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Using Probate Records in Family History Research

Presented by: David Allen Lambert, Rhona R. McClure, Melanie McComb
Original Broadcasts: May and June 2024

Probate records are crucial—but sometimes overlooked—sources for family historians. Hiding in these legal documents may be full family groups, immediate and extended family connections, origins, and even maiden names. These sources may also be used as vital record substitutes and provide a glimpse into your ancestor’s property and worldly possessions. This three-week online course will provide an in-depth tutorial on how to understand, locate, and leverage wills, inventories, guardianships, and other probate records in your family history research.

This course includes three 90-minute classes and exclusive access to handouts and recordings of each presentation. These recordings and all course materials will be available for the foreseeable future.

Once you complete your registration, you can access this page under “My Account”> “Digital Content.” You will have access to course materials for the foreseeable future.

COURSE SCHEDULE

Class 1: The Basics  
Presented by: David Allen Lambert

Probate records refer to more than just wills; they can include guardianships, inventories, administrations, accounts, bonds, and more. All probate records have specific functions and terminology. This first class will lay the groundwork for the later classes providing you with the tools to understand and navigate these legal documents, critical to your family history research.

Class 2: Locating and Navigating Probate Records  
Presented by: Melanie McComb

The laws governing probate in America changed over time—from colony to colony, state to state—affecting where you’re likely to find certain records. A few states are also arranged by probate district that are distinct from county boundaries. This class will help you determine how to locate probate records by jurisdiction and navigate online and in-person resources.

Class 3: Leveraging Probate Records in Your Family History Research  
Presented by: Rhonda R. McClure

Probate records can act as vital record substitutes, provide family connections, contain maiden names, and more. A single probate document, however, rarely provides the full story. You need to use the record alongside other resources to build your case and think creatively to fully understand its value. Using several case studies, this final class will provide you with strategies for getting the most out of probate records and demonstrate how they can be used to break down genealogical brick walls.