Category: Adoption

How to Research Orphaned and Adopted Children in Your Genealogy

Legal adoption wasn’t common until the past century or so. Here are five historical scenarios you can use to research your orphaned and adopted ancestors.

Adoption Resources for Discovering Your Birth Family

Finding birth families is a goal for adoptees, foundlings and donor-conceived persons alike. These adoption genealogy tools, books and websites will show you how.

MyHeritage’s DNA Quest Reunites Family in New Zealand

Two half-siblings reconnected with each other and their long-lost birth father thanks to a pro bono DNA program.

One Man’s Successful Search for His Sperm-Donor Father Premium

Professional genealogist John Vanek’s successful search for his sperm-donor father—and the men’s thoughtful navigation through their new relationship—offer inspiration to birth family searchers.

5 First Steps to Researching Your Own Adoption

Beginning to find a birth family may feel overwhelming. Simplify researching your adoption by taking these 5 easy first steps.

DNA Q&A: How Are Adoptees Related to Their DNA Matches?

Learn how adoptees can determine relationships with their DNA matches based on centimorgans.

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Find Adoption Support Premium

You can find help, both practical and emotional, in searching for your "hidden roots" through an adoption support group. Some groups include just one segment of the adoption "triad": adoptee groups, birth parent support groups and adoptive parent groups. Others involve everyone affiliated with adoption. Some search agencies actually...