These genealogy case studies represent my own family research — real cases, real evidence, real conclusions.
Each report represents a complete research project conducted to professional genealogical standards — documenting sources, analyzing evidence, and presenting conclusions that meet the Genealogical Proof Standard. These are not summaries; they are full research reports that demonstrate the methodology I bring to every client project.
Traditional Genealogy Research Reports
Elenor “Elen” Carter Research Project
This advanced genealogical report investigates the origins of Elenor “Elen” (Carter) Centers, born circa 1823 in Ohio, through a multi-source evidence framework. With vital records unavailable, the project utilized marriage statutes, courthouse deeds, probate laws, cemetery inscriptions, obituaries, and census reconstruction to piece together her family identity. By applying the FAN club methodology and analyzing migration patterns between Ohio and Missouri, the research demonstrated that James Carter and Polly Waugh were her likely parents. The report highlights the integration of legal analysis, cluster research, and layered indirect evidence to resolve genealogical questions in the absence of birth and death records
Finding a Father for Harrison Johnson: Indirect Evidence Supports an Authored Source
This advanced genealogical report demonstrates the use of indirect evidence and traditional methodologies to resolve the question of Harrison Johnson’s parentage. The project correlated census reconstruction, marriage bonds, migration analysis, and FAN club strategies to evaluate multiple parental candidates. Despite the loss of Hickman County courthouse records, the analysis integrated census age brackets, interrelated family migrations, and a rare 1899 family letter to establish Uriah Johnson and Jane Carrell as the most probable parents. The report showcases sophisticated use of cluster research, evidence correlation, and critical evaluation of authored sources to overcome the absence of direct documentation.
DNA Genealogy Case Studies
Using DNA to Find Harrison Johnson’s Biological Father
This advanced DNA genealogy report demonstrates the integration of traditional genealogical research with sophisticated genetic analysis to prove paternity. The project used autosomal DNA from 25 test-takers across multiple family lines, network analysis, and statistical correlation to confirm that Uriah Johnson was Harrison Johnson’s biological father. The report showcases complex methodologies including pedigree triangulation, chromosome segment analysis, and Gephi network visualization to overcome the challenge of limited historical records destroyed in an 1865 courthouse fire.
These case studies reflect the depth and rigor I bring to every research project — whether tracing elusive ancestors through indirect evidence, reconstructing courthouse records lost to fire, or integrating DNA results with documentary research to reach well-reasoned, defensible conclusions.
For more on genetic genealogy methodology, visit the ISOGG Wiki.