Established in 1845, we are the nation’s leading comprehensive resource for family history research and the largest Society of its kind in the world. We provide expert family history services through our staff, original scholarship, data-rich website, educational opportunities, and research center to help family historians of all levels explore their past and understand their families’ unique place in history.

Unique Resources for Family Historians of All Levels 

• Databases Our members have access to 1.4+ billion records spanning the United States, the British Isles, continental Europe, and beyond. With one of the most extensive online collections of early American genealogical records and the largest searchable collection of published genealogical research journals and magazines, our databases are indispensable resources for anyone looking to take their research to the next level.  
• Education Opportunities Interested in ancestry, American history, or art and architecture? You're sure to discover an American Ancestors event just for you. We provide exclusive, in-depth learning opportunities online and in person, including lectures, seminars, intensive research programs, tours, and special events designed to inform and inspire anyone with a passion for discovery. 
• Expert Help Not only are our expert staff of researchers and genealogists among the most respected and advanced in the profession, they're also here to help you. Ask a Genealogist, our free online chat service, allows anyone to ask short research or history questions and get real-time answers. If you have a bigger question, our experts can provide in-depth research assistance with our Personal Genealogist for the Day service or research-for-hire projects.
• Research Center We invite all to visit our eight-story research center in Boston's Back Bay neighborhood. Stop by to gain access to millions of documents, manuscripts, records, and other items preserving our nation’s history or work with our expert staff to guide you through our collections.
• Original Scholarship Whether you want to read the Register or Mayflower Descendant, the most respected journals in the field, find a useful research guide or browse our quarterly magazine and weekly email newsletter, there's always something new to discover in our ever expanding catalogue of original research and publications.

Take the Next Step on Your Genealogical Journey 

Before you begin exploring our website, fill out the form on this page to begin receiving more information from American Ancestors, including:

• Information about the benefits of membership
• Invites to register for online and in-person education opportunities
• Updates on new databases available
• Exclusive offers on items in our bookstore
• Opportunities to take advantage of our expert services