Start with what you know

Before diving into archives and ancient documents, gather information that you and your family already have. Talk to relatives, especially those who may remember old stories or events related to your ancestors. Write down everything you learn: names, dates, birthplaces, jobs, and important events. Even small details can be helpful.

Make a family tree

Once you’ve gathered the basic information, try drawing your family tree. This will help you see who you have already been able to find and which branches need further research. You can use either manual methods (paper and pen) or specialized online services such as MyHeritage, Ancestry, or FamilySearch, which offer convenient tools for creating and storing your family tree.

Utilize online resources

There are many platforms and archives online to help you continue your search. Some offer free databases, while others offer paid databases. The most popular online resources for genealogy include:

• FamilySearch – A free platform with many historical records such as birth, marriage, death and census records.
• Ancestry – a site that provides access to a large number of archives and also has its own social network for finding relatives.
• Findmypast – particularly useful for finding British roots, provides access to censuses and many other documents.

Don’t forget about documents and archives

If online resources don’t give you the full picture, contact local archives. State archives, church archives, libraries and museums may contain documents that have not been digitized and are not available online. These include metric books, birth, marriage and death certificates, census lists, military records and many other important historical records.

Remember deduction and logic

Searching for ancestors is not always a simple linear endeavor. Sometimes information can be incomplete or contradictory. Use the deductive method to connect individual facts and draw logical conclusions. For example, if you find an ancestor’s death record, you can try to find information about his or her family through birth or marriage certificates.

Be patient

Searching for ancestors is a long process, and you can often run into difficulties: documents may be lost, information may be unavailable or contradictory. It is important not to lose patience. Remember that every small step along the way brings you closer to great discoveries.

Save all materials you find

It is important to save all documents, photographs and records that you find during your search. Not only does this help you in the future, but it can also become a valuable legacy for future generations. You can do this by creating digital copies or using specialized services to store and organize genealogical data.

Network with other researchers

Look for other families and researchers who may be related to your ancestors. There are forums, social media and specialized groups where people share their knowledge and findings. Working together can help you make a breakthrough in your search.

The post How to Start Ancestry Research: Tips for Beginners appeared first on KY Western History.

The founding of Livingston County

Livingston County was founded on December 13, 1798. It was named in honor of Robert R. Livingston, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and a prominent political figure. Robert R. Livingston had a huge influence on the development of the United States in the early years of its independence, in particular, serving as a minister in France, where he helped to realize the acquisition of Louisiana in 1803.

Geography and population

Livingston Parish has an area of 886,299 square kilometers, much of which is covered by water, including Lake Kentucky, which is a popular destination for recreation and leisure. According to the 2010 census, the county’s population was about 9,519. The majority of the county’s population is rural and engaged in agriculture, particularly corn and tobacco farming.

Famous families and historical figures

Among the families that have had a significant impact on the development of the county is the Livingston family, after whom the county was named. However, unlike some other counties, such as Livingston, there are no well-known political figures at the governor’s level in the history of this region that would have been as important to the state of Kentucky as they were in some other regions of the United States.

Culture and heritage

Today, Livingston County retains its agricultural heritage, but it is also developing in the direction of tourism and small businesses. Local communities are actively working to preserve historical sites, organizing festivals and cultural events that attract tourists and contribute to the economic development of the region. Kentucky Lake is an important tourist destination for those who enjoy fishing, water sports and outdoor recreation.

As such, Livingston County is a shining example of how history, culture, and families can influence the development and identity of a region while maintaining a connection between the past and the present.

The post Livingston County: From the Founding to the Present appeared first on KY Western History.

History of the memorial

The Livingston County Veterans Memorial was established in the mid-20th century as a place to honor those who gave their lives in various wars and conflicts. Funded by donations from local residents and veterans, the memorial has become a testament to the boundless respect for those who have served in the armed forces. The unveiling of the memorial was an important step in restoring the historical memory of Livingston County residents’ participation in major historical events such as World War II, the Vietnam War, and other conflicts that have left a mark on people’s hearts. The memorial not only commemorates the veterans’ participation in these events, but also serves as a place for generations to come to remember and pay tribute to the heroes.

