The Wilson Genealogy and Family Tree Page

The Wilson Family Tree

It is quite possible that someone else has already performed work on a Wilson family tree, so be sure to examine some of the sources listed below carefully. Have you struck a Wilson brick wall? Read "Soundex Sorts Out Family Names" for some helpful advice.

Best Tree Collections for Discovering Wilson Ancestors

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 Wilson, it is possible that one of your English ancestors was given the patronym for being the "son of William." Please read "Patronymics and Other Naming Patterns" and "Patronymics: Help Not Hindrance," for further details.

Wilson Genealogy

Many things can go wrong when a record collection is indexed. If you're having diffculty finding Wilson ancestors in a particular database at one site, try finding it on another and compare the results. If you want to know Was my Wilson ancestor was married more than once?, then read this frequently asked question.

Top Five Genealogy Databases to Search for Wilson

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

Death Records

Military Records

Origins of the Wilson Surname

It is quite possible for two people with the Wilson last name to have been given that surname for entirely different reasons. Discovering the country from which your Wilson ancestors originated can often yield additional clues for the meaning of the surname. Were you aware that Wilson 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.

Wilson DNA Projects

DNA testing for genealogy continues to improve. If you had some of your Wilson 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 are seeking an answer to the question, How do I know which DNA test is right for Wilson research?, then this FAQ may help.

Wilson 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 Wilson 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 "Learning About Women - The Invisible Ancestors" may help you think of some different tactics to compiling your Wilson family history.

Photo Collections

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

Wilson Achievements & Celebrities

Did you know that Wilson was the 8th most popular surname in the 1990 census of the United States?

Web Sites & Blogs with Wilson Research

If you are having difficulty locating records for the last name of Wilson, 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 WILSON Clippings and Mentions

Upcoming Wilson Family Reunions

One key to a successful Wilson 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 "Planning Details For A Family Reunion" may provide you with tips for hosting a successful Wilson reunion.

See Also

Wilsom   Whilson   Wilsen   Wilsohn   Wilsono   Wilso   McWilson   Wils