Clinton County New York Family History, Navigating Genealogy Research for Ancestral Connections

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Unveiling Clinton County New York Family History

Step into the captivating realm of Clinton County New York family history exploration! Join me on an exhilarating journey through the corridors of genealogy, honed specifically to unveil the intricate tapestry of ancestral connections nestled within Clinton County, New York. Drawing from over four decades of immersive genealogical research, I am eager to share invaluable insights garnered through countless triumphs and challenges.

As we embark on this voyage of discovery, envision yourself nestled in the warmth of your favorite mug, whether brimming with steaming coffee or aromatic tea. Settle in, for we are about to traverse the labyrinthine paths of history, guided by the flickering light of census records and vital documents.

Prepare to be enthralled as we navigate through the annals of time, peeling back layers of obscurity to reveal the stories woven into the fabric of our lineage. Together, we shall unravel mysteries, decipher cryptic clues, and unearth treasures hidden within the archives.

So, let us embark on this odyssey hand in hand, fueled by curiosity and boundless enthusiasm. Welcome to a world where the past comes alive, and every document holds the promise of unlocking another chapter in the saga of our ancestors.

Understanding the Challenges in Genealogy Research

Navigating genealogy research in Clinton County, New York isn't always a walk in the park.

In 1999, as I drove on Cornelia Street, crossing Addoms Street, in Plattsburgh, New York, I wondered where all the descendants of the Clark, Crabtree, Danford, Elliott, Haines, Lewis, Soper, Tankard, and Wheeler families were who lived in Clinton County, New York during its early inception in1786.

And as the warm air blew across my face, my journey began to climb the family tree of these amazing families who stories were hidden away in the pages of time. I did not know, at this time, that my research connected the singer, Steven Tyler to the Elliott family of Clinton County, New York.

There were many times in my research I had head-scratching moments. From sparse records to pesky surname variations, there's never a dull moment in this pursuit.  The early descendants maintain contact with me, encouraging me to continue with my research.

Tom Perrin lived in New Jersey, while Sandra Sunderland, “Oh, I will you would publish a book”. As I climb the tree of these Clinton County, New York families, I discovered that many of the early descendants of these families, still lived in Clinton County, New York. And I had the honor of speaking with them sharing the information that I found, and they are giving me photos.  

Discovering Available Resources

As an expert in genealogical research, I was able to search through a variety of resources. And accurately connect the family with their ancestors. The two resources that I obtained information from were primary sources, and secondary sources, Primary sources are documents that are recorded at the time of the event. For instance, your aunt may tell a story, about an experience she had as a child. This is a primary source because she is the witness to the event.

Now, if your cousins tell you the same story, it becomes a secondary source, because your cousin was not at the event. Another example is primary and secondary sources. When examining primary sources, a birth certificate may be a primary or secondary source. It depends on who provided the information on the birth certificate.

Other resources that can help you are online databases, archives, libraries, and local historical societies. These are excellent sources for you to begin gathering information about your ancestors. The two most popular are Family Search.org and Ancestry.com.

 In my experience, I have utilized these databases because they have extensive genealogical resources. You can compare your research with others who have researched similar families. But, when gathering information for others, always do your own research because sometimes the information that is provided about a family member may be inaccurate, and it is very important to analyze the genealogical information that you have gathered and compare it with the information from the database and other sources.

 

Exploring Census Records and Vital Documents 

Delving into census records and vital documents opens a door to the rich tapestry of our familial history. These repositories of information are invaluable treasures in the quest to unearth the stories of our ancestors. Within their pages lie a trove of details, ranging from the fundamental—names and ages—to the nuanced—occupations and birthplaces. But their significance extends beyond the obvious, often revealing unexpected connections and branching pathways in our family trees.

As I researched the Platt Family of Clinton County, New York, I discovered William Platt, in the Ellenburg, Clinton County, New York Census, He was listed with his wife, Hannah and their children. And after interviewing the descendants of the Platt family, researching all of the branches of their family tree from England to other lands that stretched across North America, I published the Platt Family genealogy.