The architecture of the memorial

The Livingston County Veterans Memorial stands out for its architectural simplicity and grandeur. The centerpiece of the memorial is a stone stele engraved with the names of all veterans from the county who died in combat. The names are inscribed on slabs, and each of these slabs is not only a tribute to an individual, but also a representation of the enormous sacrifice that each of them made for the good of others.

On either side of the stele are two large monuments – soldiers holding weapons in a symbolic gesture of readiness to fight. They symbolize the courage and indomitable spirit of the people who went to the front and returned with severe wounds or did not return at all. There are also decorative elements in the memorial area, such as an eternal flame that burns in memory of the fallen, and flower beds that create an atmosphere of peace and remembrance.

Significance to the community

The Livingston County Veterans Memorial serves not only a historical function, but is also important to the local community. It is a place where veterans and their families can gather for commemorative events such as hero appreciation days, memorial services, and a variety of cultural and educational activities aimed at preserving the memory of military events and their impact on the lives of local residents.

Every year on Veterans’ Day, November 11, the memorial becomes a venue for ceremonies where local residents, veterans, schoolchildren, and government officials gather to honor the heroism of their ancestors. Such events allow new generations not only to learn more about the heroes of the past, but also to feel the importance of supporting and respecting those who fought for freedom and independence.

The memorial as an educational resource

The memorial also serves as an educational resource for schools and educational institutions in the county. Students regularly visit the memorial to learn more about the history of their countrymen and the importance of military service. Through museum exhibits, informational panels, and themed tours, young people are given the opportunity to better understand not only local history, but also the overall history of the United States and the importance of national unity.

The current significance of the memorial

Today, the Livingston County Veterans Memorial remains an important place not only for veterans and their families, but for the entire community. It reminds us of the value of peace and independence provided by those who were willing to give everything for their country. The memorial is also a place for those who want to honor the memory of their loved ones who served in various military conflicts that were of great importance for the development of the country. Preserving the memory of those who gave their lives for their country is an important task for every generation. The Livingston County Veterans Memorial serves not only as a place of remembrance, but also as an important element in teaching future generations about the importance of service and commitment to their people and country.

The post Livingston County Veterans Memorial appeared first on KY Western History.

Archives

Archives are key places to find various documents that can reveal important facts about your ancestors. Kentucky has several archives that contain both public and private records.

The Kentucky State Archives is one of the largest archival resources in the state. It houses a variety of historical records including birth records, death records, marriage records, military records, census records, and many other important materials. The Kentucky Archives are available for research both in physical format and through online platforms. The archives website provides resources that can be researched remotely, including digital copies of censuses and other documents.

Kentucky Historical Society’s Kentucky History Museum – This museum houses historical materials, including documents related to social and political events in the state. The museum also provides access to genealogical resources that can help you find your Kentucky ancestors.

County Archives – Each county in Kentucky has its own archives where you can find more localized records such as land records, court records, and real estate records. Many county archives offer their services in both physical and digital formats.

Censuses

Censuses are a valuable source of information for genealogical research. Kentucky has had regular censuses since 1790 and these records can provide detailed information on your Ancestry family.

US Censuses – US censuses have been taken every 10 years since 1790, and all of these records are available through the US National Archives. Census records for 1790, 1800, 1810, 1820, 1830, 1840, etc. can tell you the age, occupation, location and family composition of your ancestors.

Online resources – platforms such as Ancestry, FamilySearch, and MyHeritage offer access to digitized U.S. censuses, including those for Kentucky. Many of these censuses are available for free on the FamilySearch platform, which is one of the largest sources of genealogical information.

Church Records

Church records play an important role in genealogical research, especially for finding ancestors who lived before the state vital records began. In Kentucky, many churches kept detailed baptism, marriage, and death records that can provide valuable information.

Church records – Baptism, marriage, and death records, as well as congregational records, may be kept at local churches. Most Kentucky churches maintain their own archives, and if you know which church your ancestors belonged to, you can go there to search for relevant records.

