Family History Research
Trace Your Ancestors with Professional Research
The question of ‘where do I come from’ is an age old one. With professional family history research, you can get a search for your ancestors that you can believe in! You may have something in particular you would like to find out or want a second opinion on existing research – that’s where I step in. I provide meticulous research for everything from simple document “lookups” to detailed research projects. For physical records, I specialise in Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, and Essex but the growing availability of digital work can often allow me to deliver records across England and Wales.
Looking to start family history research but not sure where to begin?
Here are the Benefits of Consulting A Professional Genealogist!
Archive Access
Are you looking for a family history researcher in Cambridgeshire, Suffolk or Essex? Perhaps you have extended you family back through online records and now need someone to look at documents in archives that are too far away from home, or you are a professional genealogist looking for someone to conduct genealogy research outside your area. I can help!
Results You Can Trust
Commissioning a qualified genealogist isn’t just about ease – it gives you confidence in the results too! Your research will be reported in meticulous detail, including full citations, search parameters used, where searches were unsuccessful as well as successful, an analysis of the findings, written conclusions and suggestions for further work where appropriate.
Break Down “Brick Walls”
When you have been researching your own family history for some time, hitting a research hurdle isn’t unusual. I do not promise I can break down every brick wall but, with my experience and qualifications, I am usually able to find new ways of looking at a problem, searching different documents, trying new strategies, applying research tools and even suggesting new ideas on where you could look next!
Record Compilation
You may be lucky enough to have a relative who has already looked at your family tree. However, all too often, the family history research we are handed is not in any kind of logical order. Family historians are, after all, far more interested in conducting research than writing it up with future generations in mind! I can work through and add to your research, providing you with a clear and user friendly report.
Picking Up the Trail on Your Family History
Researching your own family history can sometimes take you on unexpected journeys. Unexpected ancestors, conflicting records, and untold stories. My services are specially built to provide support - no matter where you are on that journey. Genealogical sources were never built for the ease of tracing family so I am here to help make sense of it all. I combine my experience and formal training to help you to identify solutions and bridge any gaps within your record. That can mean organising and picking up the trail of any existing research or even getting it all kickstarted.
I offer a free evaluation of up to one hour to assess the project or review any work already conducted. Depending on the details, it is usually appropriate to commission a set number of hours work after which I will report back to you and we can then agree the next steps.
Family Tree Gift Packages
A family tree is a unique gift to mark a special anniversary or birthday. A number of options are suggested here, to cater for a variety of research requirements and budgets, but I can also do something different, just for you.
All Family Tree Packages
All family tree packages include an attractive, illustrated summary of the research conducted, a detailed research report, copies and transcriptions of the key historical documents found, and a copy of your family tree, all beautifully bound. You can also include family photographs or images of places of family importance, for a more personalised product.
Starter Family Tree
This package was created as an introduction to the world of family history and is perfect for those on a budget who want a quality product. Research is focussed on a single couple, usually one set of the client's grandparents, but can provide information on up to four generations of the family if the client and their parents are also added to the family tree.
Traditional Family Tree
This package focuses on one surname and is my most popular offering. Here your family line is researched backwards up to four generations from the client, looking at one surname only, but including the names of siblings at each generation. Research typically takes the family tree back to late 1700s / early 1800s, and reports tend to be around 70-90 pages.
Direct Ancestors Tree
The direct ancestors package looks at the family in a different way to the other packages. Instead of looking at whole family groups, including siblings, only the client’s direct ancestors are researched. The resultant family tree will include parents, all four grandparents, and up to eight great-grandparents. Reports are typically around 90-120 pages.
Look Forwards to Your Family’s Past!
I will research your family tree backwards in time, using professional search techniques to make sense of often confusing records and documents that will unlock your family’s past. The family tree packages listed are suggestions only and can be modified. If you would like something a little different, just let me know. Do note that successful research depends on a number of factors, such as record survival and availability. Please also refer to my
Terms of Service for more information.
Consult a Professional Family Historian
As an experienced family historian and qualified scientist, I hold a unique perspective on family history research. I combine the knowhow and logic of the science world with the passion and experience of a traditional genealogist. With friendly and professional support, discovering your ancestors will truly be a pain-free and fun process.
