Research Library Spotlight: Genealogy Charts and Family Trees

For years, researchers have kindly donated their family history compilations to the State Library.  Most of these items are published family histories or research notes, which are included in our Genealogy Collection.  Included in donations were large family trees, either filled with family details or left blank as a guide to help other researchers create a visualization of their own line of descent.

The collection of Family History Charts consists of roughly 165 family trees stored in 18 folders.  The charts generally show a single line of descent from a notable individual.  Subjects in the collection include:  King George IV of England, General George Washington, David Brearley, and Mayflower passengers.  There are also blank charts, great for using to chart your own line of descent!

Currently, there is a summary table for the family history charts that has a main family surname, plus drawer and folder number where you can find the relevant tree.  The does not include every surname that appears on each chart, just the main line of descent.  Check out the Family History Charts Quick Guide!

It’s wonderful to see so many visual representations of someone’s family history research!  Even if your family is not represented in the collection, please feel free to use the compiled charts as inspiration to create your own family tree.  Looking for some free digital charts?  Check out these options from the National Archives!

For questions about this collection, please contact Genealogy Librarian Regina Fitzpatrick at rfitzpatrick@njstatelib.org.