Church archives in digital format – Some church records can be digitized and accessed through online resources. For example, FamilySearch and Ancestry offer access to digitized church records, including baptism, marriage and death records, which can be useful for researching ancestral history in Kentucky.

Newspapers

Newspapers are a valuable source for finding information about your ancestors, as they published not only news, but also announcements of weddings, deaths, births of children, and other important events.

Kentucky Newspapers – Various old newspapers, including The Courier-Journal and The Lexington Herald-Leader, may contain notes and announcements about your ancestors, such as obituaries, wedding announcements, or even court case publications. Newspapers often published information about local residents, especially if they held important community positions.

Digital Newspaper Archives – For easy retrieval, many old Kentucky newspapers have been digitized and are now available through online platforms. You can find old newspapers in resources such as Chronicling America, which offers free access to digitized U.S. newspapers, or the Kentucky Digital Newspaper Program, which focuses on Kentucky newspapers.

The post Where to Look for Documents: Archives, Censuses, Church Records, Newspapers appeared first on KY Western History.

Founding and early history

Crittenden County was formed in 1842 from parts of Livingston, Lee, and Todd counties. The name of the county comes from the Crittenden family, prominent political figures of the time. The first settlers were mostly farmers who were engaged in agriculture, particularly tobacco and corn.

Development and economy

During the 19th century, Crittenden County experienced periods of economic growth and hardship. After the Civil War, the region recovered, and agriculture remained the main economic activity. Later, with the development of transportation and railroads, the county became an important trading center, which contributed to the growth of local towns and villages.

Famous families

Among the famous families of Crittenden County is the Crittenden family, which gave the county its name. John Jordan Crittenden (1787-1863) was the governor of Kentucky and a U.S. senator. His son, John Crittenden (1830-1909), also had a significant impact on the political life of the state.

Another influential family was the Bennett family. James Bennett (1800-1875) was one of the first settlers of the county and was actively involved in the development of local agriculture. His descendants continued their father’s work, becoming important figures in the economic life of the region.

Current status

Today, Crittenden County retains its agricultural heritage, but is also developing towards tourism and small businesses. Local communities are actively working to preserve historical sites and cultural heritage, organizing festivals, fairs and other events that attract tourists and contribute to the development of the region’s economy.

The post Crittenden County: Milestones in History and Famous Families appeared first on KY Western History.

History of the cemetery

Rose Hill Cemetery was founded in the mid-19th century and has since become the final resting place for numerous generations of local residents. Over the years, not only the citizens of Lyon County, but also people connected with its history have found peace on its territory. From simple farmers to famous figures, from war veterans to ordinary residents, the cemetery has become a testament to the past of this region.

From the very beginning, the cemetery served not only as a burial place, but also as an important symbol of the community that honored its ancestors and preserved their memory. The architecture of the graves, the arrangement of stone slabs and inscriptions reflect different historical periods, as well as changes in the culture and religious beliefs of the locals.

Memories and stories stored on the slabs

Rose Hill Cemetery is not just a resting place for the dead, but also a place that preserves memories of important moments in Lyon County history. The names of people who lived through difficult historical events such as the Civil War, the Great Depression, and other social and economic changes can be seen on the stones.

The names of the veterans of the Civil War, the First and Second World Wars remind us of their heroic deeds and great losses. Numerous graves with dates and inscriptions indicate the difficult path these people traveled. The words and dates written on the slabs allow modern generations to preserve the memory of these times, as well as to reflect on the price of peace and freedom.

An interesting feature of the cemetery is the graves belonging to many families who made a significant contribution to the development of Lyon County. It is a place where different generations meet, where each grave tells its own story. Families who buried their loved ones at Rose Hill often left inscriptions on the stones that reflect their affiliation with the land and their deep attachment to their native land.

Cemetery as a part of culture and heritage

Rose Hill Cemetery is not just a resting place; it is a living part of Lyon County’s culture and heritage. A visit to the cemetery allows locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a time when the community was still young and just beginning to develop.

