Find Your American Ancestor Using Canadian Records
Summary DetailsLength: 60 minutes
Audience Level: Beginner -Expert
Requirements: Projection for computer on a large screen; internet connection
Content: 4-page PDF handout
Summary: Think your ancestors were never in Canada? Think again. Many Americans and immigrants crossed the border in search of land, work, refuge, or military service. Learn how to trace births, marriages, deaths, and migrations in Canada, and discover records that reveal overlooked chapters in your family’s history.
Description: Even if your family never mentioned Canada, your ancestors may have crossed the border for reasons you’ve never imagined. This presentation explores the various circumstances that brought Americans and immigrants to Canada, including entry through Canadian ports, land acquisition, and migration enroute to the United States. Others experienced life events in Canada, such as births, marriages, or deaths or came seeking employment, visiting relatives, or escaping poverty and persecution. Canada was also a refuge for freedom seekers via the Underground Railroad and a place where Americans enlisted during the world wars. Discover records and strategies to uncover these overlooked stories.
Outline
Explore the many reasons why American and immigrant ancestors may have been in Canada, even if family stories suggest otherwise. Beginning with immigration records, many newcomers to the United States first arrived through Canadian ports of entry before travelling south. Land records provide another important avenue, as generous Canadian land policies attracted settlers from across the border. Migration patterns reveal how ancestors frequently travelled through Canada enroute to American destinations, leaving behind valuable clues.
Discover vital events such as births, marriages, and deaths that may have occurred in Canada, as well as employment opportunities and family visits that led to temporary cross-border stays. For others, Canada offered refuge from poverty, persecution, or enslavement, with the Underground Railroad bringing freedom seekers to Canadian soil. Finally, military service records demonstrate how thousands of Americans enlisted in the Canadian forces during the world wars. Strategies for identifying records, interpreting evidence, and uncovering surprising connections will be discussed.
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