The Evans Family Tree and Genealogy

I. The Evans Family Tree

It is important to remember that there is no single Evans family tree, as last names were assigned to people for various reasons. We are often asked, How do you find out if two people named Evans are related? and you might be surprised at the answer.

Best Tree Collections for Discovering Evans Ancestors

II. Evans Genealogy

Sometimes two people can look at the same handwritten record, and come up with different spellings of the name. Be creative when searching for your Evans ancestors -- we often search for misspellings intentionally to see if we missed any records. Genealogy is more than just searching through databases. Articles like "Finding Ancestors in County Court Minutes" can help accelerate your Evans research.

Top Five Genealogy Databases to Search for Evans

Vital records are essential for family history research because they were typically created at or near the time of the event, making the record more reliable. There are currently matching Evans records at Ancestry.com! Start exploring this online Evans family history resource today.

Death Records

Military Records

III. Origins of the Evans Surname

There are no clear, concise answers to why or how one of your Evans ancestors took on the surname. It may have been based on their occupation or a distinguising physical trait. Were you aware that Evans is a common Quaker surname? The article "Tracing Quaker Ancestors" may be helpful for your research. Keep in mind that it was not unusual for a last name to be altered as an ancestor entered a new country.

IV. Evans DNA Projects

While DNA testing cannot conclusively tell you if two Evans ancestors were related, it can easily prove if they weren't. Be sure you understand what types of research issues each different DNA test can address before you spend any money. If you're not sure how DNA testing could aid your Evans research, read "Basics of DNA Family History Research".

V. Evans Family History

Every family has a different history, and every document you discover about your Evans ancestors will help paint a picture that can be shared with your relatives. Our team of seasoned experts are here to help you learn about different aspects of genealogy. Reading "Faddish First Names" may help you think of some different tactics to compiling your Evans family history.

Photo Collections

VI. Networking with Evans Researchers

If you are doing genealogy research in a particular town or region distant from where you live, you may want to consider posting a message board query requesting a lookup; often local volunteers or residents are willing to lend a hand, but remember to be specific in your request and be respectful of others' time. The article "The Art of Posting Queries" provides some valuable tips for posting successful Evans queries.

VII. Evans Achievements & Celebrities

VIII. Web Sites & Blogs with Evans Research

If you are having difficulty locating records for the last name of Evans, contact the folks at ProGenealogists for a free research estimate. You may also find it helpful to read, "When, Why and How to Hire a Professional Genealogist."

RootsWeb search of US Naturalization Records
RootsWeb search of Obituary Daily Times
RootsWeb search of Social Security Death Index

IX. Upcoming Evans Family Reunions

Whenever possible, consider holding the family reunion in place where you have a strong Evans family history, which provides opportunities to share stories and visit cemeteries or old home sites; you may even want to consider as a one-day activity, having each family take on the task of gathering information from the local courthouse, school district, public library, etc. -- this, of course, requires advance planning and assignment, but could generate considerable interest and results. The article "A Great Way to Unite a Newly-Found Family" may provide you with tips for hosting a successful Evans reunion.

Source:
Surname Finder, Evans Surname Checklist [on-line resource], New Providence, NJ, USA: Genealogy Today LLC, 1998-2013.