How To Research Your New York Ancestors

Researching New York ancestors can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. New York has a rich and diverse history, with many resources for genealogical research. New York research can be difficult especially for those genealogists accustomed to the orderly organization of records for the New England states. Keep in mind that up through the American Revolution, New York was considered the "wild West" and two factors - land speculation and the Erie Canal construction - led to explosive growth in the early late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Understanding the historical contextUnderstanding the historical context

New York has been a pivotal state since its founding in the early 17th century. It was a major entry point for immigrants arriving in the United States, particularly through Ellis Island, which operated from 1892 to 1954. Understanding the historical context of New York is crucial as it will guide genealogists in locating records and understanding the migratory patterns that might have affected ancestors.

Vital recordsVital records

Birth Records: New York began statewide registration of births in 1881. Prior to this, birth records were kept by individual towns and cities. The New York City Municipal Archives holds birth records for the city from 1847 to 1909.
Marriage Records: These records are also available from 1881 onward. For marriages before this period, church records and newspapers are valuable resources.
Death Records: Death records are similarly available from 1881. The New York City Municipal Archives has death records for the city from 1795 to 1948.

Census recordsCensus records

Federal Census: Conducted every ten years since 1790, these records are available online through various genealogy websites including MyHeritage.
State Census: New York conducted its own censuses in various years, including 1825, 1835, 1845, 1855, 1865, 1875, 1892, 1905, 1915, and 1925. These can be accessed through the New York State Archives and FamilySearch.

Immigration and naturalization recordsImmigration and naturalization records

Given New York's status as an immigration hub, these records are particularly significant.

Ellis Island Records: Over 12 million immigrants passed through Ellis Island. Records from 1892 to 1954 are available online at MyHeritage and other genealogy sites.
Castle Garden Records: For arrivals before Ellis Island, Castle Garden served as the primary immigration station from 1820 to 1892. These records are available at MyHeritage as well as other genealogy websites.
Naturalization Records: These documents can provide information about an ancestor’s immigration and naturalization process. They can be found in federal, state, and local courts.

Church and cemetery recordsChurch and cemetery records

Before the establishment of vital records, churches were primary keepers of birth, marriage, and death records. Cemeteries also offer valuable information through tombstones and burial records.

Church Records: Many churches in New York kept meticulous records. Denominational archives, such as those of the Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish faiths, are essential resources.
Cemetery Records: Organizations such as the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society (NYG&B) and Find a Grave can help locate cemetery records.

Land and Property RecordsLand and Property Records

Land and property records can provide insights into the economic status and movements of ancestors.

Deeds and Mortgages: These records are kept by county clerks and are accessible through county courthouses and archives. The New York State Archives offers Real Property Records Pathfinder - an online directory of access points for New York land records.
Maps and Atlases: Historical maps and atlases can offer context and pinpoint exact locations of ancestral properties. New York Public Library offers an extensive online collection of New York City and New York State historical maps.

Newspapers and ObituariesNewspapers and Obituaries

Local newspapers can offer a wealth of information, including obituaries, birth announcements, and marriage notices.

Chronicling America: This Library of Congress digital resource provides access to many old newspapers, searchable by name and event.
NYS Historical Newspapers: An online database with 400 different online historical newspapers from New York.
New York Online Historical Newspapers: An online directory of free and fee-based access points to New York historical newspapers.
New York Public Library: The library has an extensive collection of historical newspapers.

Military RecordsMilitary Records

For ancestors who served in the military, these records can provide significant personal details and historical context.

Civil War Records: The New York State Military Museum has extensive records.
World War I and II Records: Available through the MyHeritage, National Archives and various online databases.

Genealogical Societies and Online ResourcesGenealogical Societies and Online Resources

Internet Archive: A free access online archive, Internet Archive offers over 10,000 New York-related record sets.
MyHeritage: Online access to over 330 different New York resources including New York City Marriages 1866-1949, New York City Deaths, 1866-1948, New York State Death Index, 1880-1956, and more.
New York Genealogical and Biographical Society (NYG&B): Offers a range of resources, including publications, databases, and educational programs.
Online Databases: Websites such as MyHeritage provide extensive collections of New York records.
Reclaim the Records: A non-profit advocating for free records access offers New York City and New York State records.

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