Trace Your Roots: Am I Related To Pocahontas?

The query “Am I related to Pocahontas?” often sparks a journey into genealogy. Family history research helps many people determine potential kinship with Pocahontas. Pocahontas’s story, deeply embedded in American history, attracts individuals tracing their ancestry. Native American heritage is often a key element for those exploring such connections.

Ever dreamed of being distantly related to royalty, or at least someone super important in history? Well, buckle up, because we’re diving into the fascinating, and sometimes frustrating, world of tracing your family tree back to Pocahontas! Yes, that Pocahontas – the one who met John Smith, bridged cultures, and became a legend.

Now, before you start picturing yourself in a Disney movie, let’s get real. Finding a verifiable link to Pocahontas isn’t exactly a walk in the park. It’s more like a historical scavenger hunt, filled with twists, turns, and maybe even a few dead ends. But hey, that’s part of the adventure, right? It is an important part of your research

Why the Pocahontas Obsession?

Why are so many people drawn to the idea of a Pocahontas connection? She represents a pivotal moment in American history, a time of clash and, surprisingly, cooperation between vastly different cultures. The historical significance of Pocahontas lies in her role as a cultural mediator, someone who navigated the complex world between the Powhatan people and the early Jamestown settlers. Plus, let’s be honest, there’s something undeniably romantic about the whole story, even if the truth is more nuanced than the Hollywood version.

The Thrill of the Chase (and the Potential Payoff)

Imagine the bragging rights! More than that, imagine the sense of connection to a pivotal figure in American history. Discovering a verifiable link to Pocahontas could unlock a whole new understanding of your family’s story and its place in the larger narrative of the nation.

Reality Check Required

It’s crucial to approach this quest with a healthy dose of realism. The further back you go, the trickier it gets. Records can be incomplete, inaccurate, or even nonexistent. And with a figure as famous as Pocahontas, the line between fact and fiction can get seriously blurry. So, get ready to be a detective, a historian, and maybe even a little bit of a myth-buster. Get ready for some challenges!

Accurate Research and Verification

The key to success is meticulous research and a commitment to verifying every claim. Don’t just take Aunt Mildred’s word for it! We’re talking about digging through documents, cross-referencing information, and maybe even enlisting the help of a professional genealogist. It’s all about separating the historical nuggets from the tall tales.

Pocahontas: Separating Fact from Fiction

Alright, let’s get into the real story of Pocahontas! Forget the Disney magic for a moment. The real Pocahontas, also known as Matoaka, was a fascinating and complex individual who lived in a world far more nuanced than most movies portray. Understanding the difference between the historical figure and the Hollywood version is crucial for anyone hoping to trace their lineage or appreciate her true legacy. So, buckle up, history buffs; this is where we separate the fact from the oh-so-enticing fiction!

The Real Matoaka: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Let’s ditch the animated song numbers and dive into what we actually know about Pocahontas’s life. Her birth name was Matoaka, and she was a member of the Powhatan people, a powerful and sophisticated society in early Virginia. Pocahontas was actually a childhood nickname, said to mean “playful one.” She grew up immersed in her tribe’s traditions and customs, learning about the land, its resources, and its spiritual beliefs.

Her encounters with the Jamestown colonists were significant, and she played a crucial role as a cultural mediator between the two very different groups. Imagine being a teenager navigating the complexities of diplomacy between your own people and a group of strange newcomers with unfamiliar customs! She facilitated communication, bartered for goods, and, on occasion, intervened to prevent conflict.

How Hollywood Got It (So) Wrong

Okay, let’s be real; Disney gave us a version of Pocahontas, but it wasn’t exactly a history lesson. Popular culture has painted her as a romantic figure, often exaggerating or completely fabricating aspects of her life. Movies, books, and even historical reenactments often perpetuate inaccuracies and myths. Think about the portrayal of her relationship with John Smith; Historians still debate the nature of their connection, but the romanticized version we often see isn’t supported by historical evidence.

Busting Myths and Sticking to Facts

It’s time to debunk some common misconceptions! One of the biggest is the idea of a romantic relationship with John Smith. While Smith’s accounts depict her saving him from execution, the details are questionable, and the romantic element is likely a later embellishment.

