In recent years, the genealogical services industry has gone through a remarkable shift due to rapid changes in technology, consumer habits, and market conditions. Traditional genealogical research — which focused on manually searching for records or physically visiting archives — morphed into an era of digital genealogy dominated by online resources and DNA testing.
Basic genealogical searches, which entail tracing family lines through historical documents and archival sources, are still a core service for many practicing genealogists. These services are usually offered on an hourly basis, with rates varying depending upon the complexity of the research and the expertise level of the professional.
Besides the traditional research techniques, DNA testing is an important component in a genealogist’s toolkit that has been increasingly used to discover new, previously unknown branches of their family trees. A number of consumer-oriented genetics testing companies, such as AncestryDNA, 23andMe, and MyHeritage DNA, offer relatively inexpensive DNA testing kits that analyze one’s genetic background and give information about one’s ethnic origins, migration patterns, and familial links.
The search for ancestry does not lie in historical archives and fragile documents but forms an energetic discipline propelled in modern times through the use of technology and the increasing need to relate ourselves back to our backgrounds. But what is really the role of modern-day genealogy? Let’s dig in.
DNA Testing Revolutionizes Research
DNA testing has transformed the art of genealogy. With DNA, you become privy to genetic markers that tell you about your ancestral origins and even potential genetic health risks your ethnic makeup holds. This new ancestral knowledge may give you a sense of curiosity and belonging that will grant a deeper understanding of yourself.
Reach Out to Long-Lost Relatives by Adding Them to Your Family Tree
Online databases and social media groups focused on genealogy make reaching out to distant relatives almost a snap. Imagine finding a cousin from the other side of the world, or finding a lost twig or two in your enormous family tree. Newfound relationships will widen your circle of connection and give insight into your common traditions and culture. The emotional impact of finding and reconnecting with a long-lost family member can be enormous, helping to create a sense of belonging and wholeness in your family story.
Smarter Research Tools Empower Discovery
Gone are the days of searching through black and white film and dusty library books. Journals of historical documents, digitized census information, and immigration records make research today possible in ways it never was before. These powerful tools will enhance your ability to overcome research obstacles and know your family history even better. The excitement of this discovery is what fuels research and compels the need to dig deeper into history.
Preserving Your Family Story for Future Generations
Genealogy isn’t just about the past; it’s also about preserving your family history for the future. By compiling your findings, pictures, and stories, you give a concrete record of your family history to those who come after you. Think of the many times you might be giving your children or your grandchildren a very documented pedigree chart, showing them where they actually come from, having pride in their ancestors, and the uniqueness of their heritage. This will not only encourage a sense of pride in family but ensure that valued stories are kept alive year after year.
Being Aware of Your Heritage Determines Your Present
Genealogy entails more than the mere collection of names and dates; it’s one way of discovering who you are. Through your forefathers’ lives, struggles, and triumphs, true lessons are found on how to live your life. You may find there the shared love of music that spans generations or resilience that defines your family. That can, in turn, give you a better feeling about your heritage; it enables you to inform and guide your life. Genealogy today is not just a hobby but rather a thrilling journey of self-discovery, linkage, and building up a legacy.
Be it an endless feeling that draws you to find your biological origins, reconnect with long-lost family members, or archive a piece of family history for posterity, genealogy is an invigorating and enriching experience. Contact Lauth Investigations International’s Return Assets Division, and let’s uncover your past — together.
