The Garfield Genealogy and Family Tree Page

The Garfield Family Tree

It is important to remember that there is no single Garfield 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 Garfield family members? and you might be surprised at the answer.

Best Tree Collections for Discovering Garfield Ancestors

Garfield Genealogy

Keep an open mind when searching through Garfield 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 city directories be used to help my Garfield research?, then read this frequently asked question.

Top Five Genealogy Databases to Search for Garfield

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

Death Records

Military Records

Origins of the Garfield 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 Garfield surname. Keep in mind that it was not unusual for a last name to be altered as an ancestor entered a new country.

Garfield DNA Projects

Don't believe the hype! When DNA testing was first made available for genealogical purposes, some companies boasted how it could solve all your Garfield family tree mysteries. DNA testing can be a useful tool, when applied properly to a given research issue. If you're not sure how DNA testing could aid your Garfield research, read "When do you use DNA?".

Garfield Family History

For most people, just about every aspect of their life has been influenced in some way by their ancestors. Look beyond the names and dates to understand how and why your Garfield ancestors lived and strived to make a better life for their descendants. Our team of seasoned experts are here to help you learn about different aspects of genealogy. Reading "Our Ancestors Paid Taxes" may help you think of some different tactics to compiling your Garfield family history.

Photo Collections

Networking with Garfield 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 "Are Your Queries Getting Results?" provides some valuable tips for posting successful Garfield queries.

Garfield Achievements & Celebrities

Did you know that Garfield was the 6038th most popular surname in the 1990 census of the United States?

Web Sites & Blogs with Garfield Research

If you are having difficulty locating records for the last name of Garfield, 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

Upcoming Garfield 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 "Garfield 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 Garfield reunion.

See Also

Garfiel