Another misconception is that she was a helpless maiden waiting to be rescued. Pocahontas was a strong-willed and resourceful woman who actively participated in shaping her own destiny and navigating the challenges of her time. To get the real story, stick to credible historical sources, scholarly articles, and reputable biographies. Don’t rely solely on movies or sensationalized stories!

Her Marriage to John Rolfe and Its Implications

Pocahontas’s marriage to John Rolfe was a pivotal moment in her life and in the history of Jamestown. Rolfe was a tobacco planter who played a key role in the colony’s economic success. Their marriage in 1614 brought a period of relative peace between the Powhatan people and the colonists. It was also a strategic alliance that benefited both sides, at least temporarily.

After their marriage, she converted to Christianity and took the name Rebecca. She traveled to England with Rolfe, where she was presented as a civilized “princess” to promote the success of the Jamestown colony. Sadly, she died in England at a young age.

Understanding the true story of Pocahontas means looking beyond the myths and appreciating her role as a cultural bridge, a diplomat, and a woman navigating the complexities of a changing world. And that’s the real story, folks!

Key Figures in Pocahontas’s World

Okay, so you want to dig a little deeper than just the Disney version, right? To really understand Pocahontas, you gotta know the crew she was rolling with. These folks weren’t just background characters; they were major players shaping her life and the whole Jamestown saga. Knowing their stories helps you untangle the web of relationships and power struggles back then. Let’s meet them, shall we?

Chief Powhatan (Wahunsenacawh)

This guy was the big cheese, the head honcho of the Powhatan Confederacy. Think of him as the CEO of a whole network of tribes. He wasn’t just a chief; he was Pocahontas’s dad! That relationship, right there, was a massive deal. We’re talking about someone who had to balance protecting his people with navigating the arrival of these strange English dudes. His interactions with the Jamestown settlers? Let’s just say it wasn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Think of him trying to figure out if these newcomers are friends or foes. Spoiler alert: It was complicated.

John Smith

Ah, John Smith, the name that’s always linked to Pocahontas. He was a soldier, explorer, and writer. He wrote these stories about his time in Jamestown. Here’s where it gets tricky. Smith tells tales of Pocahontas saving him from execution and well, there’s a lot of debate about how accurate those stories are. Historians have been scratching their heads over this for ages! What was their real relationship? Was it friendship, political maneuvering, or something else entirely? That’s the million-dollar question.

John Rolfe

Now, let’s fast-forward a bit. Enter John Rolfe. He wasn’t a soldier or an explorer. He was a businessman. This Rolfe fellow figured out how to grow tobacco like a boss, making Jamestown a profitable venture. Cha-ching! But here’s the real kicker: he married Pocahontas. This marriage wasn’t just a love story (although maybe there was some of that); it was a political move aimed at creating peace between the Powhatan and the English. Talk about high stakes!

Thomas Rolfe

Finally, we have Thomas Rolfe, the son of Pocahontas and John Rolfe. He’s the key to tracing your family history, folks! He carried the bloodline that connects you. He might have spent most of his life in England, but he is a VIP if you’re hunting for a Pocahontas connection. Without Thomas, we wouldn’t be having this conversation. He’s the progenitor, the ancestor from whom many people today can claim descent. So, remember that name!

The Powhatan People: More Than Just a Name in a History Book

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of the Powhatan people, shall we? Picture this: a vibrant, thriving society, rich in culture and deeply connected to the land long before the Mayflower even thought about setting sail. The Powhatan Confederacy was a powerful alliance of Algonquian-speaking tribes, led by the shrewd and influential Chief Powhatan (aka Wahunsenacawh – try saying that five times fast!).

These weren’t just a bunch of nameless faces in a textbook. They had intricate social structures, carefully cultivated farmlands, and spiritual beliefs tied to the very earth beneath their feet. They knew the rhythms of the seasons, the secrets of the forests, and the delicate balance of their ecosystem. Imagine their surprise when these strange ships started showing up on the horizon, bringing with them a whole lot of confusion and quite frankly, some serious conflict.

Their interactions with the English colonists weren’t always smooth sailing (pun intended!). There were moments of trade, uneasy alliances, and, unfortunately, plenty of bloodshed. Understanding this complex relationship is key to understanding Pocahontas’s role in history.

Jamestown: A New Beginning or a Recipe for Disaster?

