Resources to help you find records, learn research skills, and discover more about your ancestors.
One of the greatest advantages family historians have today is access to an incredible range of resources. Whether you’re searching online, visiting local archives, or learning new research techniques, there are countless tools available to help you uncover your family’s story.
The key is not trying to use everything at once. Start with a few trusted resources, learn how they work, and gradually expand your research toolkit as your confidence grows.
Remember that no single website contains every record. Successful genealogy research often involves using multiple resources and comparing information from different sources.
Before exploring the resources below, it’s helpful to understand that genealogy websites use different access models:
Don’t assume that a paid resource is always better than a free one. Many excellent records are available at no cost, while some paid resources offer access to unique collections that may not be available elsewhere.
As your research grows, you can decide which resources are worth investing in based on your family’s locations, time periods, and research goals.
These are excellent starting points regardless of where your ancestors lived.
A free genealogy website offering access to billions of historical records, family trees, and research guides from around the world.
One of the largest genealogy databases available, with records from many countries and a large collection of user-created family trees.
A valuable resource for locating burial information, photographs of gravestones, and family connections.
Historical newspapers can provide birth announcements, obituaries, marriage notices, community news, and fascinating details about your ancestors' lives.
Local Libraries and Historical Societies (usually free)
Many libraries and societies provide access to records, local histories, newspapers, and knowledgeable volunteers who can help with research.
Canada has a wealth of records available online and through archives across the country.
Library and Archives Canada (free)
A primary source for census records, military records, immigration records, and other important historical documents.
Provincial Archives Canada (Usually free)
Each province maintains its own collections of records, including vital statistics, land records, photographs, and local history materials.
Provincial Genealogical Societies (free and membership options)
Many provinces have active genealogy societies that provide educational resources, publications, and local expertise.
Local Museums and Historical Societies (usually free)
Smaller organizations often hold unique collections that may not be available online.
Cemetery and Obituary Resources (free and subscription options)
Local cemetery databases, funeral home websites, and newspaper archives can provide valuable information about family members and communities.
Scotland is fortunate to have some of the most comprehensive historical records available anywhere in the world.
ScotlandsPeople (pay-as-you-go)
The official source for Scottish birth, marriage, death, census, church, and valuation records. Searches are free, but many records require credits to view.
National Records of Scotland (free)
Provides access to archives and information about historical Scottish records.
National Library of Scotland (free)
Offers historic maps, directories, military records, photographs, and digital collections useful for family historians.
Scottish Indexes (free and subscription options
Provides indexes, educational videos, and research tools focused on Scottish genealogy.
Local Archives and Family History Societies (free and membership options)
Many regions of Scotland maintain archives and societies dedicated to preserving local records and history.
Scottish records are often exceptionally detailed, making them invaluable for tracing families across multiple generations.
Researching Other Countries
Not every family history journey begins in Canada or Scotland.
If your ancestors came from another country, a simple online search for:
"[Country Name] genealogy records"
or
"[Country Name] archives"
is often an excellent place to start.
Most countries have national archives, libraries, or genealogy organizations that provide access to historical records. Genealogy societies, local archives, and regional websites can also be valuable sources of information.
As you research, look for resources specific to the area where your ancestors lived, as records are often kept at local, regional, or provincial levels rather than nationally.
While online records receive most of the attention today, books remain valuable research tools.
Consider looking for:
Many libraries now provide access to digitized books that can be searched online, making these resources more accessible than ever before.
Genealogy is a skill that develops over time. Webinars, online courses, blogs, YouTube tutorials, genealogy society meetings, and conferences can all help you become a more confident researcher.
Skeleton's Key Tip
Start with the records closest to your ancestor.
Before searching dozens of websites, identify where and when your ancestor lived. Once you know a location and time period, you'll be able to focus on the resources most likely to contain the records you need.
Not All Records Are Online
One of the biggest misconceptions among beginners is that everything has been digitized. While millions of records are available online, many valuable documents remain available only in archives, libraries, local record offices, or private collections.
If you can't find an ancestor online, don't assume the record doesn't exist—it may simply not be digitized yet.
Records can Appear in Multiple Places
The same census, church record, or military record may be available on several websites. If you can't find a record on one site, try another. Different websites use different search engines, indexes, and collections.
Learn Before you Subscribe
Many genealogy websites offer free trials or limited free access. Before purchasing a subscription, explore what records are available for the area and time period you're researching.
Ask for Help
Genealogy is often easier when you connect with others. Local genealogy societies, family history groups, online forums, and social media communities can provide guidance, encouragement, and local knowledge.
Start at Home
Don't overlook the resources already in your possession. Family photographs, certificates, letters, diaries, newspaper clippings, military papers, family Bibles, and heirlooms often contain clues that lead to new discoveries.
You don't need every website, subscription, or research guide to become a successful family historian. Start with a few trusted resources, learn how to use them effectively, and add new tools as your research grows.
Every family story begins with a single record and a single question. The right resources can help you uncover the answers.
Whether you're just getting started or have hit a roadblock in your research, Skeletons in the Closet Genealogy offers articles, tips, guides, and professional research services designed to help you discover and preserve your family's story.
Sometimes the best resource is having an experienced researcher point you in the right direction.
A Note About Links
You may notice that direct website links are not included on this page. Websites occasionally change their addresses or reorganize their content, which can result in broken links over time. By searching for the resource name, you'll be able to find the most current version of the website and ensure you're accessing the official source.
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