Throughout the United States and Canada, numerous major and minor cities have been documenting their residents’ information for centuries. In some older metropolises, records date as far back as the 1700s.
City directories are valuable resources for constructing a family tree.
However, they can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with a major metropolitan area.
The following are a few key strategies to help you navigate city directories and locate accurate genealogy information:
- The Direct Approach
Begin your search with the information you already know.
For example, if your ancestor’s name is Charlie Smith and they lived in Manhattan, start by looking for Charlie in the directory.
Directories are typically organized by surname and time period, but be cautious as some surnames are also occupations, which can be confusing.
By searching directly, you may discover marital status, birth and death information, and possibly even extended family members. - Search by Resemblance
As surnames can have different spellings due to changes over time, typos, or lack of knowledge, try looking up names that sound similar.
Consider using Soundex, a phonetic coding system that groups surnames with similar sounds but different spellings.
For instance, SMITH/SMYTH/SMYTHE would share the same Soundex code.
This tool can help uncover hidden family surnames. - Search by Address or Street
If you know your ancestor’s address or street, search the directory accordingly.
This information can reveal other residents at the same address, helping to fill gaps in your knowledge. Also, explore surrounding addresses, as neighbors could be family members. - Search by Occupation
Occupations can be connected to surnames and provide valuable information.
If you’re aware of a family-run business, search the directory for this establishment to learn who worked there, whether it was passed down through generations, and other helpful details.
Each piece of information contributes to the puzzle.
While city directories might not be the ultimate solution for your genealogy quest, they can offer valuable information, clues, and a way to fill gaps or confirm existing knowledge.
Check with your local library and archives for these directories.
Online searches may reveal city directories available on CD, which could be useful depending on your budget.
