Family Tree Research
An accurate family tree requires more than just browsing names online. I locate and analyze records—many of which are not digitized—at libraries and archives. I focus on reliable sources such as parish records, wills, and land records. From there, I carefully correlate information without making assumptions. I maintain detailed citations throughout the research process. DNA testing is also used (if possible) to confirm connections or help break down research brick walls.
Help for Adoptees and People with unknown parentage.
I enjoy assisting adoptees and those with unknown ancestry in uncovering their biological identities. This often involves navigating multiple DNA testing platforms for best results, and combining traditional documentary research with genetic genealogy.
Understand your DNA results
DNA matching can be exciting AND overwhelming, especially for Y-DNA and mtDNA results. I’ve helped clients interpret their DNA matches, grouping people by common ancestors or identifying unknown relatives. Whether you’ve tested at Ancestry, 23andMe, MyHeritage, FTDNA, or others, I can help you make sense of it.
House & Farm History
I did my first house history when I was fourteen years old. It catapulted me into the world of genealogy and it has been a life long fascination. Doing a house history involves:
Knowing how to use land records. Sometimes the process goes smoothly, and other times not. If an address has changed over time, such as in a pioneer town turned city, locating the original records are challenging. Roads can change over the years as well as townships and county lines. Using old maps is instrumental in doing a house history.
What draws me to house histories is the stories behind who lived in any given home. Again, it’s important to know where to look for helpful records.
I also have years of experience in photographing old homes. A house history is complete when it includes tastefully done photos of the interior, including fireplaces, trim, stairway banisters and window detail.
If you are curious about the home you live in I would love to help!
Photo Scanning & Digital Restoration
The importance of photo restoration is twofold.
One, a professional restoration will bring your old portrait back to life. You may see details that you have previously missed. Water damage or tears can be repaired within reason. Also, if done professionally, it will still resemble the original, but in a clearer way. I have many years of experience in using Photoshop and would love to help with this.
Two, I strongly believe that all old family photos should be professionally scanned and digitized. Once we do this, you can keep the file safe on an external hard drive or in cloud storage. You can share these images with other family members and they can them print them if they wish. Your old photos will be saved for posterity.
I recently purchased a dedicated photo scanner - it is built to scan those smaller prints we used to have made “in the old days.” It is safe, effective, and also scans the back of each photo when writing is present.
Although research is my main focus, I would be thrilled to help my clients with photo scanning to complete their family history project.
Family Documents, Photos, and Loose Material Organization
Have you inherited a box of unorganized family history notes and photos from an elderly family member? Or are your own notes scattered and disorganized? We have all been there, including me. The thrill of researching leaves little time for organizing. But if we don’t take care of this, no one besides us will want to read our family history!
I would be happy to help you put these items in order. Original photos should be kept in archival protectors, folders and boxes. They should be professionally scanned and saved to file, shared with family. If possible, papers pertaining to family history should be catalogued using genealogy software such as Roots Magic or Family Tree Maker. If you don’t want to go to this length we can always fill out your pedigree and family group sheets manually, print them and/or save as a PDF.
Personal Legacy Book, Video or Audio Recording
I am fascinated by the stories that people have about their own lives. Names and dates are one thing, but the stories behind them can be incredible. I would love to help someone compile their story, whether it’s in a written, audio, or video form.
"My wife and I bought an old house built in the 1800's and soon after became very interested in the history of our land. We enlisted Susan's genealogy services and were absolutely blown away at the level of service and detail we received. She included all the important historical dates and even went beyond by printing out (on parchment) the title for our house from 1802! We got an old map as well and both are to be framed and hung on the walls. I highly recommend this service if you need a house history done. Truly amazing service." -ZM, Stone Mills, Ontario
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“I have known Susan for some time now, and while I haven't had the pleasure of utilizing her services personally, I've heard nothing but glowing reviews from those who have. Susan's dedication to unraveling family histories and house histories is truly commendable.
Her passion for genealogy shines through in every project she undertakes, as she meticulously researches and uncovers the intricate details of her clients' ancestries and the stories behind their homes. Susan's expertise in this field is evident in her thoroughness and attention to detail, ensuring that every piece of information she discovers is accurate and meaningful.
Not only is Susan incredibly knowledgeable, but she also possesses a natural talent for connecting with her clients on a personal level, making the journey of tracing one's roots or uncovering the history of a beloved home an enriching and rewarding experience.
I wholeheartedly recommend Susan to anyone seeking a professional genealogist who is not only skilled in her craft but also deeply passionate about preserving and celebrating the past.”
-A.G., Ayr, Ontario