Today's post is directed at new researchers into their family history. Many times new researchers are intimidated on how and where to start their research.
I am in no way affiliated with any product or website mentioned in this article other than as a user or paid subscriber.
Next, I would recommend a good genealogical program. There are many. Among those available are: RootsMagic, Family Tree Maker, Legacy, Ancestral Quest and The Master Genealogist.
I would highly recommend that you read about and develop a comprehensive filing system for your research. You may want to start with something simple such as a color-coded surname based system. Legacy's FamilyRoots Organizer System by Mary Hill is an excellent webinar on setting up a system.
Now it's time to get started with research. From my point of view nothing will ever replace on-site research in the archives and courthouses of America. However, much of the basic research has been computerized and I am a computer nerd.
CENSUS SCHEDULES
All of the census schedules from 1790 through 1930 have been computerized and can be access in many ways.
Most local libraries also provide access for their patrons. In North Carolina, a library patron, can access Heritage Quest Census image through this website - - NCLIVE. ORG. All that is needed is a library card.
Ancestry. com also provide access to all census images from 1780-1930. The 1880 Census is free; all others require a paid subscription.
FamilySearch, a free access website, also have census information available.
The following SC records can be accessed FREE on FamilySearch.org
South Carolina Deaths, 1915-1943
South Carolina Deaths, 1944-1955
South Carolina Probate Records, Bound Volumes, 1671-1977
South Carolina Probate Records, Files and Loose Papers, 1732-1964
South Carolina, Births and Christenings, 1846-1935
South Carolina, Civil War Confederate Service Records, 1861-1865
South Carolina, Marriages, 1890-1945
The following NC records can be accessed FREE on FamilySearch.org
North Carolina Births and Christenings, 1866-1964
North Carolina Civil Action Court Papers, 1712-1970
North Carolina Deaths and Burials, 1898-1994
North Carolina Deaths, 1906-1930
North Carolina Deaths, 1931-1994
North Carolina Marriages, 1759-1979
North Carolina Probate Records, 1735-1970
North Carolina, Birth Index, 1800-2000
North Carolina, Civil War Service Records of Confederate Soldiers, 1861-1865
North Carolina, Civil War Service Records of Union Soldiers, 1861-1865
North Carolina, Confederate Soldiers and Widows Pension Applications, 1885-1953
North Carolina, County Marriages, 1762-1979
North Carolina, County Records, 1833-1970
North Carolina, Davidson County Vital Records, 1867-1984
North Carolina, Estate Files, 1663-1964
North Carolina, State Supreme Court Case Files, 1800-1909
The 1940 Census can be accessed free at this website on 2 April 2012
OBITUARIES
Obituaries can be found in all local newspaper, available at most libraries.
Obituaries can also be accessed through local funeral homes. Most mortuaries in America have been placing obituaries on-line for the past 3-5 years. Many of these funeral homes archived their oldest obituaries. They can be accessed locally with a computer.
COUNTY HISTORIES
Check for county histories and Heritage books within your county. See the "Local Section" of you city or county library.
Cemetery Survey
Check for cemetery surveys at your local library or genealogical societies. If your ancestor is buried in the county and there is a tombstone on his grave; the cemetery survey may save you valuable time in locating other information about your ancestor.
Another key place for this information is online at – FINDAGRAVE. COM
FindAGrave is an on-line virtual Cemetery. Volunteers throughout the USA have entered vital statistics such as birth, death, parents & children from tombstones and other primary source documents on-line for easy access. If you don't find your ancestor listed on FindAGrave and you know where they are buried become a volunteer and enter the information for future family historians.
STATE ARCHIVES/DIGITAL COLLECTIONS:
The South Carolina State Archive database can be accessed FREE here:
The North Carolina Digital Collection can be accessed FREE here:
(include Census date, family records, Family Bibles)
CIVIL WAR DATABASE
Fold3 - Historical military records (all military service not just Civil war) Paid Subscription access
National Society Daughters of the American Revolution database to assist with DAR membership.
and finally for all new researchers I recommend these two genealogical message board sites:
Look at the State, County and Surname level on these boards.
Again look at the State, County and Surname level on these boards.
If you have any questions, post a comment below or send me an e-mail.
Your attention to detail is outstanding! Thank you Carolina for this most helpful article! evertalk
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