The Lewis Family Tree and Genealogy

I. The Lewis Family Tree

Everyone has different reasons for building a family tree; your personal motiviation will influence whether the Lewis family tree has more depth or breadth. Have you struck a Lewis brick wall? Read "Efficient and Effective Research Tips" for some helpful advice.

II. Lewis Genealogy

Keep an open mind when searching through Lewis records. Years ago many people were unable to read and write, thus a given ancestor's name could be spelled in a variety of ways depending on who recorded it. If you want to know How can I locate old newspapers for Lewis research?, then read this frequently asked question.

Census records are among the most useful records available for family tree building. There are currently matching Lewis records at Ancestry.com! Start exploring this online Lewis family history resource today.

Death Records

Military Records

III. Origins of the Lewis Surname

While some countries have limited historical records for last name assignments, you are most likely to only find general guidance on the origin and meaning of the Lewis surname. Were you aware that Lewis is considered a very common surname, which offers its own set of challenges? The article "Researching Common Names" 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. Lewis DNA Projects

While DNA testing cannot conclusively tell you if two Lewis 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 Lewis research, read "DNA Research and Your Family's History".

V. Lewis Family History

Every family has a different history, and every document you discover about your Lewis 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 Lewis family history.

Photo Collections

VI. Networking with Lewis Researchers

When it comes families and genealogy research, it's important to remember that different people may have different information: some may even have inherited one-of-a-kind family documents or photos, and the best way to connect with these family members is by posting a message board query -- often in the process of collaboration, you can build a more complete picture of your ancestor or ancestral family. The article "Are Your Queries Getting Results?" provides some valuable tips for posting successful Lewis queries.

VII. Lewis Achievements & Celebrities

VIII. Web Sites & Blogs with Lewis Research

If you are having difficulty locating records for the last name of Lewis, 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 Lewis Family Reunions

Pedigree charts and family group records are important genealogical tools, so bringing or creating on site a big family pedigree (or family tree) is sure to draw attention; at the same time, have plenty of blank family group sheets available for individual families to complete and submit to go into a "Lewis family record book," which you can then digitize and share -- you can then bring the physical book back to the next reunion, adding new families each time. The article "Family Reunions Don't Always Turn Out as one has Pictured" may provide you with tips for hosting a successful Lewis reunion.

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