Now, let’s hop over to the other side of the story – Jamestown. Founded in 1607, Jamestown was England’s first permanent settlement in North America. (Emphasis on the “permanent,” because there were some failed attempts before this one).

Imagine a bunch of settlers, fresh off the boat, trying to carve out a life in a completely foreign land. They were dealing with disease, starvation, and the constant threat of, well, everything! Life in Jamestown was no walk in the park. They were desperately trying to establish a foothold, and their survival often depended on their interactions with the Powhatan people (whether they liked it or not!).

This little settlement, Jamestown, played a monumental role in Pocahontas’s story. It was the stage upon which her life unfolded, intertwined with the lives of colonists like John Smith and John Rolfe, and where she navigated the turbulent waters of cultural exchange and political intrigue. Understanding Jamestown’s beginnings is essential to truly grasp the weight of her actions and the significance of her legacy.

Getting Started: Your Genealogical Quest Begins!

Okay, so you’re ready to dive headfirst into your family history? Awesome! Think of it as becoming a genealogical detective—but instead of solving crimes, you’re uncovering ancestral secrets. Before you get lost in old documents and dusty archives, let’s cover some super important first steps to set you up for success. It’s like making sure you have a good map before embarking on a road trip.

Talk to Your Relatives: The Living Library

First things first: your living relatives are a treasure trove of information. Seriously! Think of them as walking, talking encyclopedias of family lore. Your great aunt Mildred might just casually drop the fact that you’re secretly descended from royalty (okay, maybe not, but you never know!).

• Interview Time: Sit down with your parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or even distant cousins. Ask open-ended questions. Instead of, “Was Grandpa Joe a farmer?” try “Tell me about Grandpa Joe.” You’ll be surprised what stories come out.
• Family Story Bonanza: Encourage them to share stories, even the ones that seem trivial. Little anecdotes can provide clues and lead you down unexpected paths.
• Document Everything! Names, dates, places, relationships – jot it all down. Use a notebook, a voice recorder, or even a dedicated app. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Creating Your Family Tree: From Scribbles to Structure

Once you’ve collected a good amount of information, it’s time to start organizing it. This is where your inner librarian gets to shine!

• Basic Chart Time: Start with yourself, then add your parents, grandparents, and so on. You can use a free online template, a fancy genealogy software, or even just a big piece of paper. Whatever works for you!
• Consistent Format is Key: Make sure to write down each person’s full name, birthdate, marriage date, and death date if applicable, and places like birth place, resident places. Use a consistent format for dates (e.g., YYYY-MM-DD) to avoid confusion later on.
• Organize, Organize, Organize!: Whether you’re using a digital database or a paper chart, organize your information in a clear and logical way. This will make it much easier to navigate and update as you uncover more details.

By completing these initial steps, you’ll have a solid foundation for your genealogical adventure. And who knows, you might just uncover a Pocahontas connection along the way!

6. Leveraging Online Genealogical Resources: Your Digital Detective Kit

The internet: it’s not just for cat videos and arguing about whether pineapple belongs on pizza. Turns out, it’s also a treasure trove for anyone digging into their family history! Think of it as your personal time machine, ready to whisk you back through generations with just a few clicks.

Exploring Ancestry Websites/Genealogical Databases: Choosing Your Adventure

So, where do you even begin? Well, there’s a whole bunch of ancestry websites and genealogical databases out there, each with its own quirks and features. It’s like choosing a streaming service – you gotta find the one that fits your needs!

• Ancestry.com: This is the big kahuna, the one most people think of first. It’s got a massive collection of records, plus tools to build your family tree and connect with other researchers. But, all that historical goodness comes at a price (subscription). It’s worth to note that the subscription comes in varying packages of *different prices and coverages*.

• FamilySearch: This one is run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and it’s completely free! Yep, you read that right. They’ve got tons of records, and it’s a great place to start your search without spending a dime.

• MyHeritage: This platform is particularly strong if you have roots in Europe. It offers DNA testing as well as a huge database of records, though like Ancestry.com, it generally requires a subscription for full access.

Before diving in, take a moment to compare these platforms. What records are they specialized in? What kind of subscription model do they offer? Some let you pay as you go, while others require a monthly fee. Find the platform that’s the most suitable for your budget and research goals.

