especially if you don’t have the necessary expertise or access to resources. That’s where genealogy specialists come in. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of hiring genealogy specialists for your family history and how they can help you uncover your roots.
What are Genealogy Specialists?
Genealogy specialists, also known as genealogists or family historians, are professionals who specialize in tracing family ancestry and creating family trees. They use a variety of resources, such as historical records, DNA testing, and other genealogy tools to identify family members, their relationships, and their history. Genealogy specialists can work independently, for genealogy companies, or as consultants for individuals, organizations, or legal cases.
Why Hire Genealogy Specialists for Your Family History?
There are many reasons why you may want to hire a genealogy specialist for your family history research. Here are some of the main benefits:
- Expertise
Genealogy specialists have the knowledge, skills, and experience to conduct thorough research and analysis of your family history. They are familiar with the different types of records, how to access them, and how to interpret the information they contain. They can also identify gaps in the information and use various methods to fill them in. Genealogy specialists can save you time, money, and frustration by providing accurate and reliable research results.
- Access to Resources
Genealogy specialists have access to a wide range of resources that are not available to the general public. They can use online databases, archives, libraries, and other repositories to find relevant documents and records. They can also access specialized resources, such as foreign language records or DNA testing, that can provide unique insights into your family history. Genealogy specialists know where to look and how to find the information you need.
- Objectivity
Genealogy research can be emotional, especially when you are researching your own family history. It’s easy to get caught up in the stories and legends that have been passed down through generations, and it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. Genealogy specialists can provide an objective and unbiased perspective on your family history. They can help you verify information, correct errors, and uncover hidden truths without getting emotionally involved.
- Collaboration
Genealogy specialists can work with you to create a customized research plan that meets your specific goals and needs. They can provide guidance on the research process, suggest additional resources, and answer your questions along the way. Genealogy specialists can also collaborate with other professionals, such as lawyers, estate planners, or forensic specialists, to help you solve complex genealogy problems.
- Preservation
Genealogy specialists can help you preserve your family history for future generations. They can create detailed family trees, record oral histories, and organize documents and photographs into a cohesive family history archive. Genealogy specialists can also advise you on the best ways to store and protect your family history materials, so they will be accessible and well-preserved for many years to come.
What Services Do Genealogy Specialists Offer?
Genealogy specialists offer a wide range of services, depending on your needs and goals. Here are some of the main services genealogy specialists offer:
- Genealogy Research
Genealogy specialists can conduct comprehensive genealogy research on your behalf. They can trace your family ancestry back several generations, using a variety of records and resources. Genealogy specialists can also provide customized research reports, which include detailed information about your family histories, such as birth, marriage, and death records, census records, immigration records, military records, and more.
- DNA Testing
Genealogy specialists can also help you with DNA testing. DNA testing can provide valuable information about your family ancestry and ethnicity, and can help you connect with relatives you may not have known existed. Genealogy specialists can help you choose the right DNA testing kit, interpret the results, and use the information to further your family history research.
- Record Retrieval
Genealogy specialists can retrieve records and documents on your behalf. They can access records from local and state archives, libraries, and other repositories, and can provide certified copies of birth, marriage, and death certificates, wills, deeds, and other legal documents.
- Lineage Society Applications
Genealogy specialists can help you prepare and submit applications for lineage societies, such as the Daughters of the American Revolution or the Mayflower Society. These societies require proof of descent from a particular ancestor, and genealogy specialists can help you gather the necessary documentation and prepare a successful application.
- Family History Preservation
Genealogy specialists can help you preserve your family history for future generations. They can create detailed family trees, record oral histories, and organize documents and photographs into a cohesive family history archive. Genealogy specialists can also advise you on the best ways to store and protect your family history materials, so they will be accessible and well-preserved for many years to come.
How to Find a Genealogy Specialist
If you’re interested in hiring a genealogy specialist for your family history research, there are several ways to find one. Here are some tips:
- Ask for Referrals
Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they have worked with a genealogy specialist before and if they can recommend someone. You can also ask for referrals from local genealogy societies or online genealogy forums.
- Research Online
Search online for genealogy specialists in your area or who specialize in your particular research needs. Look for reviews, ratings, and testimonials from previous clients to get an idea of their expertise and professionalism.
- Contact Genealogy Companies
Contact genealogy companies, such as Ancestry.com or MyHeritage, and ask if they have in-house genealogy specialists or if they can recommend someone.
- Check Credentials
Make sure the genealogy specialist you’re considering has the appropriate credentials and experience. Look for certifications, such as those offered by the Board for Certification of Genealogists, or membership in professional organizations, such as the Association of Professional Genealogists.
Conclusion
A genealogy specialist can bring numerous advantages to your family history research. They save you time and money, provide dependable results, and possess access to numerous resources. Furthermore, they offer an impartial viewpoint and can create a tailored research plan, preserve family history documents, and facilitate connections with unknown relatives. Their expertise and experience can assist you in discovering your ancestry and creating a meaningful connection to your past.