Collaborative Research

So many of us tackle the quest for ancestry alone. It's a lonely and time consuming process, but one that is very rewarding. Our relatives are genuinely interested in our efforts, and regularly chime in with what they can recall in regard to age-old family stories and anecdotes, and an occasional photograph find. These fragmented and sometimes, apocryphal "clues" are a big help, but most times, the good-natured relative can't provide much more than cheerleading,as they lack the available time or patience to assist with the "wild goose chase" involving late nights scouring internet data bases, studying documents and microfilm at research repositories, and traversing cemeteries. 

In addition to being hired for my research skills and experience, I have found myself in the position of "lifeline" for some familiy historians, and navigator for others. I have a pretty good knowledge of Frederick County, Maryland and its history. For those not as familiar, especially folks living outside the area, I can help decipher the existing information, questions and theories that  you likely have stockpiled. 

Through my study of local history, myriad of past research, writing and documentary projects and assistance to others chasing family heritage, I can provide plenty of context to the Frederick that your ancestors experienced in past time periods. That said, have an uncanny knack for "connecting dots" with the clues you have at hand. At the very least, I will give you my best educated opinion and theories, while also not being afraid to help you bust family myths if needs be. I have had people say that "one hour on the phone (or in person) with me, has equalled a full day or more of working alone in research libraries and cemeteries.  I am quite familiar with the available archival resources at hand, and have a firm understanding of which may be appropriate and helpful for your specific search. In most cases, I can access many of these from the comfort of my desk and personal archive library possessing many tools. 

Call on me to be your co-pilot. Drop me a line via email, or call, to schedule an appointment for a 1-hour call, or "face to face" visit. During this experience, you will be amazed as I fly through the multitude of source materials I have available at my fingertips. And I promise you will learn plenty along the way.

My rate for this service is $60/hour and I assure you it will be well worth it!