Commemorative ceremonies are held annually at the cemetery, including on Memorial Day, when locals gather to honor the memory of their ancestors. This is an important part of community life, where we are reminded again and again of the importance of family, history, and tradition. The cemetery also serves as a place for family reunions, where people can discuss their roots, explore their family tree, and share stories about their ancestors.

In addition, the cemetery is an important element for those interested in the history of Lyon County. For researchers, historians, and genealogists, Rose Hill is a real treasure trove of valuable information. Here you can find a large amount of data relating to the early stages of the county’s development, as well as important events in the history of the area.

Modern significance of the cemetery

Today, Rose Hill Cemetery continues to be a place of honor and remembrance. It serves not only the descendants of the families buried there, but also those who seek to learn more about the history of Lyon County. In addition, this place remains important for tourists who come to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscapes that surround the cemetery. The cemetery has become a part of Lyon County’s historical heritage and is a symbol of respect for those who lived here before us, giving their efforts to develop this land. Rose Hill continues to be one of the county’s important cultural centers, where memories of the past remain vivid.

The post Rose Hill Cemetery Lyon County appeared first on KY Western History.

Established in the mid-19th century, Bells Mines Cemetery has become the final resting place for many Kentuckians, including families who played an important role in the development of the region. Many of these families left a significant mark on the state’s history, and their headstones serve as monuments not only to their accomplishments but also to dramatic events that have become part of Western Kentucky’s history.

One of the features of the cemetery is the variety of headstone styles that reflect the changes in burial architecture that characterized different stages of its existence. Here you can find both simple stone slabs and luxurious marble monuments made in different styles, from classical to more extravagant ones that were popular in the early 20th century. Many of these tombstones have inlaid inscriptions that tell the stories of the deceased, their families, and their achievements.

However, not all stories related to this cemetery have a rational explanation. Locals often talk about strange events that take place on the territory of Bells Mines, which many consider to be supernatural. Rumors of ghosts wandering among the graves, ancient records of missing persons, and even unexplained sounds at night make one wonder if these legends are not hiding some dark secrets.

For genealogists and historians, the Bells Mines Cemetery is an important place for research, as it holds a wealth of information about families who have lived in the area for centuries. Often, it is the tombstones that become the key to uncovering family ties and events that took place in the lives of the deceased. Researchers can find names, dates, and sometimes additional information about families on these monuments, which help to reveal significant pages of the history of this region.

Over time, the cemetery has also become a place of remembrance for the descendants of those who lived here many years ago. However, modern visitors to the cemetery often not only admire its historical significance, but also try to unravel the secrets left by previous generations. The secrets of ancient headstones, rumors of ghosts, and mysterious burial circumstances still arouse interest among those seeking to penetrate the depths of Western Kentucky history.

Thus, the Bell Tower Cemetery remains an important cultural and historical site that not only preserves the memory of the past but also continues to attract the attention of researchers, tourists, and those seeking answers to unclear questions related to ancient burials.

The post Bells Mines Cemetery: Secrets of Ancient Headstones appeared first on KY Western History.

Founding and development of the community

The Bethel community, located in Christian County, was founded in the early 19th century when European settlers began to develop the area. The idea of creating a community arose from the need to unite local residents for mutual support, agricultural development, and organization of religious life. From the beginning of its existence, Bethel has been a place for religious rites, education, and social events.

The history of the Bethel community is inextricably linked to the development of this part of Christian County, where agriculture, local businesses, and social ties have played a significant role. Because of its proximity to natural resources such as rivers and fertile land, Bethel quickly became an important economic and cultural center.

Bethel Church: The religious center of the community

Bethel Church was founded in the mid-19th century and became the heart of the local community. It was built with voluntary donations from local residents who wanted a place to pray together and hold religious events. From the very beginning, the church became a place not only for spiritual needs, but also for public meetings and discussions of important community development issues.

The architecture of the Bethel Church reflects the typical features of the time: simplicity and functionality. The building was constructed of wood, which was typical for most rural churches of the period. The interior of the church was also restrained, but impressed with its cozy atmosphere, which allowed parishioners to feel safe and calm during the service.