Other information that is found as you research the census is the discovery of maiden names or additional family members living under the same roof. Encountering a mother's or brother's name alongside the primary family unit can spark excitement, igniting a fervent pursuit of further knowledge. Suddenly, a new branch sprouts from the family tree, beckoning exploration, and inquiry. Each new name unearthed represents a thread waiting to be woven into the intricate narrative of our familial saga.

These discoveries not only broaden our understanding of lineage but also evoke a sense of connection to the past. With each piece of information uncovered, we bridge the temporal divide, forging tangible links to those who came before us.

Census records and vital documents thus serve as more than mere repositories of data; they are gateways to the past, offering glimpses into the lives and legacies of our forebears.

Deciphering centuries-old documents like the census poses a unique challenge due to the often intricate and fading handwriting. The script of yesteryear can be a maze of loops and curls, making some letters nearly indecipherable. However, with patience and practice, one can master the art of reading these ancient scripts. Over time, what once seemed cryptic and obscure gradually becomes familiar territory. It's akin to unlocking a door to the past, where each stroke of the pen tells a story waiting to be rediscovered. Embracing this journey transforms deciphering into a second nature skill, enriching historical exploration.

Searching Probate and Land Records

Now, let's dive into probate and land records. These documents offer a fascinating glimpse into our ancestors' lives, from their property ownership to their familial relationships. I'll never forget the time I stumbled upon the record of Jane (Elliott) Crabtree, the wife of Charles Crabtree and the daughter, of Robert and Elizabeth Elliott of Clintonville, New York. I had spent a few hours in the Clinton County Surrogate Court office in Plattsburgh, New York, gathering information about the Clark family when I discovered a document was tucked against the front of the drawer, so if I had not visited the office this day, others would not have been able to have this important document. This document provided the connection between the Clark family and the Crabtree family in Clinton County, New York.

Finding Military and Immigration Records

Military and immigration records are another goldmine for genealogists. They provide invaluable insights into our ancestors' lives, from their military service to their journeys to new lands. One of my most memorable research breakthroughs came from discovering my ancestor's Military record, detailing his cause of death. He was listed in the Army during WWI and in 1942 he was stationed in Maryland and was taken to the hospital because he had a cerebral hemorrhage. This was another branch of my family tree that I was able gather information about his life.

Several years ago, my friend asked me to research her family history, and even though they had deep roots in Rochester, New York, she wanted to learn more about her family who migrated to the U.S. I was able to locate her direct ancestor, John Eter who was born in Bavaria. He was naturalized on October 8, 1852, at the Superior Court in New York, New York. He settled in Rochester, New York where many of his descendent still live. I gathered all my research on her family which included photos and documents, so she could share this with her family.

Overcoming Brick Walls

Sometimes, as you are researching information about a specific ancestor, who are unable to find any information about them. It is the researchers dreaded brick walls. Every genealogist encounters them at some point in their research journey. You may have exhausted all avenues to gather information, so decide to begin researching another branch of your family tree. But you still wonder about that ancestor you were unable to find information about.

But fear not; there's always a way to break through. While you are researching another branch of your family. This ancestor appears in a record as living with another relative, whom you have just learned about, now you are back on track, gathering with your research. 

I had run into a brick wall, when researching my great grandfather. I searched census records and was able to complete the names of his parents, and siblings. But I was unable to gather any information about him. A cousin contacted me, and he was researching the same family.

He explained to me that he had information on my great grandfather. And this is how I was able to learn more about him.

Wrapping Up: Unveiling the Final Threads

Well, folks, we've covered a lot of ground today on the Clinton County New York family history. From navigating census records to overcoming brick walls, genealogy research in Clinton County is an adventure like no other. So, roll up your sleeves, dust off those old records, and let's continue the quest to uncover our ancestral connections.

Remember, every name, date, and story we uncover brings us one step closer to understanding our roots and honoring those who came before us. Happy researching and may your family tree continue to grow and flourish! If you need any assistance in researching feel free to contact Dr. Guadalupe Vanderhorst Rodriguez at info@bookserenity. com.