Genealogy queries are an effective way to find others who are researching the same family names you are and to share information with them. A query is basically an advertisement for contact with anyone searching for the same or related ancestors. Queries may be submitted to genealogy magazines, newspapers, or Web sites.

Creating a productive query is a simple process if you keep a few specific requirements in mind when submitting your query. The Query Entry Form has been designed to make the most effective use of your search time.

Surname (Required)
The primary method of searching queries is by surname. One, and only one, surname, not a given name, first or middle, should be entered in the Surname Only box.

Additional Surnames
If you believe responses to your query would be more focused by supplying a closely related line, enter additional surnames.

Country (Required)
Select any one of the countries listed. American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, the Marianna Islands, Puerto Rico and Guam are included with the United States.

Locality (Required)
One locality is required. If another area could be useful in narrowing the locales of your relative enter one or two more. For example, if your Smith ancestors first lived in New York and then moved to Vermont, select New York and Vermont.

Your Query
To avoid false leads and other unuseful responses, it is best to restrict your query to a single family and be very specific about the information you need. Do not include your email address, homepage URL, street address or telephone number in the text of your online query. A successful genealogy query might look like this:

Searching for parents of Alexander Martin, born about 1875, married Stella Anderson, had daughter, Philicia, born 12 Aug 1897.

First Steps Free Genealogy Toolkit