Guide
Overview
This genealogy search hub provides direct links to the most important free databases for family history research, including census records, vital statistics, immigration documents, and military service files.
Guide
Government Archives
- National Archives Genealogy Federal records: census, military, immigration, passport, naturalization.
- USCIS Genealogy Program Historical immigration & naturalization files (A-Files, C-Files) post-1906.
Guide
How to Research Genealogy Records
Public records are the backbone of genealogy research. From vital records to census data to immigration files, this guide shows you how to find your family's history.
Start with What You Know
Document what you already know: names, dates, locations of birth/marriage/death for yourself and known relatives. This becomes your research foundation.
Search Vital Records
Birth, death, and marriage certificates are the most reliable records. Contact state vital records offices or use genealogy databases like FamilySearch (free) or Ancestry.
Search Federal Census Records
U.S. Census records from 1790, 1940 are fully searchable at Ancestry, FamilySearch, and through the National Archives (NARA). The 1950 Census is now fully public.
Check Immigration & Naturalization Records
Passenger lists, naturalization papers, and ship manifests are searchable through NARA and Ancestry. Ellis Island records are free at libertyellisfoundation.org.
Search County & State Records
Land deeds, probate records, and local court records often contain family details. County recorders and state archives hold these records.
What Records Are Available
- Census Records1790, 1950 population schedules, household members, ages
- Immigration RecordsPassenger lists, naturalization papers, passports
- Land & PropertyDeeds, surveys, homestead claims
- Military RecordsDraft cards, service records, pension files, bounty land
Guide
Genealogy by State
Trace family history through state vital records, census, and archive collections.
Straight answers
Genealogy Search Tools, questions
What is the best free genealogy resource?
FamilySearch.org is the largest free genealogy database, run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It includes billions of records worldwide. The National Archives (archives.gov) also offers extensive free records.
How far back can genealogy records go?
U.S. records begin with colonial-era church and county records from the 1600s, 1700s. Federal census records start in 1790. Vital records registration became standardized in most states by the 1920s.
Can I find living relatives through public records?
Public records can help find living relatives through voter registrations, property records, and court filings. However, privacy laws restrict direct access to some records for living individuals.
What is a genealogy abstract vs. a certified copy?
An abstract is a summary extracted from a record. A certified copy is an official reproduction bearing the issuing agency's seal, required for legal purposes like passport applications or inheritance claims.