Finding a Professional Genealogy Researcher

Some readers may want to hire a professional researcher, perhaps for specific research or because they cannot spare the time personally. Specialised work, such as reading documents in Latin and Old English may be right outside your expertise, although you can add these to your family history aims if and when your research requires it.

You can get advice on most of the main genealogy sites such as GENUKI and the many UK links online. Various family history journals and newsletters also feature advertisements for a whole range of local searching and more specialised services. Bear in mind, however, that many enthusiasts carry out work free of charge on the basis of 'give and take'. This especially includes visiting a local record office to do a search or collect a certificate that can save a lot of time and expense and is an ideal form of reciprocation.

Overseas researchers, such as those from the USA, can benefit particularly, as well as novices who have not yet the expertise to be of much help reciprocally.

There is also scope for people in the UK to share work with someone who lives at a town someone else is researching, in return for reciprocal help. This is where the family history societies and mailing lists help in putting people in touch with each other. All this keeps the cost down, avoids the need for professionals, and adds to the social aspects of family history as a hobby. Many amateurs who have given many years to their research can provide more expert help than those making a charge. Only by giving as well as taking can such an invaluable network be maintained. Check out the society or email the secretary in your 'target' town to find out what voluntary services can be expected, and how best you can use these and economise on time and effort.