The church became the center of the community’s spiritual life, hosting not only religious services but also cultural events such as concerts, celebrations in honor of local holidays and other important events.

The importance of the church to the Bethel community

Bethel Church became an important social institution for the community. Not only did it provide a place for prayer and worship, but it also became a place for meetings and the exchange of ideas. Religious holidays were an important part of the community’s life, during which residents came together to celebrate their common achievements and share their joys and worries.

For many years, the church remained not only a spiritual but also a cultural center of the community. It became a place where important issues were discussed, where meetings for women, children, and youth were held, as well as meetings of local leaders.

The church played a special role in times of difficulty. During economic and social crises, such as the Great Depression and other difficulties, Bethel Church was a place of support for local residents, where they could receive help not only in a religious sense, but also in the form of humanitarian support.

Current status of the community and the church

Today, the Bethel community continues to exist, preserving its historical heritage. The Bethel Church still serves as a place for spiritual and social unification of the residents. Although its appearance has changed over time, the spirit of what was created by previous generations is preserved within its walls.

The community continues to develop actively, preserving the traditions that originated in the 19th century, while integrating new ideas and modern approaches to the development of local life. Modern events and initiatives held within the community preserve the same atmosphere of unity and support that the Bethel community has had since the first days of its existence.

The Bethel Church remains an important spiritual center for new generations, offering them a place to reflect, pray together, and preserve the traditional values that have united the people of this community for many years.

The post Bethel in Christian: History of the Community and its Church appeared first on KY Western History.

The origins of the Casey family

The Casey surname has Irish roots, derived from the Gaelic “Ó Cathasaigh”, which means “descendant of the watchful”. Many members of this family emigrated to America in the 18th and 19th centuries in search of new opportunities and a better life.

The first settlements in County Christian

In the first half of the nineteenth century, several families with the Casey surname settled in Christian County. They were engaged in agriculture, particularly the cultivation of tobacco and corn, which were the main crops in the region. Some of them were also involved in civic life, contributing to the development of local infrastructure and education.

Prominent members of the family

Jonathan Casey (1810-1885): A farmer and civic leader who actively supported the construction of schools and churches in the area. His efforts contributed to raising the level of education among the local population.

Sarah Casey (1835-1902): Known as a local healer, she used her knowledge of herbs and folk medicine to help her fellow villagers. Her reputation attracted people from other counties as well.

Legacy and impact

The Casey family has made significant contributions to the development of Christian County. Their work and dedication to the community left a deep mark on the region’s history. Today, descendants of the family continue to live in Kentucky, preserving the memory of their ancestors and their accomplishments. Researching the Casey family genealogy opens up interesting pages of western Kentucky history and demonstrates how individual families have shaped the local community.

The post Casey from Christian County: Heritage and Family History appeared first on KY Western History.

History of the cemetery

Baker Cemetery was established in the mid-nineteenth century and has become the burial place of many prominent individuals in Crittenden County. Among the buried are representatives of families who were the first settlers of the region, as well as those who made a significant contribution to the development of the local community.

Families buried at the cemetery

Among the families whose representatives found eternal rest at the Baker Cemetery are the following:

• The Baker family: Founders of the cemetery who were among the first settlers of Crittenden County.
• The Johnson Family: Well-known local businessmen who contributed to the region’s economy.
• Smith Family: Prominent farmers who introduced new methods of farming and livestock production.

Architectural features

The Baker Cemetery is known for its architectural diversity of tombstones. Here you can see both simple wooden crosses and luxurious marble and granite monuments, which testifies to the different stages of development of the local community and its economic status.

Significance for genealogical research

For genealogy researchers, Baker Cemetery is an invaluable resource. Graves with detailed inscriptions and dates of birth and death allow you to reestablish family ties and explore the history of specific families who lived in Crittenden County.

Current condition and protection

Today, the Baker Cemetery is protected by the local community and historical societies. Regular work is done to restore and preserve the headstones, and guided tours are organized for visitors who wish to learn more about the history of Crittenden County and its people.

The post Baker Cemetery: Crittenden County Family Burial Grounds appeared first on KY Western History.