Using AmericanAncestors.org

 Start with a broad search by searching all databases

Click “Search” in the upper left corner and then click “Go to Search”

• Search first and last name, then review your search results
• Next search first name, last name, and add a location
• Gradually add more information to the search fields to narrow your search results
• Avoid filling in every search field as this will limit your results 
   

Use the Soundex tool to search for names that sound like the name you entered but with alternate spellings.

• Examples:
  • Betsy or Betsey
  • Smith or Smythe
  • Thomas or Tomas

Use Wild card characters for name fields.  

• Helpful symbols to use in your name search include:  
  • ? to match any single character  
  • * to match any number of characters - note that two characters must precede the * wildcard.
  • Example: You know the person’s name was Thomas but unsure of the spelling, and you know the person’s last name begins with “Sh”
    • First name: Thomas?  
    • Last name: Sh*

Try searching an individual database within our collection to explore a specific location, population, and date range.   

• Click on “Search” in the upper left corner and then click “A to Z list of all databases”
• Select an individual database that interests you based on the specific location, population, and date range. 

• What you type in the search fields is exactly what the search tool will look for
• Do not abbreviate state names
• Do not add extra spaces between names or words
• Names and locations must be spelled correctly
• Exact search limits your results, so only use this tool once you have tried a broader search

Save records by using the “Save Record” button with the star icon on the search page.

Access your saved records by clicking the “Saved Records” button on the right side of the search page. 

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