Tax Records are Better than Early Census Records

Tax records have three distinct advantages compared with pre-1850 U.S. census records. Many tax records: Are produced annually; Predate the 1790 census; and Possess more than a list of names. Tax records are often sidelined in our genealogy research because censuses are more widely available and have been popularized because of their availability. Compared toContinue reading “Tax Records are Better than Early Census Records”

Scottish Migration within Colonial New Jersey: A Book Review

Even if you do not have Scottish ancestors who spent time in New Jersey, you’ll enjoy this book review. It will help you understand why and when your Scottish ancestors moved from town to town and with whom they did so. While researching my own Scottish ancestors, who lived in New Jersey and Pennsylvania inContinue reading “Scottish Migration within Colonial New Jersey: A Book Review”

Why Create a Location Guide for Genealogical Research?

For some reading this post, its title may seem rhetorical – a forgone conclusion. Of course, genealogists create location guides. But why don’t more of us do it? I consider myself a “good” genealogist. I’ve broken down many brick walls, but I’m also impatient and easily excitable. I’m perhaps too quick in following newly discoveredContinue reading “Why Create a Location Guide for Genealogical Research?”