How an AGRA researcher can help you

For many people, tracing their family tree begins with a few simple questions.

• Who were my ancestors?
• Where did they come from?
• What stories have been forgotten over time?

And thanks to the wealth of online records, DNA testing and genealogy websites, you could be forgiven for thinking family history is a relatively straightforward pursuit that can be done, and completed, from the comfort of your own home. 

But it isn’t quite as simple as that, as Sarah Pettyfer, Chair of the Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives (AGRA), explains.

‘Researching your family history is not as easy as it may appear from the popular television programmes,’ she says, ‘and brick walls are more common that one might think! Not all our ancestors complied with the paperwork, and not all may be found where we think they should be!’

Founded in 1968, AGRA is the leading professional body representing independent genealogists and researchers across England and Wales and so Sarah, and her fellow researchers, have plenty of advice and experience to share with beginners.

For Sarah, there are a number of pitfalls those new to the hobby need to avoid, including:

• believing everything other online trees might tell you (‘always check where they have got information from, is it corroborated with documents?’)
• having tunnel vision and an eagerness to prove what could actually be a family myth (‘you need to be open-minded,’ she advises, ‘you never know what you might find out and never assume what you are told is correct!’)
• and making sure you really understand the records you are using and what they are telling you.

Negotiate these potential obstacles and you’ll be well on your way to growing your family tree, but naturally there will be bumps in the road that may leave you puzzled, and that’s where using a professional can really help. According to Sarah, hiring a professional can save you time and allow you to tap into specialist knowledge that’s not immediately available online.

‘We would generally suggest instructing an AGRA member if you have hit a brick wall,’ Sarah says. ‘Or if you want to discover your family history, but don’t have the time to do the research yourself.’

Professional researchers can also remove much of the confusion and time involved in visiting archives, Sarah explains.

‘AGRA genealogists are generally regular visitors to archives so understand how to search catalogues.’ With this expert help you’re more likely to uncover what might otherwise be missed, particularly when specialist knowledge of a location, historical period or record type is required.

What happens when you hire a researcher?

Whether it’s handing over a major family history project or simply getting advice on a tricky research puzzle, seeking professional help is sometimes the best step forward. By choosing a member of AGRA, you can be assured that the researcher has the necessary qualifications and experience to handle your case properly.

As their online guide to choosing a AGRA genealogist explains: ‘All AGRA Members and Associates are committed to delivering the highest standards of research, backed by our professional Code of Practice, offering clients both quality assurance and peace of mind.’

So once you’ve made the decision to hire a researcher, how does the process work? ‘Each AGRA researcher will have their own approach,’ Sarah tells us, ‘but in general terms, they should ensure they understand exactly what research the client wants undertaking and confirm their understanding and details of the proposed research in writing, along with any terms and conditions including their fee and fee structure.

‘They should ask for details of research which has already been undertaken/what is already known to ensure they are not undertaking any repetitive or unnecessary research. They may, however, want to spend a short time checking the previous research to ensure they are on the correct path. They should also provide a time estimate of when the research will be conducted and how their findings will be reported back to them.’

Having a professional on the case can be an exciting way to boost your family history, and there’s nothing stopping you continuing your own research, perhaps on a different branch of your tree. Of course, the results can really vary, but even if your brick wall is not completely smashed, you’ll receive a detailed report on the findings, as Sarah explains. 

‘Regardless of whether the research is successful or not the genealogist should provide a report detailing all searches carried out and all findings whether positive or negative. Reports should be fully referenced to ensure all records can be easily identified and anyone should be able to pick up the report, follow the research process undertaken and be able to locate any records referred to. Copies of records may be provided subject to copyright.’

Family historians quickly learn that accuracy is key to building an accurate picture of the past; it’s so much more than collecting names from other people’s trees. That’s why careful, evidence-based research remains so important. ‘It is always recommended that at least two, preferably three or more, pieces of evidence are found to confirm a fact,’ Sarah advises. ‘And always ensure you have records to confirm facts, do not just copy hints and information from another tree.’ 

With expert guidance, access to specialist knowledge and a commitment to professional standards, AGRA researchers can help ensure your family history journey is not only easier and less overwhelming, but ultimately more accurate and rewarding too.

About AGRA

AGRA was founded in 1968 to maintain and promote high professional standards in the field of genealogy and historical research, and remains the professional body that all can rely upon for excellence. AGRA is also prominent as a representative voice in matters relating to genealogy. 

All Members and Associates agree to abide by a stringent Code of Practice and Ethics and AGRA welcomes those who can attain and maintain the highest standards. There is also an arbitration system in the unlikely event of a complaint, thus safeguarding AGRA researchers and their clients.