Professional genealogy research goes beyond simply searching online databases.1 Every project begins with a thorough review of what is already known, followed by a systematic search of primary records — courthouse documents, vital records, census data, land records, military files, and more. When records conflict or gaps appear, careful analysis and correlation of evidence guide the research forward.
As a rule of thumb:
- All projects are a minimum of 20 hours.
- More complex projects, such as those involving DNA analysis, brick wall ancestors and lineage society applications, require longer research times.2
Genealogy Research Reports
A research report will be one of the following, delivered to you via email:
- Traditional genealogy and/or DNA research: a source-cited analytical report of the research findings and copies of source-cited key documents.
– OR –
- For lineage society projects: a source-cited lineage chart for each life event: birth, marriage, death, and child/parent connection and copies of source-cited key documents.
Research reports include copies of key documents discovered during the research — such as this example from an actual client project.
What to Expect from Your Research Project
Once your project begins, you will receive regular updates on research progress. All sources consulted are documented, whether or not they produce results — negative evidence is just as important as positive findings. At the conclusion of your project, your report will clearly explain what was found, how conclusions were reached, and recommendations for continuing the research.
Ready to start your research project? Contact Jill to discuss your goals or request a free consultation
- All research includes source analysis and interpretation of documents following the Genealogical Proof Standard as written and updated periodically by the Board for Certification of Genealogists.
- Mountain State Genealogy cannot guarantee the results of research. Likewise, due to varying society rules, Mountain State Genealogy cannot guarantee the acceptability of documentation to any lineage society.