How to Find Your Family Tree
I have some tips for searching for ancestors who came to America during the 18th and 19th centuries.
- Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Charleston are probable landing sites. The map shows the Wilderness Trail from Delaware westward.
- Search the states of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Kentucky, and Virginia.
- Search county records.
During those years, families from Northern Ireland, the Highlands, the Palatinate, and Argyle came into the country. Although many of the desired records are unavailable in these regions due to wars, there is a good chance of locating the family emigrating to the American Colonies in county records. The collection of GeorgiaPioneers.com includes the States of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. That is a good start for any genealogist or historian! A good habit to acquire is to search for all surnames in the above wills and estate records in these States. You will be surprised to discover some unexpected relatives and events.
The early settlers fought in the Indian Wars of the 1750s, the Revolutionary War (1776–1781), and the War of 1812. Because of social restrictions in Europe, most families have a military history. Thus, it is essential to search the pension records. My latest books are available for purchase:
