Hiring a professional genealogist can be a game-changer in uncovering your family history. They bring expertise, access to exclusive resources, and a systematic approach to tracing your lineage. This article discusses the benefits of hiring a professional genealogist, what they do, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
What Does a Professional Genealogist Do?
A professional genealogist specializes in researching and documenting family histories. They use a variety of sources such as census records, birth and death certificates, immigration documents, and historical archives to build a detailed family tree. Their work involves:
- Researching Records: Accessing and analyzing public and private records to gather accurate information.
- Validating Data: Ensuring the accuracy of the information through cross-referencing and validation techniques.
- Compiling Reports: Creating comprehensive reports and family trees that detail your ancestry.
- Solving Mysteries: Addressing specific family history questions or uncovering unknown relatives.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Genealogist
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Expertise and Experience
A professional genealogist has specialized training and experience in tracing family histories. They know where to look and how to interpret complex records, which can save you time and effort.
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Access to Exclusive Resources
Genealogists often have access to databases, archives, and records that are not readily available to the public. This can include membership-only databases and private collections.
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Efficiency
What might take you months or even years to uncover, a professional genealogist can often discover in a fraction of the time. Their expertise allows them to work efficiently and effectively.
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Accuracy
Genealogists are trained to verify the information they find, ensuring that your family history is as accurate as possible. This reduces the risk of errors that can occur in DIY research.
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Overcoming Brick Walls
If you have hit a dead end in your research, a professional genealogist can provide new insights and methods to overcome these obstacles.
How to Choose the Right Genealogist
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Check Credentials
Look for genealogists certified by recognized organizations, such as the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) or the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen). Certification indicates that they have met high standards of competence and ethics.
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Review Their Experience
Consider their experience and areas of specialization. Some genealogists may specialize in certain geographical regions, time periods, or types of records. Choose one whose expertise matches your research needs.
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Ask for References
Request references or testimonials from previous clients. This can give you an idea of their reliability, professionalism, and the quality of their work.
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Discuss Your Goals
Before hiring, discuss your research goals and what you hope to achieve. A good genealogist will listen to your needs and provide a clear action plan.
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Understand the Costs
Professional genealogical research can be expensive. Ensure you understand their fee structure, which can be hourly or project-based. Clarify any additional costs for accessing certain records or databases.
What to Expect During the Process
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Initial Consultation
The process usually starts with an initial consultation where you discuss your goals and any existing family information. The genealogist will outline a research plan and estimate the time and costs involved.
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Research Phase
The genealogist will conduct extensive research, often providing updates on their progress. They will access various records, validate information, and build your family tree.
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Final Report
Once the research is complete, the genealogist will compile their findings into a detailed report. This report will include copies of records, a family tree, and an analysis of the findings.
Conclusion
Hiring a professional genealogist can significantly enhance your understanding of your family history. Their expertise, access to exclusive resources, and efficient research methods make them invaluable for uncovering your roots. Following the tips above, you can choose the right genealogist to help you on this fascinating journey into your past.
