United States Directories

While a directory can often in itself be a source of interesting genealogical and biographical information, its chief value lies in its use as an aid to locating a person in place and time. One type of directory groups people by a common residence. The second groups them by a common association or attribute. In addition, many directories cover organizations rather than individuals and are sometimes called registers, catalogs, annuals, yearbooks, or guides. Whatever its title, contents, or method, a directory will always list and locate members of a group.

Source: Szucs and Luebking, The Source: A Guidebook of American Genealogy
Purchase: The Source: A Guidebook of American Genealogy

• Kentucky Directories

• Directories Help Guide

  • Go Direct to the Directories!
    In "Along Those Lines . . ." this week, let's talk about directories. I don't mean "just" city directories, although they certainly are excellent resources, but let's examine a number of types of directories.

  • Let Your Fingers Do the Walking
    Julie examines treasure waiting to be found in city directories and how they can help us further our family history research.

  • City Directories Help Identify Street Names
    City directories can help you track street-name changes throughout the years.

  • City Directories and Census Records
    A city directory can be a terrific aid in finding a census record.

  • Using Directories for Genealogical Research
    Directories of all sorts, sizes, and subjects can be extraordinarily useful research tools for genealogists.

Glossary:

Directory: A book containing one or more alphabetical lists of the inhabitants of any locality, with their addresses and occupations; also a similar compilation dealing with the members of a particular profession, trade, or association, as a Clerical or Medical Directory, etc.Home |