Tag: cluster research

Our ancestors did not live in a vacuum. They lived, worked, socialized, and married in the midst of a larger group of people. Those people included not just family members but friends, neighbors, employers and fellow employees, fellow churchgoers, and business associates. Genealogists often refers to this group with the clever shorthand of the “FAN” club—their friends, associates, and neighbors. Researching this larger group of people often leads to greater success in reconstructing families. Ms. Smith provides guidelines and several case studies of applying the technique.

As Aristotle noted, “Man is by nature a social animal”—he has family, society, and throughout history he has moved with them. This session includes tips, tricks, and examples of how researching the neighborhood can further your research.

Jessica Trotter holds a Master of Science in Information, Archives and Records Management Specialization from the University of Michigan—but works in public libraries by day. Her genealogy research areas include Midwest, African American, British Isles, Canadian, and Early American research.