Local History & Genealogy

The Starke County Public Library System is pleased to offer another new database for your genealogical research – American Ancestors, a database hosted by the New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS), the oldest and largest genealogical society in the United States, founded in 1845. Its mission is to “collect, preserve, and interpret materials to document and make accessible the histories of families in America.” NEHGS maintains a large web site with more than 100 million names in its databases, the largest such online collection of any genealogical society. It includes vital records, compiled genealogies, and a suite of scholarly journals, such as The New England Historical and Genealogical Register and The American Genealogist, the leading independent journal in American genealogy.

Ancestry Library Edition "provides patrons with instant access to a wide range of unique resources for genealogical and historical research. With more than 1.5 billion names in over 4,000 databases, Ancestry Library Edition includes records from the United States Census; military records; court, land and probate records; vital and church records; directories; passenger lists and more! These collections are continuously expanding, with new content added every business day."

HeritageQuest Online provides a comprehensive collection of genealogical and local history resources. This database 
makes it convenient to explore billions of American and international genealogical records dating back to the 1700s — 
including unique primary sources, family and local histories, research guides, interactive census maps and more. Combined 
with an easy to use search experience, it’s easier than ever for users to discover their ancestors and learn about local people 
and places from the past. 
Key Features

• 500+ searchable databases for genealogical research, containing more than 5 billion total records.
• Robust search interface powered by Ancestry ® , the #1brand for genealogy research.
• Available for remote access and in-library use for both public and academic libraries around the world.
• Research aids includes search tips and how to use census and other genealogical data.
• Interactive map of the U.S. based on the Federal Census, 1790-1920, to view how county boundaries change over time.
• Digital copy of The Census Book, containing information about Historical U.S. Censuses, Published Statewide Censuses and Indexes, Lost or Missing Censuses, Countywide Census Indexes, Non-population Census Schedules, and blank U.S. Census Forms.

NewspaperArchive will give you access to a multitude of Newspapers from Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Kentucky. “Explore stories, articles and pictures of your ancestors that will inspire you to connect with them on a deeper level. Discover comics, historical ads, celebrity stories, and sports heroes. Some of the stories you will uncover will provide great conversation starters for your next chat with your parents, grandparents or extended family.”