Accessing Digitized Records and Databases: Unearthing Hidden Gems

Okay, you’ve picked your platform. Now it’s time to dig! One of the coolest things about online resources is the sheer volume of digitized records at your fingertips. We’re talking birth certificates, marriage licenses, death records, census data, military records, immigration papers… the list goes on and on!

• Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates: These are genealogical gold! They can give you crucial info about your ancestors’ lives, like their exact date and place of birth, the names of their parents, and their occupation.

• Census Records: These records are taken every ten years and can tell you where your ancestors lived, who they lived with, their ages, and even their occupation! It’s like a snapshot of their life at a particular moment in time.

• Military Records: If you had ancestors who served in the military, these records can be a goldmine of information. You might find out what wars they fought in, what rank they achieved, and even details about their physical appearance.

• Immigration Documents: Did your ancestors come from another country? Immigration records can tell you when they arrived, where they came from, and even why they decided to make the move.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different search terms and filters. Sometimes, all it takes is a little creativity to unearth a hidden gem. Happy hunting!

7. Delving into Historical Societies and Archives: Unearthing Hidden Gems

Okay, so you’re ready to ditch the comfy chair and the glow of your laptop screen? Awesome! Because sometimes, the real genealogical gold isn’t found online, but tucked away in the hushed halls of historical societies and archives. Think of it as becoming a history detective, Indiana Jones style, but with less booby traps and more dusty documents. Ready for your quest?

Visiting Historical Societies/Archives: Your Treasure Map

First, you need to figure out where to even start digging. The key is to identify institutions relevant to your ancestral stomping grounds. Did your ancestors hail from a specific region? Zero in on historical societies and archives in that area.

Before you even think about hopping in the car (or booking a flight!), do your homework. Most institutions have online catalogs detailing their collections. Scour these catalogs for anything that might relate to your family. Trust me; a little prep goes a long way. Also, check their policies! Are there specific hours? Do you need an appointment? Can you take photos (without flash, of course!)? Knowing this ahead of time will save you from unnecessary frustration.

Exploring Documents in The Library of Virginia: A Gold Mine of Information

If you’re seriously gunning for that Pocahontas connection, The Library of Virginia is basically your genealogical promised land. Their online catalog is a treasure trove.

Once you’ve identified some potentially juicy records, don’t be shy! Consult with the archivists. These are the keepers of knowledge, the librarians of lineage. They can offer invaluable assistance in locating materials and navigating the archives.

Examining Primary Sources and Artifacts: Reading Between the Lines

Now for the fun part: getting your hands on real historical documents. As you pore over these primary sources, pay attention to the details. Analyze the handwriting, look for signatures and seals. These can offer clues about the document’s authenticity and the people involved. Also, consider the social context. What was daily life like at the time? What were the prevailing attitudes and beliefs?

The Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (Preservation Virginia): Guardians of the Past

Another key player in Virginia’s historical scene is the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities, now known as Preservation Virginia. This organization is dedicated to preserving Virginia’s rich history through its stewardship of historic sites and collections.

Consider exploring Preservation Virginia’s website or even visiting one of their sites. Their resources might contain valuable information or artifacts that can help you piece together the puzzle of your potential Pocahontas lineage. They might have information about related families, properties, or historical events that shed light on the broader context of your research.

Tracing the Rolfe Family Lineage: A Critical Step

So, you’ve caught the Pocahontas ancestry bug, huh? That’s awesome! But before you start picturing yourself in a Disney movie (we’ve all been there!), let’s talk about a super important step: Tracing the Rolfe Family Lineage. Why Rolfe, you ask? Well, remember Pocahontas’s son, Thomas Rolfe? He’s the key. Think of him as the progenitor – the starting point for a whole branch of the family tree.

Following the Descendants of Thomas Rolfe

Alright, let’s get practical. How do we actually find these Rolfe descendants?

• Research Published Genealogies of the Rolfe Family: Start digging! There are genealogies that have already been compiled about the Rolfe family. These are like pre-made maps, showing you where others have already explored. Look for books, articles, and online resources dedicated to the Rolfe family history. These can offer clues and connections you might otherwise miss.
• Look for Records Connecting Your Ancestors to Known Rolfe Descendants: This is where the detective work gets serious. You need to connect your family tree to one of those Rolfe branches. Search for names, dates, and locations that overlap between your family’s history and the documented Rolfe lineage. Think of it like matching puzzle pieces – the more you find that fit, the stronger your case!

