The Vandebourgh Family Tree and Genealogy

I. The Vandebourgh Family Tree

It is important to remember that there is no single Vandebourgh family tree, as last names were assigned to people for various reasons. We are often asked, How do I begin my Vandebourgh family tree? and you might be surprised at the answer.

II. Vandebourgh Genealogy

Keep an open mind when searching through Vandebourgh 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 Vandebourgh research?, then read this frequently asked question.

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

Death Records

Military Records

III. Origins of the Vandebourgh Surname

There are no clear, concise answers to why or how one of your Vandebourgh ancestors took on the surname. It may have been based on their occupation or a distinguising physical trait. Keep in mind that it was not unusual for a last name to be altered as an ancestor entered a new country.

IV. Vandebourgh DNA Projects

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

V. Vandebourgh Family History

Every family has a different history, and every document you discover about your Vandebourgh 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 "Orphans and Illegitimate Children" may help you think of some different tactics to compiling your Vandebourgh family history.

Photo Collections

VI. Networking with Vandebourgh 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 "The Art of Posting Queries" provides some valuable tips for posting successful Vandebourgh queries.

VII. Vandebourgh Achievements & Celebrities

VIII. Web Sites & Blogs with Vandebourgh Research

If you are having difficulty locating records for the last name of Vandebourgh, 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 Vandebourgh 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 "Vandebourgh 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 "A Great Way to Unite a Newly-Found Family" may provide you with tips for hosting a successful Vandebourgh reunion.

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