When beginning to research my Iroquois background...?

Question

What advice do you have or where is the best place to start? As you can tell, I'm new to the geneaology search and looking for help. Thanks...and for the record, I do have proof that I am part Iroquois but want to go back as far as I can.

Answer 1

My usual advice is to CONCENTRATE on individuals, since each of your ancestors are unique (and will have different approaches).  Far too many persons believe that since genealogy is "just a hobby" that proof does not matter.. they could not be more wrong, and sounds like you already know this.

http://www.tolatsga.org/iro.html

Here's one (of course, of many) site that has historical background.

At the same time, don't neglect your basic stuff.

http://rwguide.rootsweb.ancestry.com/

For the rest of the ancestors, as well as things that may overlap.

Keep networking, both here, and with persons experienced in Native research.

Answer 2

Genealogy is a huge field. There are people and groups who specialize in Native American; African-American; Adoptees, every ethnicity imaginable.

These are all on the Internet; and you can search for them. They are helpful. I will also suggest that if you live near a middle-sized city, join the local Genealogical Society, and deal with REAL experienced people.

Check out:

http://www.cyndislist.com/

Good luck, and happy hunting. I've starred your question. I expect the pros to respond with more specific information than I can give. Check this section frequently; the pros here are very helpful Yamsters and Class A genealogists...

Answer 3

Native American Arts is an authentic American Indian arts & crafts store which also deals with geneaology of different tribes. The owner is from the Winnebago tribe of Wisconsin. I can't recall the official name of the tribe which begins with an "H",Winnebago was the false name the U.S. labeled them.There weblink is www. catchyourdreams.com. Ironically, their tribe at one time was a part of the Iroquois as well as the Shawnee. I have a small fraction of Shawnee & my wife has larger percentage of Cherokee. Yea, I would check with these people because since the U.S. moved tribes around during the 19th century, there might not be any written records. However,most native americans have kept their heritage within their own communities and perhaps passed down from one generation to another. Just a thought & good luck on your journey.