How to deal with missing information due to surname changes and adoptions

How to Deal with Missing Information Due to Surname Changes and Adoptions

Researching one's family history can be a fascinating journey. However, it can also be frustrating when you come across missing information due to surname changes and adoptions. When a person changes their surname, it can be difficult to trace their family lineage. Similarly, when an adoption occurs, the child's original surname may not be recorded, causing even further difficulty in tracing their family history. In this article, we will discuss some techniques and strategies that can be used to help deal with missing information due to surname changes and adoptions.

1. Know the Basics

Before delving into the specific techniques for researching missing information, it is important to understand the basics. Surname changes and adoptions have been occurring for centuries, so it is essential to know when and why these changes happen. Surname changes can occur for various reasons, such as marriage, immigration, or legal name changes. Adoptions can also happen for various reasons, such as when a child has been orphaned, abandoned, or when a biological parent is unable to care for them. Knowing the reasons behind a surname change or adoption can help you gather more information about the individual in question.

2. Gather Information from Family Members

One major key to researching missing information is to gather as much information as possible from family members. Oftentimes, family members may be aware of a relative's surname change or adoption, and can provide additional information or clues. Make a list of all the family members who could potentially have any information, and reach out to them to see if they know anything.

3. Utilize Genealogy Websites and Databases

Genealogy websites and databases can also be valuable in researching missing information. Websites like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org are great resources for uncovering information on surname changes and adoptions. These sites allow you to search for records using various criteria, which can lead to new clues in your research.

4. Explore Adoption Records

Adoption records can also be valuable in researching missing information. When a child is adopted, their original birth certificate may be sealed and replaced with a new one. However, it is still possible to obtain information from adoption records through various means such as court orders, search angels, or adoption agency resources. These records can provide information about biological parents, birth locations, and other important details that may have been lost due to a surname change or adoption.

5. Utilize DNA Testing

DNA testing has become an increasingly popular tool in genealogy research. DNA tests can help uncover information about biological relationships and can be a useful tool in researching missing information due to surname changes and adoptions. Services like 23andMe and AncestryDNA offer DNA testing, and matching with other individuals who share DNA with you can lead to valuable new clues in your research.

6. Consider Hiring a Professional Genealogist

Finally, if all else fails, it may be worth considering hiring a professional genealogist to help research missing information. Professional genealogists have years of experience in researching family history and can use a variety of techniques to uncover information about surname changes and adoptions. They can also provide guidance on how to get past any roadblocks you may encounter in your research.

In conclusion, researching missing information due to surname changes and adoptions requires patience, persistence, and a variety of techniques. By knowing the basics, gathering information from family members, utilizing genealogy websites and databases, exploring adoption records, utilizing DNA testing, and considering hiring a professional genealogist, you can increase your chances of uncovering valuable information about your family history. While it may be frustrating to encounter missing information, the journey to uncovering your family's past can be a rewarding one.