Research standards

How the work is done.

A good family history is built by comparing evidence, not by copying the first answer found online. This project uses the following practical standards.

Start with what the family knows

Memories, letters, photographs, Bibles, and handwritten notes are valuable. They preserve context that formal records may never capture. They are recorded carefully and then compared with documentary evidence where possible.

Prefer original or near-original records

Vital records, censuses, probate files, land records, military records, newspapers, cemetery records, and library collections are stronger than unsourced online trees. Indexes and transcriptions are helpful finding tools, but they may contain errors.

Keep sources with conclusions

A name, date, or relationship should be connected to the source that supports it. When sources conflict, the conflict should be recorded rather than hidden.

Protect living people

Living people’s information is handled privately. The public site does not publish the tree, personal dates, places, notes, or source material for living family members.

Leave room for correction

Research improves when people are willing to revisit an old conclusion. The private tree is maintained as a working record, with better evidence replacing weaker assumptions.