Historical and Genealogical Research

I became a board-certified genealogist on New Years Day, 2009.

I began this journey early in 2004. Back then, the Board for Certification of Genealogists had three categories of certification, which they consolidated into one in 2005.

The two most substantial requirements are the case study and the compiled genealogy. My case study used all indirect evidence to prove the father of a man born in 1800 who lived in North Georgia. My compiled genealogy was a descendant lineage beginning with a Milledgeville hotel owner that ended with his grandson who served in the Civil War but died young before he had any children.

As everyone who goes through this says, you learn a lot during the process. Certification does not fall into your lap and it is a lot more difficult than taking a test. Finding the material to use in a case study that fits the requirement means tackling many different research projects over a period of time. My case study originated in client work.

If you are serious about genealogical research, certification is an excellent way to demonstrate that your methods and skills meet rigorous standards.

I am still waiting to receive the judges’ comments. When I do, I will write about what I did well and where I fell short.