Explains the principles of genealogical research; identifies various classes of records that may be used in that research, and tells where to find them; and includes information about the use of computers in compiling family histories.

In every field of study there is one book that rises above the rest in stature and authority and becomes the standard work in the field. In genealogy that book is The Researcher's Guide to American Genealogy. It instructs the researcher in the timeless principles of genealogical research, while identifying the most current classes of records and research tools. It is both a textbook and an all-purpose reference book, designed to help the present generation of family history researchers better understand and utilize all available resources. This 4th edition provides a clear, comprehensive, and up-to-date account of American genealogy--no sound genealogical project is complete without it. This 4th edition has been completely updated, incorporating all the lastest developments, principles, and resources relevant to family history research. There are now two chapters about technology as it relates to family history research--one dealing with significant concepts and definitions and the other with specific resources and applications, including major family history websites and Internet resources. In addition, virtually every chapter provides information on Internet websites pertinent to the subject discussed in that chapter.

Also covers compiled sources, newspapers, vital records, census returns, abstracting wills and deeds, and immigration records.

Genealogists and other historical researchers have valued the first two editions of this work, often referred to as the genealogist's bible."" The new edition continues that tradition. Intended as a handbook and a guide to selecting, locating, and using appropriate primary and secondary resources, The Source also functions as an instructional tool for novice genealogists and a refresher course for experienced researchers. More than 30 experts in this field--genealogists, historians, librarians, and archivists--prepared the 20 signed chapters, which are well written, easy to read, and include many helpful hints for getting the most out of whatever information is acquired. Each chapter ends with an extensive bibliography and is further enriched by tables, black-and-white illustrations, and examples of documents. Eight appendixes include the expected contact information for groups and institutions that persons studying genealogy and history need to find. ""

"While most genealogy books focus on original records and primary sources, this title focuses on secondary sources that have proliferated because of the growth of genealogy. It identifies and explains the vast number of published genealogical sources, acting both as a guidebook and a bibliography to the printed material in the field. The introduction alone is a treasure trove of information, and should be called Genealogy Sources 101. Coverage includes encyclopedias, gazetteers, indexes, abstracts, histories, biographies, military sources, periodicals, and much more. Appendixes include CD-ROMs for family historians, major genealogical libraries in the Inited States, and a list of genealogical publishers and booksellers. This monumental source is highlyrecommended in all libraries for the beginner or expert ".--"Outstanding Reference Sources : the 1999 Selection of New Titles", American Libraries, May 1999. Comp. by the Reference Sources Committee, RUSA, ALA.

Portable and easy-to-read, the first volume of the African American Researcher's Guide to Online Genealogical Sources, can go with you anywhere. It can fit in your purse, in your desk or in your research bag. Or...just add it to your reference library. Well-crafted and concise, this volume is a must-read for any beginning African American Genealogist. A dynamic resource, it is indisputably the best book for African Americans looking to pursue online genealogical research. The African American Researcher's Guide to Online Genealogical Sources outlines essential steps and pinpoints available internet resources. Inside there are links to free and subscription databases, research projects, university studies, transcriptions, compendium genealogies, scanned images, online digital archives, state and local archives, instructional materials, podcasts, wikis, search portals, online directories, historical societies, message boards, mailing lists and hobby groups. If you want to search for your family’s genealogy, but don’t know where to start this is the book for you.

Tells how to locate and utilize census returns, wills, church records, and other documents used in tracing lineages.

Useful to the novice searcher, as well as the professional genealogist. Covers all aspects of research--major records, published sources, and special resources.