• By Karen Feeney
  • Posted Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Database of the Month: Genealogy Research

Genealogy research is a fun way to learn and explore your own history and FCPL is here to help. Our databases allow you to search nationwide for popular records used in genealogy: Federal census, birth, marriage, and death records, military, and naturalization documents.

These resources are easy to use and can be accessed at any branch or online from your home computer with your library card. The exception is Ancestry Library Edition, which can be only be accessed from a Library computer.

The Federal census records are a great place to begin researching ancestors. With HeritageQuest you can search the complete set of Federal census records. In addition, the PERSI Archive holds information about people and places in local history and genealogy. Revolutionary War search has selected records from the Revolutionary War era. You can also search for African-American ancestors in Freedman’s Bank (1865-1874) records. The database also has an extensive section of videos related to genealogy and records research in the learning center.

Finding historical records for African American ancestors can become challenging as research extends into the pre-Civil War era. The African American Heritage database offers records and publication searches, an online genealogy community, and a genealogy guide. This resource offers help finding information on ancestors who may have been slaves or freed persons of color. It also includes, AfriGeneas, a social networking site that connects people to a community of researchers experienced in African American genealogy and history.

A wide range of records are available for free with our Ancestry Library Edition. Ancestry Library Edition is accessible only from a Library computer and contains the same information in Ancestry.com. Search Federal census, vital records (birth, marriage, and death), military, immigration, and voter lists. Participate in Community Message Boards and connect with others researching family histories. Organize your genealogy research by creating family group sheets and pedigree charts.

For history buffs and genealogists alike, history comes alive with Fold3 History and Genealogy Archives. You have access to Civil War records, Milestone Documents (for example, the Constitution or Gettysburg Address), Vietnam War records, and World War I records. Dig through Naturalization Records and Index and City Directories. Documents can be viewed, saved, or printed.

Look through all of our Genealogy and History databases on our Online Resources page.

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