My British Isles Origins - Crossing the Pond (931)

This course will help you trace ancestors who arrived in America from the British Isles, concentrating on the period from 1600 to 1830. Some genealogists know from their research that they have origins in England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, or the neighbouring islands. Others may want to look for British or Irish origins because they believe they have exhausted all avenues of research in the United States.

Answers to the question — How do I cross the pond? — may vary according to the place of origin in the British Isles, the time-period and what is or is not known about ancestors. When comparing records across the British Isles you find they have similarities and differences. There are social, cultural, political and economic variables too. However, no matter what your region of interest, there is a common need for a good foundation of information and record knowledge. The information comes from your research, your knowledge of migration history as well as the context of the times on both sides of the Atlantic.

The course begins with advice on identifying your immigrant ancestor in America, supported with historical information on population movements before and after the Revolution. Sources most likely to offer clues about origins are explained and presented with research strategies.

The focus then changes to looking at your ancestors’ origins in the British Isles. The topics covered include: major migrations out; when, where from, where to; sources for searching within particular migrant groups; and, advice on searching for people who do not fit any patterns. There is also advice on how to make the best use of surname information and survey techniques. Lessons 3 and 4 look at some of the key records you will want to consider for this time period in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

The emphasis is on using online resources and on helping you develop the skills to initiate searches after the course. You will try out online indexes, websites that lead you to sources and finding aids that help you locate sources that may or may not be online. The course shows you how to identify and select the best records to search based on your problem, minimum information required for a search, and ease of access.

At the end of the course you will understand the challenges to be faced in ‘crossing the pond’ and have had some practical experience with locating places, and searching online records and catalogues.