Family History Research
Trace Your Ancestors with Professional Research
The question of ‘where do I come from’ is an age old one. With professional family history research, you can get a search for your ancestors that you can believe in! You may have something in particular you would like to find out or want a second opinion on existing research – that’s where I step in. I provide meticulous research for everything from simple document “lookups” to detailed research projects. For physical records, I specialise in Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, and Essex but the growing availability of digital work can often allow me to deliver records across England and Wales.
Looking to start family history research but not sure where to begin?
Here are the Benefits of Consulting A Professional Genealogist!
Archive Access
Are you looking for a family history researcher in Cambridgeshire, Suffolk or Essex? Perhaps you have extended you family back through online records and now need someone to look at documents in archives that are too far away from home, or you are a professional genealogist looking for someone to conduct genealogy research outside your area. I can help!
Results You Can Trust
Commissioning a qualified genealogist isn’t just about ease – it gives you confidence in the results too! Your research will be reported in meticulous detail, including full citations, search parameters used, where searches were unsuccessful as well as successful, an analysis of the findings, written conclusions and suggestions for further work where appropriate.
Break Down “Brick Walls”
When you have been researching your own family history for some time, hitting a research hurdle isn’t unusual. I do not promise I can break down every brick wall but, with my experience and qualifications, I am usually able to find new ways of looking at a problem, searching different documents, trying new strategies, applying research tools and even suggesting new ideas on where you could look next!
Records Compilation
You may be lucky enough to have a relative who has already looked at your family tree. However, all too often, the family history research we are handed is not in any kind of logical order. Family historians are, after all, far more interested in conducting research than writing it up with future generations in mind! I can work through and add to your research, providing you with a clear and user friendly report.
Picking Up the Trail on Your Family History
Researching your own family history can sometimes take you on unexpected journeys. Unexpected ancestors, conflicting records, and untold stories. My services are specially built to provide support - no matter where you are on that journey. Genealogical sources were never built for the ease of tracing family so I am here to help make sense of it all. I combine my experience and formal training to help you to identify solutions and bridge any gaps within your record. That can mean organising and picking up the trail of any existing research or even getting it all kickstarted.
I offer a free evaluation of up to one hour to assess the project or review any work already conducted. Depending on the details, it is usually appropriate to commission a set number of hours work after which I will report back to you and we can then agree the next steps. For more on this, please read through my terms of service.
Consult a Professional Family Historian
As an experienced family historian and qualified scientist, I hold a unique perspective on family history research. I combine the knowhow and logic of the science world with the passion and experience of a traditional genealogist. With friendly and professional support, discovering your ancestors will truly be a pain-free and fun process.
Testimonials
“I commissioned Karen Cummings to undertake a detailed Family History research project. The research was undertaken within agreed parameters, time-frame and cost. Her detailed Research Report displayed a professional and informative format. It is evident that she applies high professional standards to all aspects of her research and I would endorse her pedigree in the field of Genealogy and Family History. Accordingly, I have unhesitatingly commissioned her to undertake further research on my behalf.”
Robert, Hertfordshire
“I just wanted to say what a fantastic job you have done to date. When I was googling family researchers last year, your website really stood out and now it is easy to see why: the reports are superbly presented and exude the professionalism of your approach – very well done and many thanks indeed.”
Richard, Somerset
“I gave Karen my rough, handwritten, confused family tree chart on various pieces of paper, with a long 60p+ commentary. She turned it into a professional, easy to follow, large single sheet [6ft x 4ft] Family Tree Chart, which she had printed-up by a specialist printer. She was always patient, despite my numerous changes, amendments, and alterations. Her professional approach made the whole project a pleasure.”
Graham, Suffolk
“Many thanks to Karen for all her hard work researching such a common name (Richardson) back to 1774. She answered many family questions (such as the reason for my uncle’s strange middle name) and posed even more. The work was done efficiently, obtaining authorisation for further expenditure before acting. Producing a detailed and comprehensive, yet easy to understand, family history. It has provided me with an insight into my family and I hope, with further help from Karen, to bring together the lives my ancestors lived and how they influence my life now.”
Lynn, Surrey
Tips & Tricks for Family Historians
Are you new to family history research and looking for advice? Or a professional historian after some tips from a fellow researcher? Check out my blog where I share insights and more from my own family history journey.
Let’s Search for Your Ancestors!
Whether it’s untangling family myths or organising your family tree, just get in touch to tell me more about your family research project and find out how I can help you uncover your family's past.
