Common Genealogy Research Pitfalls

And How to Avoid Them

Genealogy research is exciting, but it can be full of hidden challenges that even experienced researchers face. Being aware of these common pitfalls can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your family tree is built on solid, verifiable facts.

1. Identically-Named Individuals

A particularly tricky situation arises when two or more people with the same name — and roughly the same age — lived in the same location. Sometimes, these individuals aren’t even related, though they appear in the same records or community. Even within families, you may find mothers and daughters or fathers and sons sharing the same name.

To avoid confusion:

✔️ Use multiple records to distinguish individuals

✔️ Pay close attention to land, probate, census, and church records that can help pinpoint places of residence or family relationships

✔️ Never assume — always verify

2. Mistaken Identity Through Surnames

Another common mistake is assuming that people with the same or similar surnames are automatically related. While this can be a useful lead, it’s essential to treat it as a starting point — not a fact.

Tip: Use similar surnames to guide your research, but only add individuals to your tree once reliable, documented connections are established.

3. Conflicting Records

You’ll often find different records providing conflicting information — particularly when it comes to birth dates, marriage details, or maiden names.

When this happens:

✔️ Look for additional sources to help clarify the truth

✔️ Give more weight to records created closest to the event, especially if created by the individual involved

For example:

• A birth date on a birth or baptism record is usually the most reliable

• A birth date on a marriage record is likely accurate, as the person probably provided it

• A birth date on a death certificate may be less reliable, as it depends on the knowledge of someone else

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4. Inaccurate Pedigrees & Previous Research

It’s tempting to adopt pedigrees from books, websites, or other researchers, but beware — not all are accurate. Some have been intentionally or unintentionally altered to create connections to famous or noble ancestors. Others contain assumptions presented as facts.

Protect your research by:

✔️ Verifying every pedigree against reliable records

✔️ Checking for consistency with your existing research

✔️ Researching the reputation of the person or organization that compiled the pedigree

5. Family Legends & Tall Tales

Family stories are wonderful, but they often evolve over time — and not always accurately. Claims of descent from royalty, nobility, or heroic ancestors are common, but many turn out to be family myths, exaggerated over generations.

Remember:

• Family stories can offer clues, but they are not proof

• Always support or refute family legends with documented evidence

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6. Impossibly Close or Illogical Dates

Sometimes you’ll encounter records with dates that simply don’t add up — such as children born too close together, or marriages happening after a person’s recorded death.

Before assuming these are simple errors, consider:

✔️ Other available records for clarification

✔️ If the records date before 1752, the Julian calendar may be in use

Julian Calendar Note: Before 1752, the new year in many places began on March 25th, not January 1st. This can lead to confusing date sequences that seem illogical by today’s standards.

Final Thoughts

Genealogy is like solving a complex puzzle — patience, attention to detail, and a healthy dose of skepticism are essential. Always verify information with multiple, reliable sources to ensure your family history is as accurate as possible.