Research
$60 per hour
Four-hour minimum ($240) with a 50% retainer.
Genealogical services
Let's find the story behind the names.
Perhaps you have inherited a box of family papers, reached a stubborn brick wall, or simply want to know whether the stories you have heard are true. You do not need to know exactly where to begin. Bring me your questions, and we will decide on a sensible path forward together.
Request a complimentary 30-minute consultation. Why hire a professional genealogist?How I can help
Research shaped around your questions
Every family and every mystery is different. We will start with what matters most to you and choose a sensible path forward together.
Clear pricing
Know what to expect
We will agree on the scope and anticipated costs before work begins.
Record Retrieval
$45 per record
Plus copy costs and approved mileage beyond 10 miles.
Coaching & Collaboration
$195
Six private 60-minute sessions.
Conversations of a Lifetime
$250 base package
$150 for each additional conversation. Local travel within 25 miles is included.
Speaking & Teaching
$125
For a 35–45 minute program.
Research expenses are billed separately. For Conversations of a Lifetime, travel beyond 25 miles is billed at the current IRS mileage rate; any overnight expenses are arranged in advance.
Primary service
Family history research
I can begin a new family tree, strengthen the one you already have, or focus closely on one question that has resisted every answer.
Good research is more than collecting names from other people's trees. I evaluate records, resolve conflicting information, document relationships, and explain what the evidence does—and does not—tell us.
Research may include
- Building or extending a documented family tree
- Investigating a brick wall or specific family mystery
- Reviewing and verifying research you have already completed
- Organizing inherited documents, notes, and family information
- Research in online collections and original repositories
What you receive
Depending on the project, your work may include a written report or findings summary, source citations, copies of records, a documented family tree, and recommendations for the next stage of research.
North Carolina record retrieval
Record Retrieval
Many valuable records still live in courthouses, archives, libraries, and special collections. I can retrieve and evaluate records from the North Carolina State Archives, the State Library, university special collections, county libraries, and many North Carolina courthouses.
Copying, ordering, mileage, and repository fees may be additional.
One-to-one genealogy coaching
Coaching & collaboration
Sometimes you do not want someone to take over—you want an experienced partner who can help you see the next step.
We can meet virtually or in person to review your work, untangle a difficult problem, build a practical research plan, or strengthen your skills. I also teach people to use Family Tree Maker, Ancestry, FamilySearch, and other genealogy tools.
Coaching is collaborative and tailored to you. Bring your questions, your records, and even your confusion. We will work through it together.
Preserve a living voice
Conversations of a Lifetime
Help someone you love preserve memories, wisdom, and everyday stories for future generations.
Learn about Conversations of a LifetimePrograms for groups and societies
Speaking & teaching
I offer practical, approachable genealogy programs for societies, libraries, community groups, and lifelong learners—from practical research skills to the stories hidden inside historical records. Topics and format can be discussed based on the needs of your group.
Inquire about a programYour question is a good place to begin
Not sure which kind of help you need?
That is perfectly fine. Tell me what you know, what you'd like to know and we will discover it together.
Request a complimentary 30-minute consultation.