Identifying Potential Links to Your Family Tree

Okay, you’ve got some Rolfe info. Now, let’s see if there’s a connection to your family:

• Compare Names, Dates, and Places Between Your Family Tree and the Rolfe Family Tree: Get those family trees side-by-side. Are there any shared names? Any birthdays or anniversaries that are close? Did your family live in the same areas as the Rolfe family? These are breadcrumbs that can lead you closer to the truth.
• Look for Common Ancestors or Shared Migration Patterns: Sometimes, the connection isn’t direct. Maybe your family and the Rolfe family share a common ancestor from even further back. Or perhaps both families migrated along the same routes, settling in similar areas. These shared patterns can be indirect evidence of a connection, even if you can’t find a direct link.

Tracing the Rolfe family is not just about names and dates. It’s about understanding the flow of history and the movements of people. If you approach it like a fascinating puzzle – and celebrate every small victory along the way – you might just uncover an amazing piece of your own story. Happy hunting!

Verifying Your Connection: Documentation and Expert Consultation

So, you’ve tumbled down the rabbit hole of family history, and the tantalizing possibility of Pocahontas in your family tree is dangling before you. Awesome! But before you start commissioning a family crest with a raccoon on it (a nod to her name, Matoaka), let’s pump the brakes and talk verification. This isn’t about dashing dreams; it’s about grounding them in reality. Like any good detective story, the key is meticulous documentation and seeking expert help when needed.

Documenting Your Findings: Show Your Work!

Imagine presenting a half-eaten sandwich as evidence in court. Not gonna fly, right? Genealogy is the same. You can’t just declare yourself a descendant based on a hunch. You’ve got to show your work!

• Create a Detailed Family History Report: This is your magnum opus, your genealogical “War and Peace.” It’s where you lay out EVERYTHING. Think of it as your family’s story brought to life with dates, names, and places.
  Include every document you looked at, every connection you made, and yes, even the dead ends you encountered. Be sure to analyze it all, too, and explain why you think your data is important.

• Citing Sources and Evidence: Give Credit Where Credit is Due: This is crucial. If you’re borrowing information, you need to say where you got it from. Think of it like citing your sources in a school paper – no plagiarism allowed in the family history game! Here are a few tips:

  • Use a Consistent Citation Style: Pick a style (Chicago, MLA, even APA if you’re feeling academic!) and stick to it. The goal is clarity and consistency.
  • Provide Full Bibliographic Information for All Sources: Name of the book, article, website, archive – the works! Think of it as leaving a trail of breadcrumbs so anyone can follow your journey.

Consulting with Experts: When to Call in the Pros

Sometimes, you hit a brick wall. A name is misspelled, a record is lost, or you just can’t seem to bridge that gap. That’s where the experts come in! Think of them as your genealogy superheroes.

• Hiring a Professional Genealogist: Unleash the Family History Ninjas: These folks are like the special forces of family research.

  • Research their Credentials and Experience: Not all genealogists are created equal. Look for certifications (like those from the Board for Certification of Genealogists) and areas of specialization.
  • Discuss their Fees and Services: Genealogy services can range from simple record lookups to in-depth family reconstructions. Know what you’re paying for upfront.

• Seeking Advice from Historical Societies: Your Local History Gurus: These organizations are goldmines of local knowledge and resources. Don’t be afraid to tap into their expertise!

  • Attend Workshops and Lectures: Learn new research techniques, discover hidden resources, and connect with other enthusiasts.
  • Consult with their Research Staff: Many societies have volunteers or staff who are experts in local history and genealogy. They can point you to relevant records, archives, and other resources.

By meticulously documenting your findings and seeking expert guidance when needed, you’ll ensure that your quest for a Pocahontas connection is not only exciting but also built on a solid foundation of evidence. Happy hunting!

Navigating Challenges and Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Genealogy, that fun-filled quest to unearth your past, isn’t always smooth sailing. More like a bumpy treasure hunt where the map is faded and half the landmarks have moved. Don’t worry, every family detective faces a few hilarious (and sometimes frustrating) stumbling blocks. Here’s your guide to dodging those genealogical banana peels!

