Welcome to the Washington Family page at Surname Finder, a service of Genealogy Today. Our editors have compiled this checklist of genealogical resources, combining links to commercial databases along with user-contributed information and web sites for the Washington surname. As additional sources for vital records, original documents, vintage photographs and surname-based DNA projects are discovered, this page is updated to offer the best list for researching Washington ancestry. Share this page on Twitter!
Completed by on
The Washington Family Tree
It is quite possible that someone else has already performed work on a Washington family tree, so be sure to examine some of the sources listed below carefully. Have you struck a Washington brick wall? Read "Soundex Sorts Out Family Names" for some helpful advice.
Best Tree Collections for Discovering Washington Ancestors
Washington Genealogy
Keep an open mind when searching through Washington 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 Washington research?, then read this frequently asked question.
Top Five Genealogy Databases to Search for Washington
Historical newspapers give us the ability to discover ancestral history through eyewitness accounts.
There are currently matching Washington records at Ancestry.com!
Start exploring this online Washington family history resource today.
Death Records
Military Records
Origins of the Washington 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 Washington surname. Were you aware that Washington 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.
Washington DNA Projects
While DNA testing cannot conclusively tell you if two Washington 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 Washington research, read "Basics of DNA Family History Research".
Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington family history.
Photo Collections
Networking with Washington 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 Washington queries.
You may also want to consider posting a query to the Community Message Boards at Genealogy Today to get assistance from other researchers on your most elusive Washington ancestors.
Washington Achievements & Celebrities
Did you know that Washington was the 90th most popular surname in the 1990 census of the United States?
Web Sites & Blogs with Washington Research
If you are having difficulty locating records for the last name of Washington, 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
To recommend your web site/blog for inclusion on this page, please submit a link to the user-contributed directory at Genealogy Today. Your web page may appear once its content has been reviewed by our editors.
Recently Discovered WASHINGTON Clippings and Mentions
Upcoming Washington Family Reunions
One key to a successful Washington reunion is preparation, and for the family researcher that means getting the word out in advance on what to bring (such as the family photo collection); arranging for the display of shared information; and planning activities conducive to sharing; and one of the best ways to get others to participate is in bringing something of your own to share such a picture pedigree, compiled family history or biographical sketch, or even a copies of a treasured photo as a gift for each family -- you may even want to consider putting together a reunion newsletter in advance to be distributed at the reunion, asking for help in solving one or more specific family mysteries: you never know who might have insight they are willing to share, one-on-one. The article "Reunions: Beyond Aunt Pat's Rhubarb Pie and Aunt Edna's Wet Kisses" may provide you with tips for hosting a successful Washington reunion.
See Also
Surname Finder, The Washington Genealogy and Family Tree Page [on-line resource], New Providence, NJ, USA: Genealogy Today LLC, 2023.
