Underused Sources for Family Photos

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Underused Sources for Family Photos

Genealogy researchers uncover many facts about their ancestors. But they may still wonder what a particular ancestor looked like. Perhaps the burning question on a researcher’s mind is, “Do I look like my ancestors?”

In either case, the question that follows is “Is it possible to find a photograph of my ancestors—even when I’m not sure they exist?” You may not currently have older family photographs, but they may still have been created and survive somewhere today.

In a recent issue of Family Tree Magazine, writer Lisa Lisson shared often-overlooked sources to consult when your family and home sources come up empty.

Here's a preview of what our readers found

so useful in the article!

Family Bibles and Books

Like us, our ancestors had books that held a special meaning for the family. In fact, family Bibles may have been the default repository for their family history information. Check among book pages for photos and other family ephemera tucked in a book’s pages. (And make sure to preserve any photos or documents you find in a more suitable place!)

Baby and Wedding Albums

It’s no surprise that families curated photos into albums. But those surrounding two specific events—a child’s birth and a couple’s wedding—are among the most common and enduring. Family celebrations like these often bring together family members (even very distant ones) who might otherwise not see each other often, so be sure to ask around about these items in particular.

Vertical Files at Libraries and Archives

We usually associate libraries and archives with books and genealogical records, respectively. But they often also hold other resources (some of them unindexed or not listed in archives) that are valuable to genealogy research. Examples include donations from other researchers, newspaper clippings, cemetery transcriptions—and local family photos. Visit the institution in person to see where such materials are held, or contact staff to have a search performed remotely.

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Passport Applications

Like us, our ancestors traveled both for vacation and to start a new life in another country. Depending on the destination, they may have been required to hold a passport. Applications for these (found on major genealogy sites) contain a written description of the applicant, plus—in a rarity for records—a photograph. The photograph may not be of the best quality, but the written description can fill in any gaps using details on the individual’s hair color, eye color and stature.

County Histories

Many counties have written accounts of their history and citizens, often including photos of the relevant people and communities submitted by longtime residents of the county or their descendants. Local historical societies are often involved, and state or local libraries likely have copies of printed histories. You can also search for published county and regional histories at libraries worldwide using WorldCat.

Family Friends

Your ancestors were not isolated—they interacted with friends and their communities. So as cameras became more affordable for the general population in the early 20th century, more and more people were able to take and share photos not just with family, but also friends. Check with the descendants of your ancestor’s friends to see if they have photos of your ancestor. You may just find wonderful candid shots, like the one at left of my great-grandmother and her friend Nannie Lee Farson that was held by one of Nannie’s descendants.

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Local Newspapers

You’re likely already using historical newspapers to keep tabs on your ancestor’s community and find notices such as obituaries and wedding announcements. But don’t forget to look for photos, too, particularly in small community papers. Not all of these highly localized titles have been digitized, and they’re more likely to contain photos of and news about residents and local civic groups. Ask local librarians about what contemporary newspapers are still only available on microfilm or in print.

History Museums

These organizations are charged with curating artifacts that document the community’s history and educate the public. Many of their collections include photos of the community and its citizens, so watch for exhibits that cover your ancestor’s time in history, occupation, or causes (such as women’s suffrage). View the exhibit as it goes on display, but also reach out to its curators to see if they have additional information or photographs that weren’t on display. They might also know of other resources you can consult.

Tombstones

Yes, some tombstones include photos! Though rare, tombstone photos can offer a glimpse into your ancestor’s past. Users at FindaGrave and BillionGraves have photographed millions of tombstones, but you’ll want to see any gravestones (including the photos on them) in person if you can.

What do you think of these tips so far?

The search for family photos can be daunting when you run out of places to search at home. The team at Family Tree Magazine has faced the same challenges and want to help you on your research journey. That's why they publish articles like these that have a practical purpose in today's research landscape.

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