Early American Genealogy

Tracing your family history back to when the country was young and its history volatile is exciting—perhaps until you realize that records were also sparser, which means limited information about your Early American ancestors. Fortunately, there are strategies to help you continue down this narrow, rugged genealogical trail. Here are some resources to get you started.

8 Tips for Finding Ancestors Prior to 1850

Genealogy Brick Wall Busters Free eBook

Limited records, uncertain geography, ancestors constantly on the move—these are all factors that can lead you head-first into a brick wall as you research family who lived prior to 1850. Here's a free eBook to help you overcome these obstacles as you delve deep into our nation's younger days.

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How to Research Mayflower Ancestors

This article provides tips and strategies for researching your Mayflower ancestors.

Colonial Genealogy Resources

Expert Q&A: Tracing Your Colonial and Early American Ancestors

How to Find and Use 8 Colonial Immigration Records

Indentured Servants: Was Your Ancestor One?

For some, indentured servitude was a means to pursue the promise of better opportunities in Colonial America. Here’s a guide to help you determine if your ancestor was an indentured servant.

1790 Census Worksheet

1800-1810 Census Worksheet

1820 Census Worksheet

1830 Census Worksheet

1840 Census Worksheet

1850 Census Worksheet (includes slave schedule)

Secrets to Find Ancestors in Early US Census Records

Researching census records before 1850 can be confusing, as these records provide very little information on individuals other than the head of household. Here’s a guide to help you navigate these records more easily.