GENEALOGY SERVICES

by Joelle Steele

I have been doing genealogy research since 1973 (professionally since 1983). I trace lineage, fix broken lineages, and try to find ways past what can best be described as “dead ends.” I scrutinize everything to make sure I’m following the right person and the right line. I can read most documents or entire websites that are written in English, Spanish, French, Italian, Swedish, and Latin. I have also been digitally restoring old family photos since 1994 (you can read an article about me called Digital Plastic Surgery). You can also check out my articles, advice column, books, classes, and testimonials from my genealogy clients.

WORKING TOGETHER

I rely on vital statistics records (birth, death, marriage, divorce, etc.) that YOU provide, preferably for at least three generations, plus your own. While I work on your lineage, I may have questions for you. So, I will email you with those questions and I will expect you to email me back your answer at your very earliest convenience. I do not talk on the phone or read/send text message because I want to have a written record of all communications between us.

STARTING FROM SCRATCH

I will use your vital statistics records to trace your lineage using 20 or more websites. I reference multiple websites in order to ensure that misinformation found in some of the large genealogical websites (e.g., ancestry.com, WikiTree, etc.) does not end up corrupting your family tree. When I research, I double-check birth and death dates, and look for name changes, alternate name spellings, and duplicate names to keep your lineage on track.

PICKING UP WHERE YOU LEFT OFF

If you have already traced some of your lineage but hit a dead end and are unable to trace further on a particular line, I will double-check that line for possible errors and correct them if/when possible. If you then want me to continue tracing for you, I will do so.

YOUR RESULTS

Ancestry tracing can fall into place without a problem. Or, it can be a nightmare, as often happens with misinformation or blocked lineages. A lot is dependent on the vital statistics records you provide, the size of your family, and how much information is available online for your ancestors. I work pretty fast because I am familiar with ancestral data, the differences in what all the various websites have to offer, and how those websites work. So, in general, the average amount of time spent on lineage tracing is around 20-40 hours. But, some trees are very large or complex, and in that case, your tracing could take up to 200 hours. So, I ask that you set the budget before we start.

FEES

I charge $45 per hour, payable to joellesteele@joellesteele.com at PayPal. I can work within your budget, and I can work for you over periods of time that coincide better with your budgetary needs, e.g., 4 hours per month, 6 hours every other month, etc. I charge for all the time I spend searching, even if there are only minimal results or if I am unable to find all of your ancestors. But, I will let you know immediately if I suspect this is going to be the case so that you can decide if you want me to continue searching. If you want me to digitally restore your faded or damaged photos, I need to see the photos first and will then quote you a fee.

WHAT YOU GET

When I have traced your ancestry as far as possible, I will email you a GEDCOM file (in case you decide to get genealogical software that will allow you to add to and update your tree) and a family history report that corresponds to your tree. I also offer an optional family history book (with photos you provide) in either a PDF or in a spiral-bound (5.5" x 8.5") book. Books vary in price depending on how much information is in your family tree.