Frequently Asked Questions

 

How do I get started?:

I am new to genealogy and would like to know where to get started in Chelan County?

We would suggest that you explore the Resources tab where you will find many links to local genealogy and other sites for beginners. Also, just as important, you should consider posting a query on a genealogy forum and/or join an email list and ask questions about your ancestors there. It has been my experience that the more places you ask the question, the better your chances of getting an answer.

 

Basic Questions:

I don't see a specific church or cemetery I'm looking for on your site.

If you do not see additional information, no one has sent that information to me to post.

The pictures are so tiny, I can't see them.

They are "thumbnail" pictures. Click on the picture for a larger view.

How do I submit information to you?

We would be pleased to accept and post your family history information. You can type the information in an email to us or attach a document (.doc, .jpg, .txt, etc.) to the email. Every little bit is appreciated. At the bottom of any page you will see Contact Info. Click on the County Coordinator's name to send an email.

 

Information and records for specific people:

I am looking for information about a specific person or record.

Unfortunately, if you don't see it on the site then we don't have information about it. We do not live in this county and cannot provide local research. We do provide links to online resources and we do depend on interested and generous folks, like you, to send us the information they already have collected about their family history for posting on this site. If you live in Chelan County and can do local research, consider volunteering to help by using the Contact Info at the bottom of any page.

Can you send me a marriage license (or birth certificate, death certificate, court document) for my ancestor?

I'm sorry, but we do not have access to additional records. In most cases, you will need to check with the county courthouse in order to obtain original documents. You can find contact information on the Resources page.

Can you look some information up for me?

If it's not on the site then we likely don't have the resource. Your best bet would be to ask on a forum or email list (see queries). There are many people subscribed and it's possible someone has that resource available. You could also write or call the Library on the Resources page.

Suggestions for researching your ancestors:

Start by building your family tree with what you already know. If you can't or don't want to subscribe to one of the online family tree sites, such as https://www.ancestry.com or MyHeritage.com, download a free family tree software program to start and grow your tree. Brother's Keeper offers a free trial version (for PC, not MAC) of their software. RootsMagic Essentials is a free genealogical program with many core features of their family tree software. Ancestral Quest Basics is available for PC and MAC. Gramps offers a free PC or MAC software to help you research, organize and share your family tree. Legacy Family Tree Standard is free for PC but can be run on a MAC. For available commercial genealogy software there are many affordable options. Register for a free familysearch.org account and search there for free online records.