Courthouse

Holes in History: The 1890 Census Fire

Major, record-destroying fires have likely impacted your ancestry search. We’ll help you raise your family tree from the ashes of these disasters. In this section of our 4 part series, we're discussing the 1890 Census.

Holes in History: Courthouse Catastrophes

Major, record-destroying fires have likely impacted your ancestry search. We’ll help you raise your family tree from the ashes of these disasters. In this section of our 4 part series, we're discussing courthouse fires.

Holes in History: National Personnel Records Center Fire

Major, record-destroying fires have likely impacted your ancestry search. We’ll help you raise your family tree from the ashes of these disasters. In this section of our 4 part series, we're discussing the National Personnel Records Center Fire.

Holes in History: The Ellis Island Fire

Major, record-destroying fires have likely impacted your ancestry search. We’ll help you raise your family tree from the ashes of these disasters. In this section of our 4 part series, we're discussing the Ellis Island Fire.

Genealogy Research in “Burned Counties”

Courthouse fires and other record-destroying disasters can create big research brick walls. Use our five-step plan to rebuild your family tree from the archival ashes.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Ancestor’s Court Records

Every detail in your ancestor's court records can provide a lead to another genealogy resource. Our example shows you how this can work.

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A Guide to Genealogy Research in Courthouse Records

The county courthouse can be both a fortress of confusion and a gold mine of genealogy. Arm yourself with knowledge—and a plan of attack—to win your research battles.

Good Will Hunting

Follow these steps to find your ancestors' wills.

Court Orders

Put your ancestors on the stand with our supreme guide to courthouse records.

Probing Into Probate

Your ancestors bequeathed you a genealogical windfall in their wills and probate records. Follow these six steps to claim your inheritance.

Sample Record Request Letters

Use our templates to make requests for records.

Learning Legal Lingo

Here's a glossary of terms you'll frequently encounter in your ancestors' court records.