Frequently Asked Questions

Start by completing the project inquiry form on the Hire page. I'll review your information and respond within 1-2 business days to schedule an initial consultation. The consultation package is 5 hours for $500, which includes a thorough review of your existing research and a detailed discussion of your genealogical goals.

Please gather any existing family research, documents, photos, family trees, or information you've already collected. This might include birth certificates, marriage records, death certificates, family Bibles, old letters, or previous genealogy work. Even incomplete information is helpful—I can work with whatever you have.

Yes! I work with clients across the United States and internationally. All consultations can be conducted via phone, video call, or email, and research findings are delivered digitally with detailed reports and documentation.

I specialize in applications for prestigious hereditary societies including:

• Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR)
• Sons of the American Revolution (SAR)
• General Society of Mayflower Descendants
• Jamestowne Society
• Colonial Dames of America
• Society of Colonial Wars
• First Families organizations
• And many other hereditary and lineage societies

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your lineage and the availability of records. A straightforward application with readily available documentation might take 2-3 months. More complex cases requiring extensive research can take 6-12 months or longer. During our initial consultation, I'll provide a realistic timeline estimate based on your specific situation.

I thoroughly verify all documentation against society standards before submission to minimize the risk of rejection. However, if additional evidence is requested or if corrections are needed, I'll work with you to address the society's concerns and resubmit. My goal is to ensure your application meets all requirements the first time.

While I cannot guarantee approval (as the final decision rests with the society), I only submit applications when I'm confident the documentation meets their standards. If during research I determine the lineage cannot be adequately proven, I'll inform you honestly rather than submit an application likely to be rejected.

The Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) is the benchmark for quality genealogical research. It requires: (1) reasonably exhaustive research, (2) complete and accurate source citations, (3) thorough analysis and correlation of evidence, (4) resolution of conflicting evidence, and (5) a soundly written conclusion. All my research adheres to GPS to ensure the highest quality results.

I use a combination of online databases, digital archives, courthouse records, library resources, historical societies, and on-site repository visits when necessary. Research is conducted systematically, documenting each source and analyzing all evidence carefully. You'll receive detailed reports showing exactly what was found, where it was found, and how it supports your family history.

Sometimes records have been lost, destroyed, or never existed. When direct evidence isn't available, I use indirect and circumstantial evidence to build a case. This might include land records, tax lists, church records, or other sources that can help establish relationships and timelines. I'll always be transparent about the strength of the evidence and any gaps in the documentation.

Yes, when necessary. Many valuable records remain in local courthouses, archives, and historical societies that haven't been digitized. On-site research can uncover documents unavailable anywhere else. Travel research costs are discussed separately and include research time, travel expenses, and comprehensive documentation with photographs.

My hourly rate is $100.00 per hour. All projects begin with an initial consultation package of 5 hours for $500, which includes a comprehensive review of your existing research and a detailed discussion of your goals. After the consultation, I provide a customized proposal for additional research services based on what needs to be accomplished.

Research is billed in manageable segments with detailed time logs. You'll receive regular updates on hours spent and findings discovered. This transparent approach ensures you always know where your investment is going and allows us to adjust the research plan as needed.

Additional costs may include document fees (copies of certificates, courthouse records, etc.), database subscription access, travel expenses for on-site research, and shipping costs for physical documents. These expenses are always discussed in advance and billed separately with receipts provided.

DNA testing can be incredibly valuable, especially for breaking through brick walls, confirming relationships, or exploring unknown ancestry. I can help interpret your DNA results from major testing companies (Ancestry, 23andMe, FamilyTreeDNA, MyHeritage) and integrate genetic evidence with traditional documentary research.

Most lineage societies still require traditional documentary evidence (vital records, probate, land records, etc.) for applications. DNA can be supportive evidence but typically cannot replace required documentation. However, DNA is increasingly being accepted for certain types of proof, particularly in cases where traditional records are unavailable.

You'll receive comprehensive reports including: detailed research findings, copies of all documents discovered, complete source citations, analysis of the evidence, a documented lineage showing your ancestry, and recommendations for future research. For lineage society applications, you'll receive the complete compiled application package ready for submission.

Genealogical research sometimes yields unexpected results or reveals that certain family stories cannot be documented. I'm committed to finding the truth, whatever that may be. Even when we don't find the hoped-for connection, the research provides valuable information about your actual ancestry and corrects the family record for future generations.

Yes! Many families have stories about famous ancestors, royal connections, or dramatic events. I can research these claims systematically to determine what can be documented and what remains family lore. Sometimes these stories have a kernel of truth that's been embellished over generations—research can separate fact from fiction.