Category: Early American

Searching for Early Immigrants

Q. I always get discouraged when I read about immigration records, because my ancestors came over sometime before 1790. I’ve checked all the books at my library, and a few have my family’s last name, but none of the first names match my ancestor’s. Is there any other place to look? A. The government didn’t […]

Revolutionary War Timeline Premium

1773 Boston citizens protest the Tea Act by dumping tons of tea into Boston Harbor 1774 British Parliament passes the "Intolerable Acts" First Continental Congress meets in Philadelphia The Royal American magazine, the first periodical to regularly use engraved illustrations, begins publication with contributions from Paul Revere 1775 Patrick...

AncestorNews: Pioneer Certificates Premium

Did you know that several genealogy societies offer "pioneer certificates" to direct descendants of people whose family settled in a certain area before a specific date? Some societies even offer more than one type of certificate. For example, the Utah Genealogical Society offers a Founding Pioneer, Territorial Pioneer or...

Find a Pioneer Wagon Train Premium

You've got questions about discovering, preserving and celebrating your family history; our experts have the answers.

Researching Early American Witch Ancestors Premium

Was your ancestor part of the Salem Witch Trials? Learn more about your Massachusetts Bay relatives with these five resources, no black magic required.

Journey to Jamestown Premium

Find out if you have family ties to America's first permanent English settlement—just in time for its 400th anniversary.

Free 10 Essential Genealogy Research Forms

How to Find and Use Colonial Immigration Records Premium

Did your ancestors arrive before the 1820 advent of passenger lists? Don't assume they're untrackable—use these eight sources to find early immigrants' origins.

How to Research Your Colonial US Ancestors Premium

Colonial genealogy can be difficult, but it isn't impossible. Use these records to find ancestors who lived in the United States before the Revolutionary War.