Strategy: Prison RecordsBy Dale E. Lee and AI2025.06.04 Prison Records An often overlooked source of genealogical research is prison records. If your ancestor was incarcerated, these records can yield personal details, reasons for imprisonment, and even release dates, offering additional clues about their past. What Are Prison Records? Prison records are official documents maintained by correctional institutions, detailing the incarceration of individuals. These records can include arrest records, trial transcripts, sentencing details, and release documents. Depending on the time period and jurisdiction, they may also include: These documents not only provide insight into an individual’s legal troubles but also help […]
Family History
2025.05.28 – Strategy: Local Militia Rolls
Strategy: Local Militia RollsBy Dale E. Lee and AI2025.05.28 Local Militia Rolls One underutilized genealogical resource is local militia rolls. Before the establishment of standing armies, many men served in local militias, and these records can reveal not only personal details but also connections to others within their communities. What Are Local Militia Rolls? Local militia rolls were rosters of men eligible or required to serve in community-based military organizations. Unlike regular army enlistments, militia service was typically part-time and often compulsory for able-bodied men of certain age groups. These militias were responsible for local defense, law enforcement, and emergency […]