The McGynness Family Tree and Genealogy

I. The McGynness Family Tree

It is important to remember that there is no single McGynness family tree, as last names were assigned to people for various reasons. We are often asked, Where do I go to find birth, marriage, and death records for McGynness family members? and you might be surprised at the answer.

II. McGynness Genealogy

Keep an open mind when searching through McGynness 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. Genealogy is more than just searching through databases. Articles like "Practical Advise for Researching Immigrants" can help accelerate your McGynness research.

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 McGynness records at Ancestry.com! Start exploring this online McGynness family history resource today.

Death Records

Military Records

III. Origins of the McGynness Surname

It is quite possible for two people with the McGynness last name to have been given that surname for entirely different reasons. Discovering the country from which your McGynness ancestors originated can often yield additional clues for the meaning of the surname. Keep in mind that it was not unusual for a last name to be altered as an ancestor entered a new country.

IV. McGynness DNA Projects

While DNA testing cannot conclusively tell you if two McGynness 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 McGynness research, read "Basics of DNA Family History Research".

V. McGynness Family History

There is more to exploring your McGynness ancestry than just gathering a bunch of names and dates. Understanding where your ancestors lived, how they were employed, and what they did for fun, may give you a better appreciation of your heritage. Whether you are a beginner or expert genealogists, knowing Where can I find a biography of my McGynness ancestor? is always useful.

Photo Collections

VI. Networking with McGynness Researchers

In the course of genealogy research, collaboration is key -- we really cannot do it alone, and one of the great benefits of participating in community message boards is building relationships that not only enlightens our research but strengthens bonds across the miles. The article "Looking for John Smith - Focusing a Query" provides some valuable tips for posting successful McGynness queries.

VII. McGynness Achievements & Celebrities

VIII. Web Sites & Blogs with McGynness Research

If you are having difficulty locating records for the last name of McGynness, 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 McGynness 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 "McGynness 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 "Reunions: Beyond Aunt Pat's Rhubarb Pie and Aunt Edna's Wet Kisses" may provide you with tips for hosting a successful McGynness reunion.

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