You know, I get asked a lot of questions. I also happen to ask a lot of questions! So here are a few of the questions I come across the most as a professional genealogist. Did I miss your question? Email me or comment below and I’ll try to answer it!
Q: Why should I bother researching my family tree?
A: There are many reasons to research your family! You might need to learn more about your medical history. You might want to discover the ancient origins of your family. Perhaps you’ve heard wonderful (or not so wonderful) stories about your ancestors and you’d like to find out if the story is true. Perhaps you’d like to join a lineage society because you believe in the community service projects they support and need to know if you’re eligible for membership. I could keep going, but I think you’ve got the idea.
Q: What if my family is full of scoundrels? I’m not sure I want to know any more!
A: Everyone’s family has a black sheep or two. If you haven’t found yours yet, you haven’t looked hard enough! In all seriousness, it’s important to learn about everyone in our trees, because they all have something to teach us.
Q: I’m adopted! Can you find my birth parents?
A: Thanks to genealogical DNA tests, it is easier than ever to identify the biological family of an adoptee using Forensic Genealogy techniques. I do not specialize in Forensic Genealogy, but my resources page has some suggestions on how to get started.
Q: I took a DNA test and want to figure out how these people are related to me! (What’s a 3rd cousin, anyhow?) Can you help?
A: Yes! Getting the most of out your DNA results and connecting your matches to shared ancestral couples requires a well-researched family tree. I can help you build out your tree and the trees of specific matches to find that shared ancestral couple.
Q: How long will my project take?
A: It depends on the project and what you want to learn. If you need help solving a very specific puzzle (such as identifying your great-great-grandparents), that will take fewer hours than finding out if you’re related to Charlemagne. It also depends on where your ancestors lived and when they lived there.
Q: How much will it cost?
A: It depends on the project. For research and FamilyTree Tidying, I charge a fixed hourly rate, working in 5-10 hour blocks of time. At the end of each block, I report on my progress and ask if you’d like me to continue. If you need a record pulled from a Riverside or San Bernardino County repository, fixed pricing is available. I also offer brainstorming sessions!
Q: I love researching and solving puzzles. How can you help me?
A: If you love researching as much as I do, this is a great way to get some new ideas on how to break down your genealogical brick wall, while managing your costs. Get my FREE worksheet to get started!
Q: How can I get in touch with you?
A: If you have a question about the genealogy services I offer, send an email to s.cochran@staging.theskeletonwhisperer.com. If you’d like to talk more about your specific project, book a FREE consultation call here!
