What makes a good genealogist
By Nancy Battick
Ever wonder what traits it takes to make a good genealogist? There are a few defining characteristics that occur in all the successful ones. Let’s see if this sounds like you.
A good genealogist is curious. They want to find out about their ancestors and they’re willing to put in the time and effort to locate them. Genealogy takes work and patience.
Genealogists share many of the characteristics of successful detectives. We love a good mystery, avidly watch or read detective stories, spot clues and try to identify “who done it.” Genealogists must spot clues about their ancestors and follow the trail of breadcrumbs. Not many of us don deerstalker caps and use magnifying glasses, except for fine print or handwriting on old documents, but otherwise we’re detectives.
Genealogists don’t jump to conclusions but slowly build their case, which is the records that will identify an ancestor. They’re suspicious of finding information that doesn’t add up. The classic example is the 7-year-old girl giving birth to an ancestor. That’s a major red flag, yet I’ve known genealogists who desperately want to be related to someone, so they try to convince themselves it’s just an error. It isn’t. The 7-year-old may have the same name as a female ancestor, but so far, at least, no 7-year-old has given birth.
Genealogists can accept when they’ve followed the wrong family. I’ve done this myself, and while it’s frustrating to see all that work disproved, it is part of genealogy that many of us have done and must accept. “Rats,” as Charlie Brown would say.
Genealogists have to weigh evidence. Which is the more reliable source, the online tree with no sources listed or the official vital record? What if the data on a tombstone doesn’t match the family Bible or the town record? Is an obituary reliable or is the doctor’s death certificate correct?
These situations often arise, requiring genealogists to make judgments. Spoiler: there are lots of errors in obits and on tombstones. Normally, the doctor’s death certificate is always reliable — though sadly, not always. Even official records can be wrong, and genealogists must maintain a level of skepticism.
Genealogists know that family stories are fun and sometimes wonderful, but they’re just stories passed down, often with errors and family secrets omitted. There are several reasons for this. People don’t always remember correctly, people assume that someone with the same surname is a relative, people don’t want to admit their ancestors weren’t saints, or any of a dozen other reasons, including that memories change over time.
Family stories can offer clues, but don’t be surprised to find they really can’t offer much in the way of fact.
Finally, genealogists know taking a DNA test can lead to revelations some in the family don’t want to know about. A genealogist doesn’t hide from the truth, however awkward it may be.
Does this sound like you? If so, don’t hesitate — jump in and enjoy the hunt for your ancestors. Good luck.
Columnist Nancy Battick of Dover-Foxcroft has researched genealogy for over 30 years. She is past president of the Maine Genealogical Society, author of several genealogical articles and co-transcribed the Vital Records of Dover-Foxcroft. Nancy holds an MA in History from UM. Reader emails are welcome at nbattick@roadrunner.com.