Collateral research is a powerful genealogical method that extends beyond direct ancestors to explore the broader family network. This presentation will show how examining collateral lines helps you find additional records, reconstruct family dynamics, and navigate challenges posed by missing direct ancestor documentation. This approach is particularly useful when primary records are scarce, offering contextual clues, migration patterns, and unexpected biographical details. Discovering these connections can transform fragmented family history into a rich and comprehensive narrative.

 

About the speaker:  Sandra Crowley is a genealogist, author, and lecturer who speaks at local, state, regional, and national events, including RootsTech. She currently serves as Director of Development for the Texas State Genealogical Society and co-editor of Stirpes, the Journal of the Texas State Genealogical Society. She has served in leadership roles for the Dallas Genealogical Society and the Mid-Cities Genealogical Society, including as  president of both organizations. Sandra is currently the Webinar Chair for the North Carolina Genealogical Society and the producer and editor for the NCGS Webinar Series and their spring Virtual Conference. She was recently honored as a Fellow of the Texas State Genealogical Society (FTxSGS).