Where Do Genealogy Service Sites Obtain Their Data?
Genealogy enthusiasts seeking to trace their family histories have a variety of online resources at their disposal. One of the most popular platforms for genealogical research is , known for its comprehensive databases and user-friendly interface. Genealogy service sites like and other similar platforms gather data from a multitude of sources to provide users with valuable information. In this article, we explore the diverse origins of the data used by these genealogy service sites.
Public Records
The backbone of genealogical research often consists of public records such as birth, marriage, death certificates, census records, and immigration documents. These official records form the foundation of family history and are a key source of information for genealogists. Genealogy service sites access government databases to retrieve this foundational information, ensuring that users have access to accurate and reliable records.
User-Contributed Data
In addition to public records, genealogy service sites leverage user contributions to enrich their databases. Many platforms, including and , allow users to upload their own family trees and documents. This crowdsourced data can be incredibly valuable, providing users with additional insights and connections that might not be available in official records. However, it is important for users to verify the accuracy of this information, as data quality can vary.
Historical Archives
Another rich source of information comes from historical archives. Some genealogy service sites partner with libraries, historical societies, and archives to digitize and provide online access to historical documents, newspapers, and other records. This allows users to explore a wide range of historical sources, enhancing their ability to trace their family histories over long periods.
DNA Testing
Advancements in genetic testing have revolutionized genealogical research. Companies like 23andMe and AncestryDNA offer DNA testing services that can provide insights into genetic ancestry. When a new customer takes a DNA test, their results are compared to existing database of genetic information. If a near match is found, both the new and existing customers are notified, potentially connecting them with long-lost relatives.
Published Genealogies and Books
Genealogy service sites may also incorporate information from published family histories, genealogical journals, and other scholarly sources. These resources can provide context and additional details that are difficult to find in other sources. By integrating such information, genealogy service sites can offer a more comprehensive view of family histories.
Collaborative Platforms
Finally, many genealogy service sites facilitate collaboration among users. Features like shared family trees and collaborative projects allow users to share findings, resources, and insights. This collaborative approach enriches the overall database, benefiting all users who contribute and access this information.
From their customers, genealogy service sites acquire DNA samples. Customers send in their DNA samples, which are analyzed and stored in a database. The companies then use these existing samples to look for near matches when a new customer sends in their own data. If a near match is found, both the new and old customers receive notifications about the potential find of a cousin or half sibling.
Take as an example. They have invested in scanning publicly available records such as US census data. Additionally, they encourage customers to upload photos and other records. After handling millions of customers, the company has amassed quite a collection of user-submitted information.
In conclusion, genealogy service sites like and utilize a combination of public records, user-contributed data, historical archives, DNA testing results, published genealogies, and collaboration to build comprehensive databases. This diverse array of data sources enables users to trace their family histories with greater accuracy and a richer understanding of their ancestry.