The Harris Genealogy and Family Tree Page

The Harris Family Tree

Everyone has different reasons for building a family tree; your personal motiviation will influence whether the Harris family tree has more depth or breadth. Have you struck a Harris brick wall? Read "Caring for your Ancestors" for some helpful advice.

Best Tree Collections for Discovering Harris Ancestors

Harris Genealogy

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

Top Five Genealogy Databases to Search for Harris

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

Death Records

Military Records

Origins of the Harris 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 Harris surname. Were you aware that Harris 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.

Harris DNA Projects

DNA testing for genealogy continues to improve. If you had some of your Harris relatives tested several years ago, it may be worthwhile to have them retested. Likewise, as DNA testing companies have gathered more results and samples, you may be able to find more matches if you search again with your test results. If you're not sure how DNA testing could aid your Harris research, read "When do you use DNA?".

Harris 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 Harris 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 Harris family history.

Photo Collections

Networking with Harris Researchers

When digging deeper into your ancestor's occupation, a great way to connect with others of a similar interest -- many who might have detailed information, is by posting a message board query giving clear information as to your ancestor's name and the specific occupation or organization, in time and place. The article "Are Your Queries Getting Results?" provides some valuable tips for posting successful Harris queries.

Harris Achievements & Celebrities

Did you know that Harris was the 15th most popular surname in the 1990 census of the United States?

Web Sites & Blogs with Harris Research

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

Recently Discovered HARRIS Clippings and Mentions

Upcoming Harris 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 "Harris 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 Harris reunion.

See Also

Haris   Harric   Horris   Harriso   Harri   Hari   Harry   Horri   Harra   Harri   Harro   Harru   McHarris   Arris