Beyond the usual problems encountered in genealogy-lost records, inaccurate indexes and transcriptions, and variant spellings (to name a few)-Irish-American research presents a unique set of obstacles. So much of Irish genealogical investigation depends on knowing the exact location of where your ancestor came from in Ireland. The prevalence of common surnames, the lack of a nationwide search capability, and faulty family tradition can make it difficult to discern your ancestor's true origins and will give anyone a genealogical headache.

No matter how monumental the task of organizing your research may seem, a systematic method saves valuable time and creates more accurate work. This Portable Genealogist offers practical advice on how to organize your research and files, keep track of families, and create goals to guide future research. Even if you are a seasoned family historian, it's not too late to incorporate these practices into your work!

The four-page laminated guide can fit easily in your research binder.

By Rhonda R. McClure

New York is a crossroads for many of our ancestors. Some families may have been in New York State for less than a generation on their way farther west, whereas other families became permanent settlers. New York's sources for genealogical inquiry, however, are often lacking-statewide registration of vital records did not start until 1881!

Massachusetts researchers are fortunate to have so many early resources for genealogical and historical research. One source that is often overlooked, however, is the 1855 and 1865 Massachusetts state census. The state census contains valuable genealogical information beyond what is available in the federal census and provides important insight into Civil War-era Massachusetts. This Portable Genealogist will assist you in understanding, locating, and using this key record.

The four-page laminated guide can fit easily in your research binder.

Since the 1600s, people have immigrated to America to escape religious or social persecution, claim a better life, or seek adventure. No matter the reason or time period, finding your immigrant ancestor can be a difficult task. This Portable Genealogist will help you better understand the major waves of immigration to the U.S. between 1607 and 1924 and discuss what records exist, where to find them, and how to learn more about your ancestor's entry into America.

The four-page laminated guide can fit easily in your research binder.

Genealogical writing uses a variety of numbering systems to help organize material and make your research findings accessible to the reader. Whether you are numbering sketches based on descendancy or ancestry, adding generational numbers, or simply numbering a list of children, you should adhere to common standards and styles. This Portable Genealogist will help you navigate and implement these basic numbering systems in your writing.

The four-page laminated guide can fit easily in your research binder.

By Penny Stratton

When presenting your genealogical information, it’s important to be consistent in how you present your research, refer to certain places and people, and implement your overall style. This Portable Genealogist will help guide your writing and aid in decisions relating to capitalization, spelling, abbreviations, punctuation, and the like. Key elements for Register and ahnentafel style are summarized, and a list of common abbreviations is provided.

This four-page laminated guide can fit easily in your research binder. 

This Portable Genealogist will show you how to compile a bibliography when writing your family history. Numerous examples will cover books, articles, manuscripts, vital records, online sources, and more!

The four-page laminated guide can fit easily in your research binder.

By Kyle Hurst

If you're ready to turn your family history research into a publication, this Portable Genealogist will help you assemble the basic elements of a genealogical "sketch" and go over the elements of the descendancy (Register style) and ancestor table (ahnentafel) formats.

The four-page laminated guide can fit easily in your research binder.

By Penny Stratton

A lineage or hereditary society is a member-based group that is organized around a common ancestor or ancestors of historical importance. For example, the General Society of Mayflower Descendants is comprised of members who can trace their lineage to one of the original passengers from the Mayflower. These societies aim to preserve the memory of their common ancestry, participate in historic conservation and education, and may provide original scholarship or a specialized facility to aid family historians.