Genealogical “brick walls”-points where research seems to stall-are common challenges for family historians. Here are proven strategies to help break through these obstacles:
1. Re-evaluate and Organize Existing Information
- Review all documents, notes, and sources you’ve already collected. Sometimes, overlooked details or inconsistencies can provide new leads.
- Organize your findings using charts, logs, and timelines to spot gaps or patterns.
2. Broaden and Diversify Your Search
- Search for your ancestor in all possible records: census, birth, marriage, death, land, court, and church records.
- Consider alternative spellings of names and look for transcription errors.
3. Use Cluster and Collateral Research
- Research siblings, cousins, neighbours, and associates (the “FAN club”: Friends, Associates, Neighbours). These individuals often appear in records with your ancestor and can provide indirect evidence or context.
4. Explore Local and Offline Resources
- Don’t rely solely on online databases. Many records are only available in local archives, courthouses, libraries, or historical societies.
- Visit or contact these repositories for unique documents such as land deeds, wills, and local histories.
5. Analyse and Correlate Evidence
- Compare information from multiple sources to resolve discrepancies and build a stronger case.
- Use the triangulation method: piece together clues from different documents to form a compelling argument about relationships or identities.
6. Leverage DNA Testing
- If paper records fail, consider genetic genealogy. DNA matches can help confirm relationships or point to new family lines, especially within 5-6 generations.
7. Collaborate and Seek Help
- Share your research with relatives-they may have information or documents you lack.
- Post queries on genealogy forums, social media groups, and message boards. A fresh set of eyes or someone with local knowledge may offer new insights.
8. Revisit and Repeat
- Sometimes, records become newly available or are indexed differently. Revisit searches periodically and try new search strategies.
- Analyse your research process and break down your “brick wall” problem into smaller, manageable questions.
9. Consult Specialized Resources
- Use books, guides, and research aids focused on specific challenges (e.g., maiden names, immigrant origins, ethnic groups).
- Look for compiled genealogies and local histories that might mention your family.
Summary Table: Key Strategies
| Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Re-evaluate Existing Information | Review and organize what you already have |
| Broaden Record Search | Check all types of records and consider name variations |
| Cluster/Collateral Research | Research relatives, neighbours, and associates |
| Use Local/Offline Resources | Visit archives, courthouses, and libraries |
| Analyse and Correlate Evidence | Compare sources and use triangulation |
| Leverage DNA Testing | Use genetic matches to find new leads |
| Collaborate and Seek Help | Share findings and ask for input from others |
| Revisit and Repeat | Return to searches as new records become available |
| Consult Specialized Resources | Use guides and local histories for advanced problems |
Applying these strategies systematically increases your chances of breaking through even the toughest genealogical brick walls.