Adoption Resources

One of the sturdiest brick walls you can come across in your genealogy research is an adoption. Between all the legal red tape of modern-day adoptions, and the cultural attitude towards it in past years, this can be an almost impossible hurdle to overcome.

Whether you yourself are adopted, or someone else in your tree was, you may have your work cut out for you to continue building your family tree past that point.

All About Adoption Research - A great article that gives a thorough overview of adoption research. She lists the documents you'll need to look for and offers some other places that you might need to visit to continue your search.

How to Start Searching - Several steps you will need to take when looking for your birth parents. Most of these tips are only relevant if you are the adopted person you are researching. Still, very helpful.

Adoption Reunion Registry - A reunion registry, where you can hopefully make some contact with other biological family members.

Shea's Search Series - The definitive guide to self-empowered adoptee search. A set of very detailed articles on finding your birth family. Everything you need to know, from start to finish.

Cyndi's List for Adoption - A massive collection of links to sites, mailing lists and professionals that you might need as you begin your adoptive genealogy search. The location-specific section is very helpful for resources that my be particular to your state or region.

GenForum for Adoption - Get networking with other genealogists with adoption issues. Remember, these people aren't experts when it comes to adoption, but you might get some unique tips on the subject from a genealogy perspective.

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