documentation – Page 7

Land records: an underused source in lineage research

Land records are often a “source of last resort” for genealogists. Rarely fully indexed, they require us locating and accessing a separate index book (called a grantor/grantee index); copying down the volumes and pages that apply to our ancestor; and then going into each volume to copy the appropriate pages. It’s time consuming and oftenContinueContinue reading “Land records: an underused source in lineage research”

Can I use mitochondrial DNA testing in a lineage society application?

First of all, what’s mitochondrial DNA testing? Mitochondrial DNA testing (mtDNA testing) compares the mitochondrial DNA of a tester with that of anyone taking the same test. As with other tests, the tests compare only certain regions of the DNA in order to estimate an approximate relationship. As of right now, only FamilyTree DNA offersContinueContinue reading “Can I use mitochondrial DNA testing in a lineage society application?”

What’s a “Silver Book”?

You’re working on an application to the General Society of Mayflower Descendants (“Mayflower Society”). Someone asks if you’ve checked the “Silver Books” yet. What do they mean? The “Silver Books” is a term used to describe a series of publications called “Mayflower Families through Five Generations.” Each publication – which has a silver cover -ContinueContinue reading “What’s a “Silver Book”?”

Can I use my Revolutionary War ancestor’s military headstone as “proof” of their service?

The white marble military headstone is a powerful symbol of service and sacrifice. However, it doesn’t date to the period of the American Revolution. The marble headstone came into being in 1873, as a way to mark the graves of the dead of the Civil War. As noted by the National Cemetery Administration, it wasContinueContinue reading “Can I use my Revolutionary War ancestor’s military headstone as “proof” of their service?”

My ancestor supposedly loaned money to the Continental government. How do I find evidence?

An ancestor who loaned money to the Continental government during the American Revolution would be considered to have “patriotic service” by the Sons of the American Revolution or the Daughters of the American Revolution. The Daughters of the American Revolution has begun digitizing records of the loans made from Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.ContinueContinue reading “My ancestor supposedly loaned money to the Continental government. How do I find evidence?”