Forensic Genealogy to Bash Brickwalls

Are you staring at a brick wall in your genealogy research? You know, the kind that refuses to budge no matter how many records you dig through? If so, it's time to bring in one of the big tools:

 forensic genealogy

Forensic genealogy goes beyond hobby research. It's the marriage of deep historical investigation, legal standards, and technology like DNA testing. These are all used to bring down your family brickwalls. So, the first thing to tackle is knowingg the different niches within this field? Each one holds powerful techniques that could help break through your toughest family mysteries.

We created the graphic to showcase the nine main niches of forensic genealogy, all of which offer clues, records, and strategies that you might not have considered.

Let’s explore how some of these specialties can help you overcome common brick walls:

1.  Heir Research and Probate Cases

Are you stuck on a family member who “disappeared” from records? Probate research can help. Forensic genealogists often locate missing heirs by reconstructing family groups using state and federal census records, land deeds and legal transactions, and court documents. These methods are accessible and mostly free. We start with familysearch.org or government bounty records. The only difference is that you can use that copy of the record to extract family names and transactions without paying for the certified document if you wish. But, be sure to cite your source with the link. 

2. Unknown Parentage and Adoptions
Whether you're adopted or trying to identify a mystery great-grandparent, this niche uses genetic genealogy and advanced DNA techniques to pinpoint biological relatives. We used the familiar DNA tests: familytreeDNA, MyHeritage, and Ancestry.com. With tools like GEDmatch, and chromosome analysis tools (my favorite is MyHeritage), you can map out hidden branches on your family tree.

3. Military Repatriation / POW-MIA Research
Do you have a brickwall in your family military research? Forensic genealogists often work with the government to identify unknown remains. These same skills—like tracking enlistment patterns, researching regimental histories, or locating descendants of service members—can help you connect missing pieces in your family’s military legacy. Plus, if your veteran did not utilize benefits, you may be able to give him a proper burial, and request his medals from WWI and WWII, etc. 

At Tracing Ancestors.org we have the Eternal Valor Network. Be sure to read about it. And if you get the urge, donate to the annual drive. 

4. Land and Property Disputes
I know I mentioned land records earlier, but I have to remind you...follow the money! If there's a lawsuit filled with community testimonies and the spilling out of family gossip, it is a property dispute. This is a great resource if you’ve hit a wall with property ownership or migration patterns. Land records can reveal long-lost family ties. Most often, forensic genealogists trace land transfers, boundary changes, and property disputes to identify rightful heirs. Same job, different purpose. Both are used to figure out where your ancestors went, and why. 

I had ancestors who left land in Rutherford County, NC because they had to escape with a two-day notice that the local KKK had plans to burn down much of the town, and they were targeted. They fled to Cocke County, Tennessee, in the middle of the night, and didn't sell their land until almost eight years later. They had chosen not to return to Rutherford but to settle in the newly opened lands in Kansas. Their entire story was in land records. 

5. Tribal Enrollment and Indigenous Descent
I know you have a grandparent who will promise under oath that your family has native heritage. Proving or disproving Native American ancestry often requires meticulous documentation and lineage tracking. This work also demands historical accuracy and understanding of the law at the time. At a3Genealogy Research we used to gather the documents for 6 to 8 of these cases a year! Even if disproven, you will be gathering a lot of data on your ancestors. Actually, I think the rejections are the best. There is a lot of information to include names, dates, and places of birth, in those back-and-forth correspondence letters and testimonies. Plus, I have yet to leave these research projects without uncovering a new family member, or finally uncovering a birth or death date.

We will discuss the other four (4) at a later time.

So How Can You Use These Niches?
You don’t have to be a forensic genealogist to benefit from their tools. Here’s how to start:

• Analyze your brick wall: Is it related to identity, location, military service, or a legal issue?
• Match it to a niche: Refer to the graphic above and identify which forensic specialty might offer solutions.
• Study their techniques: Read case studies, listen to forensic genealogy podcasts (like Hittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen!), and explore how professionals solve similar challenges.
• Use DNA smartly: Combine traditional research with DNA testing to validate and explore new relationships.

Forensic genealogy isn’t just for solving cold cases or identifying unknown soldiers. It’s for anyone who wants to go deeper, think smarter, and uncover the stories hiding behind a brick wall.

Ready to learn more? Subscribe to our podcast, and keep exploring (linktr.ee/hittinthebricks).

Update:
Yes, after 3 years, you will be finally get the new (no so new) look.

The a3Genealogy blog has been donated to TracingAncestors.org (2023).