Searching for my Indian ancestory

Dear Ms. Gilmore,

Thank you for posting your request on History Hub!

We suggest that you review NARA’s website for tips on how to begin your genealogical research and Census Resources for tips on how to access census records that may are digitized in the National Archives Catalog or available on our partners’ websites as well as how to view them for free at a NARA facility. NARA has census schedules on microfilm dating from 1790 to 1930 but data from recent censuses are not available after 1940 due to the 72-year restriction on access to the Census. Most researchers find it helpful to begin with the 1940 Census and work backwards to locate people in earlier generations.

In addition, please review NARA’s website on Native American Heritage for tips on how to determine the tribe that your relatives may have been a members of and to ascertain the records that might be useful to your research. There is an all encompassing resource for Native American individuals which are found among the Records of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (Record Group 75). These records are organized by tribal nation. Once you determine the state where your relatives may have lived via other sources, then you should be able to look at nearby tribes and bands. Please note that many American Indians who left reservations will not be captured in Federal records which would make identifying tribal affiliations even more difficult. You may wish to use the resource where you found her picture as a starting point for your research.

We hope this is helpful. Best of luck with your family research!

[Information provided by Cody White, Subject Matter Expert]