Uncover Your Family's Past

Have you ever wondered about your family’s history? With the rise of DNA testing and a growing curiosity about ancestral roots, more people than ever are embarking on the journey of tracing their lineage. If your family has ties to Cambridge, the Cambridge Public Library offers an array of free genealogy resources to help you uncover your past and connect with the stories of those who came before you.

If you’re searching for birth, marriage, or death records, the Cambridge City Clerk’s Office is a great place to start. They maintain records dating back to 1630 and extending to 1848. Additionally, property records from 1630-1829 are available for research.

However, finding historical student records can be challenging. Despite this, there are still many avenues for uncovering valuable family history.

The library provides access to several key databases that can help researchers trace their family history, including:

• The Historic Cambridge Newspaper Collection (1846-2015):
  A rich archive of local newspapers featuring articles, announcements, and obituaries.

• City directories (1848-1972):
  These provide details on residents, businesses, government offices, and civic
  organizations.

• Poll lists from 1904 and 1932-1947:
  Voter registration records for both men and women.

Another useful resource is the Cambridge city directories, which list residents and their occupations dating back to 1848. Additionally, the Cambridge City Clerk’s Office maintains official records of marriages, births, and deaths, offering another avenue for tracing family lineage.

Many of these resources are available online, making it easier than ever to conduct research from anywhere.

The library also offers access to key genealogy databases, including:

• Ancestry.com
• HeritageQuest
• African American Historical Records
• The Cambridge Chronicle Archives

According to Senior Librarian Drew Griffin, the library’s genealogy services exist for a simple yet profound purpose: “to help people find their families.”

Whether you’re just beginning your research or looking for deeper insights into your ancestry, the Cambridge Public Library is an invaluable resource for uncovering your family’s history.

Visit the library today or explore its online resources to start your journey into the past.