The Thompson Family Tree and Genealogy

I. The Thompson Family Tree

It is quite possible that someone else has already performed work on a Thompson family tree, so be sure to examine some of the sources listed below carefully. Have you struck a Thompson brick wall? Read "Schools Records Can Reveal A Lot About Ancestors" for some helpful advice.

Patronymics is the practice of naming children using the given name (sometimes in a contracted form) of the father, grandfather, or other male ancestor followed by a suffix. In the case of Thompson, it is possible that one of your English ancestors was given the patronym for being the "son of Thomas." Please read "Patronymics and Other Naming Patterns" and "Patronymics: Help Not Hindrance," for further details.

II. Thompson Genealogy

Many things can go wrong when a record collection is indexed. If you're having diffculty finding Thompson ancestors in a particular database at one site, try finding it on another and compare the results. If you want to know How do I find my Thompson family in the census?, then read this frequently asked question.

Historical newspapers give us the ability to discover ancestral history through eyewitness accounts. There are currently matching Thompson records at Ancestry.com! Start exploring this online Thompson family history resource today.

Death Records

Military Records

III. Origins of the Thompson Surname

It is quite possible for two people with the Thompson last name to have been given that surname for entirely different reasons. Discovering the country from which your Thompson ancestors originated can often yield additional clues for the meaning of the surname. Were you aware that Thompson is a common Irish surname? The article "The Luck of the Irish Research" 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. Thompson DNA Projects

While DNA testing cannot conclusively tell you if two Thompson 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 are seeking an answer to the question, How do I know which DNA test is right for Thompson research?, then this FAQ may help.

V. Thompson Family History

Every family has a different history, and every document you discover about your Thompson 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 "Placing Ancestors Into History Through Fraternal Organizations" may help you think of some different tactics to compiling your Thompson family history.

Photo Collections

VI. Networking with Thompson 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 "Looking for John Smith - Focusing a Query" provides some valuable tips for posting successful Thompson queries.

VII. Thompson Achievements & Celebrities

VIII. Web Sites & Blogs with Thompson Research

If you are having difficulty locating records for the last name of Thompson, 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 Thompson 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 "Thompson 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 Thompson reunion.

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