A customer at the library is interested in researching her family history. Where is a good place to get started researching Maryland genealogy?

There are some basic sources and databases that will help point a customer in the right direction in researching their Maryland family history. But before you jump in, you need to ask three basic questions. They are:

1. What time period are you interested in?
If the customer wants to know if their ancestor arrived with the first Maryland settlers on the Ark and Dove in 1634, then there is no reason to look at the U.S. Census which began in 1790. You first need to establish the time period before you can direct them to an appropriate source.

2. Which county or region of Maryland are you searching?
The volume of information varies greatly by county. Some have quite a bit, others very little. Establishing the county or area they’re focusing on can help identify where you need to refer. At the very least you can recommend a genealogical or historical society in the county of interest.

3. Where have you already searched?
This is important in establishing whether you have a novice in front of you or someone who is well beyond your expertise. In addition, you don’t want to reinvent the wheel, that is, show them sources that they have already searched.

If the customer is beginning or looking for a place to start your best bet are census records. U.S. Census enumerations are easily available to anyone in the state on HeritageQuest. HeritageQuest can be accessed through most county library systems or via Sailor. You may also be able to find census records online through Ancestry Library Edition. Ancestry is usually only available within the library, so check your system’s database list.

However, the latest census enumerations are from 1930. What if you need something later?

At SLRC, we have done a lot of work with finding aids and how-to and subject guides for genealogy. The best starting point for Maryland genealogy is Starting Your Own Genealogical Research, which is part of the Genealogy subject guide produced by the Maryland Department at SLRC. Don’t forget to search the catalog at SLRC for the type of record. You only need type in the keyword (e.g., death, for death notices), county (e.g., Frederick) and limit the library to Maryland Department. If you find something, contact the department to have them check the source and get you the information if appropriate.

If the customer, or you, still needs assistance contact the Maryland Department at SLRC.