Dealing with Incomplete or Inaccurate Records

Ever feel like your ancestors played a giant game of hide-and-seek with the records? You’re not alone! Incomplete or inaccurate records are basically the bread and butter of genealogical head-scratching.

• Cross-reference information from multiple sources. Think of yourself as a historical fact-checker. Got a birth date from a census? Cool! Now see if it matches the one on the gravestone, a church record, or even a quirky old family letter. Discrepancies can be clues – maybe Grandma shaved a few years off her age for that charming rogue she met in ’42!
• Consider potential biases in historical records. Not everyone was writing history with perfect objectivity. Census takers could misspell names, ministers might exaggerate virtues in obituaries, and official documents sometimes reflected the prevailing prejudices of the time. Keep a skeptical but open mind!

Navigating Name Variations and Spelling Errors

Ah, names! Those slippery little things that change more often than fashion trends. One ancestor might be “Jon” on Monday, “John” on Wednesday, and “Jonathan” by Friday. And that’s before we even get to the spelling errors!

• Search for alternative spellings of surnames. This is where you get to unleash your inner linguist (or at least pretend to be one). Try different phonetic spellings, common misspellings, or even variations based on different languages. Was your family originally French? German? Polish? Knowing that could unlock a whole new world of spelling possibilities.
• Use wildcard searches to account for variations in handwriting or transcription. Many online databases have a wildcard search function (usually an asterisk ““). If you are not sure whether your ancestor’s name is Johnson or Johnston try to use Johnson and you will find both results. Think of it as your genealogical safety net, catching all those little errors that would otherwise slip through the cracks.

11. Ethical Considerations in Genealogical Research

Hey there, fellow family history buffs! So, you’re diving deep into your roots, maybe even hoping to find that Pocahontas connection. That’s awesome! But before you get completely swept away by dusty documents and thrilling discoveries, let’s talk about something super important: ethics. Think of it as the “Golden Rule” of genealogy—treat other people’s stories (and their privacy!) as you’d want yours treated.

Respecting the Privacy of Living Individuals: It’s Not All About You!

Let’s be real, digging up dirt on your ancestors can be fascinating. But when it comes to living relatives, things get a little trickier. Remember, everyone deserves their privacy. Just because you’re curious about Aunt Mildred’s past doesn’t give you the right to blast her secrets all over the internet.

• Obtain Consent Before Sharing: This is HUGE. Before you start posting family photos, juicy stories, or even just names and dates of living relatives, ask for their permission. A simple “Hey, I’m working on the family tree, would you be okay if I included some info about you?” can go a long way.

• Redact Sensitive Information: Found a document with someone’s social security number or medical history? Cover it up! You wouldn’t want your private info plastered everywhere, so extend the same courtesy to your family. Think of it as digital duct tape for privacy.

Avoiding Cultural Appropriation or Misrepresentation: Tread Carefully, My Friend!

Now, let’s talk about cultural sensitivity, especially when tracing ancestry that involves indigenous communities, like our quest for a Pocahontas connection. This isn’t just about finding names and dates; it’s about honoring the stories, traditions, and experiences of an entire culture.

• Approach Indigenous History with Sensitivity and Respect: Do your homework! Learn about the history, customs, and beliefs of the Powhatan people (or any other indigenous group you’re researching) from reliable sources. Don’t rely on Disney movies or outdated textbooks. Look for resources created by and for the community you are studying, especially if you plan to publish anything.

• Avoid Perpetuating Stereotypes or Misrepresenting Cultural Practices: This should be a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating. Don’t make assumptions, don’t perpetuate harmful stereotypes, and don’t misrepresent cultural practices. Remember, you’re a guest in their story, so treat it with the respect it deserves. Authenticity and consultation with the community is key.

Genealogy is about connecting to the past, but it’s also about respecting the present. By keeping these ethical considerations in mind, you can ensure that your research is both rewarding and responsible. Now go forth and discover—but do it with kindness and consideration!

So, while finding out you’re a direct descendant of Pocahontas might be a long shot, digging into your family history can still unearth some pretty amazing stories. Who knows what other interesting characters are hiding in your family tree? Happy hunting!