Denys Allen

I create history+genealogy content so you can discover your Pennsylvania ancestors • On a mission to re-construct our ancestors lives and powerfully share them

Resources

Studying Historical ICD Codes to Deepen Genealogy Research

Learning the meaning behind the ICD code on an ancestors' death certificate can unlock new meaning and context for their death. Here's how to find historical ICD codes for genealogy research.

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Deep Dive on Private Laws and Why They Matter

Resources

Essential Guide to Vital Records Research in Pennsylvania

Discover the significance of vital records in Pennsylvania and learn effective strategies for utilizing them in your genealogy research.

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The County Tax Collector in Pennsylvania

Probably the least favorite office for our ancestors - the tax collector! Taxes were collected for various things over the decades, and you can learn all about it in these videos.

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Introduction to County Courthouse Research

Pennsylvania's county courthouses hold the majority of the records of your ancestors. Learn how county courthouses are organized and why these records matter for genealogy research.

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The Recorder of Deeds Office in Pennsylvania

An overview of the Recorder of Deeds office in Pennsylvania and the records helpful for genealogy research.

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The Orphans Court in Pennsylvania

Explore historical estate records, probate files, minute books, marriage licenses, and guardianships at the Orphans Court.

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Collected Notes on Census Records

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prothonotary

The Prothonotary Office in Pennsylvania

One of the fascinating ways to peek into our ancestors' everyday lives is through the records held at the Prothonotary's office.The five videos below cover the history of the Prothonotary in Pennsylvania and the records you will find there.

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probate

The Register of Wills Office in Pennsylvania

This five-part video series walks you through the records available at the Register of Wills office in county courthouses in Pennsylvania. Learn how to search and obtain copies of wills and probate records for genealogy research.

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The Coroner's Office in Pennsylvania

Explore the role of the coroner in Pennsylvania from its inception with Research County Courthouses. Discover how this historical occupation impacts today's investigations of unexpected or suspicious deaths.

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The Sheriff's Office in Pennsylvania

Discover hidden genealogical clues in historical sheriff's records. Not available online, these records offer insights into your ancestors' legal history and non-payment of taxes. Explore in-person or hire a researcher.

Resources

The Labor of Your Ancestors

Your Pennsylvania ancestors worked in Lumber, Coal Mining, Oil Drilling, Steel Manufacturing, Textile Production, Tanning Leather, Consumer Products, and Agriculture.

Resources

Where to Find Property Deeds in Pennsylvania for Family History Research

In Pennsylvania both land and property transfers are recorded at Recorder of Deeds offices around the Commonwealth. This article will give you tips on how to locate land deeds and property deeds at the Recorder of Deeds office.

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Deep Dive: Tips & Tricks Researching on Ancestry & FamilySearch

Podcast

Podcast Episode 80: The Pennsylvania Dutch Language with Mark Louden

Learn about what differentiates the Pennsylvania Dutch language from its German cousins. And why PA Dutch is truly an American language.

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Deep Dive: Using Notion to Plan a Research Trip

Resources

Marriage Licenses in Pennsylvania: A Comprehensive Guide for Genealogy Research

Marriage licenses have played a significant role in documenting the institution of marriage. In Pennsylvania, the regulations and requirements for obtaining marriage licenses have evolved over time. For genealogists and family historians, understanding this history and the process of obtaining a marriage license records can provide essential details of an

Podcast

Podcast Episode 79: Meet the Lenape of Pennsylvania

Meet Adam Waterbearer DePaul, Tribal Storykeeper of the Lenape of Pennsylvania, who fills in a big gap in our shared history here and provides hope through the Prophecy of the Four Crows.

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Deep Dive: Using AI to Write Family History

Podcast

The Forgotten Religions of Early America

Most people don’t know how vibrant and distinct religion was in the 18th century. Here’s the 21 religions of the 1700’s in America.

Podcast

Target Your Research with Genetic Communities

AncestryDNA has the largest DNA database in the world for genealogy. Their data on genetic communities can help you target your research if you take an extra step with it. I explain that step in this episode.

Podcast

Do You Know This Early Pennsylvania History?

If you have ancestors in Pennsylvania in the 17th & 18th century, knowing these four things will help your understanding of our records (and our history!).

Podcast

The Big Announcements You Missed at RootsTech 2023

Did you hear about the new things coming to genealogy in 2023? Here's the announcements of what's rolling out in 2023 from Ancestry and FamilySearch.

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Deep Dive: How I Research