Californian Genealogy

One of the most fascinating aspects of US genealogy is the people and culture it introduces you to. California is a wonderful example of how many different cultures blend into one.

Whether you’re writing an autobiography, doing an assignment for school, looking for evidence for scholarships and benefits, or simply looking for answers, American genealogy is a pastime that is growing more popular each day.


Depending on the amount of effort you’re willing to put into your research, you may find yourself traveling far back in history. While finding the answers you’re looking for takes a considerable amount of time, effort, and even funds, you may discover that your work was more than worth it.

When it comes to studying California genealogy, you don’t have to be an expert. Simply start with what you have. Learn what you can from your family members. You would be surprised at how many leads you can find simply by looking through photo albums, letters, and newspaper clippings.


You can also interview your relatives to see just how far your family tree stretches. As you collect more information, it is crucial that you take clear, concise notes and cite each resource. You’ll be glad you did, especially if you are conducting this research in hopes of getting a grant or a scholarship.

Once you’ve learned all that you can, visit your local and state libraries. These are especially useful if your beginning steps into US genealogy left you with more questions than answers. Here you can find newspaper clippings, census charts, maps, photos, microfilmed documents, and historical texts.

The courthouse is another interesting stop for California genealogy research. Here you can find birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, immigration papers, deeds, wills, and other official documents. In addition to this, cemeteries can also be very useful for pinpointing the exact name, birth, and death of any specific ancestor.

Even California’s extensive history can be of use. One of the most intriguing aspects of American genealogy is getting to combine information you’ve gathered about your family lineage with hard historical facts. You may very well learn how such events as the California Gold Rush, the Donner Party Tragedy, or the San Francisco Earthquake affected your ancestors’ lives.

You can also learn about culturally important areas such the Old Missions, the Little Italy District, and California’s historic goldmines as well as several other places.

If you find yourself getting stuck, don’t think that you have to compile all of this information by yourself! The California Genealogical Society and Library has a variety of research databases, name lists, and even professional researchers who are more than willing to lend a hand.

Comments

  1. i have been researching the obriens for years .and uncovered maniny erestings things..most familys thrived in AMERICA..thank you

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