How long will it take?
This is dependent on a number of factors e.g. whether we are pursuing one family line, how far you wish to go back etc. However, for a fairly straightforward history researching one family line back to the early 1800s would normally take around 4-6 weeks (allowing time to get copies of certificates etc). Remember that regular updates can be provided throughout that time if required.
It should be noted that family history can be a very time consuming affair, especially when records are difficult to read. Therefore the more you wish to find out and the further you want to go back the more time and effort is likely to be needed.
Do you always get results?
In rare cases it is difficult to even get started. For example where the name is very common, and insufficient details are known to identify the correct person with any certainty. However, our experience over the years has given us a number of ways to help overcome such hurdles and we have often had success where others have failed.
It should also be noted that historical records have sometimes been destroyed, lost or have been rendered illegible and that even with the best of efforts it is not possible to find the information that is being sought.
At the outset we will require as much information as you can give. This will allow us to undertake a preliminary assessment free of charge. Only if we think we can progress your enquiry we will take on the assignment. If though, despite our best endeavours, we cannot make progress we will tell you as soon as it is apparent so that you will not incur any more charges than is necessary.
How far can I go back?
In most cases census returns and civil registration records make is possible to trace most families back to the early 1800s. Using parish registers and other records it is often possible to go back another century or two, but this is dependent on a number of things such as: knowing the parish of origin, families staying in the locality (or knowing where/when they moved); no name changes; events being recorded; or the required records surviving.
The Anglican Church began keeping records of baptisms, marriages and burials in 1538 in England and Wales so it is theoretically possible to get back to that date, however this happens rarely as early records are patchy, often illegible, or have not survived. If you are fortunate to be from a titled family it is possible to get back even further.
It should be noted that family history can be a very time consuming affair, especially when records are difficult to read. Therefore the more you wish to find out and the further you want to go back the more time and effort is likely to be needed.
What format is the CD supplied in?
At the end of the assignment you will receive a package of findings see What You Will Get, including (for a £10 charge) a CD which will allow you to import the data into most family tree software packages. This CD will be in GEDCOM format.
GEDCOM, an acronym for GEnealogical Data COMmunications and is a file format specification that allows different genealogical software programs to share data with each other. It was developed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to provide a flexible, uniform format for exchanging computerised genealogical data. It is supported by most genealogical software products e.g. Family Tree Maker etc.
What is PayPal?
PayPal is a recognised safe, easy way to pay using a debit or credit card. Payments are sent on-line without revealing your card number to the receiver, i.e. we only see your e-mail address. PayPal is free to those sending the payment.
We only accept payment in pounds sterling; therefore this option should be selected from the drop down currency menu. Your credit or debit card provider will apply their usual conversion rate.
If required we can take a PayPal payment by phone – this includes a bank transfer option as well as the debit and credit card options. To use this option please contact us at enquiries at englishrootsfinder dot com
Any Other Questions?
If you have any other questions please do not hesitate to Contact Us.
