So You Wanna Be a Pennsylvania Obituary Detective? ️♀️ (It's More Exciting Than It Sounds, Promise!)
Let's face it, unearthing old obituaries in Pennsylvania isn't exactly attending a rock concert. But fear not, history buff (or maybe you just have a burning curiosity about Aunt Mildred's past)! There are ways to crack this genealogical case, and even have a chuckle or two along the way.
 |
| How To Find Old Obituaries In Pennsylvania |
First Stop: The Web of Wonders (But Beware the Rabbit Holes!)
The internet is a treasure trove for obituary sleuthing. Here's where the fun begins:
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
Subscription Sites: Ancestry.com, GenealogyBank, and Newspapers.com ([subscription required, some offer free trials]) are like CSI for family history. They house obituaries from a vast array of Pennsylvania papers, some dating back to the 1800s. Be warned, these sites can be a time suck (hey, Grandpa Joe's Civil War record is fascinating too!), so set a timer to avoid getting lost in the digital archives.
Free Resources: Don't underestimate the power of a good Google search! FamilySearch and ObitsArchive.com offer free Pennsylvania obituaries, though their collections might not be as extensive. Local libraries and historical societies sometimes have digitized newspapers – a free option worth exploring.
Remember: Obituaries might be listed under a person's initials, especially in older papers. Search variations of the name and don't be afraid to get creative!
QuickTip: Reading regularly builds stronger recall.
Calling All Newspaper Bloodhounds!
If your search online comes up empty, fret not! There's still a chance to sniff out that obituary:
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
Hit the Stacks: Local libraries often have microfilm or archived newspapers. Be prepared for an adventure – you might unearth some hilarious classified ads or vintage recipes along the way.
Contact the Newspaper Directly: Some newspapers keep their own obituary files. A polite phone call or email could be the key to unlocking the mystery.
Bonus Tip: If you know the town where your ancestor lived, try searching for the local historical society. They might have a goldmine of local obituaries waiting to be discovered.
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
 |
FAQ: Your Pennsylvania Obituary Detective Training is Almost Complete!
Here are some quick tips to put your newfound skills to the test:
How to Narrow My Search? Use the estimated date of death and location (city/county) to refine your online searches.
What if the Obituary is in Another Language? Genealogy websites often have translation tools. For trickier languages, consider reaching out to a local historical society or genealogical society for assistance.
I Found the Obituary, Now What? Save it! Take screenshots or printouts for safekeeping. Obituaries can be a valuable source of family history information.
This is Frustrating! Any Words of Encouragement? Genealogy is a marathon, not a sprint. Don't get discouraged if you don't find what you're looking for right away. Persistence is key!
Help! I'm Drowning in Old Newspapers! Take breaks! Genealogy research should be enjoyable. Reward yourself with a cup of coffee or a slice of pie after a productive search session.
So, there you have it! With a little determination and these tips, you'll be a Pennsylvania obituary pro in no time. Now, get out there and uncover those fascinating family stories!
 |
