Brick walls stymy our research when we can go no further. The video presents a methodology for organizing all the evidence you have acquired, re-reading it as if you have never seen it before, and creating a written biographical profile based on what you know. You’ll identify important gaps that must be researched, conflicting evidence, and begin to think like your ancestor. You will add other people’s information, events at the local, national, and international levels, and personal details. You will learn how to effectively build a biographical context and then identify information to develop an expanded research plan. Say farewell to many brick walls and hello to completely new insights.
This webinar was first released 14 November 2019 on the Genealogy Guys Learn website.
In the highly acclaimed Genealogy Guys Learn webinar “Bring ’Em Back to Life: Creating an Ancestor Profile,” professional genealogist George G. Morgan shared an in-depth, methodical approach to one of genealogy’s most powerful problem-solving tools—the ancestor profile. With decades of research experience, Morgan demonstrated how compiling a chronological and contextual biography of an ancestor can reveal gaps, resolve conflicts, and transform disconnected records into a vivid, cohesive life story. His practical, encouraging presentation offered both inspiration and a detailed step-by-step guide for breaking through genealogical brick walls.
Key Takeaways:
The Power of Context and Chronology: Morgan explained that genealogical breakthroughs often come not from new sources, but from reorganizing existing evidence. An ancestor profile brings together every piece of information—documents, family stories, artifacts—into chronological order, allowing researchers to visualize patterns, migrations, and relationships that previously went unnoticed. This process not only clarifies timelines but also helps identify gaps in the record that guide future research.
Methodology and Organization: Creating an effective profile begins with gathering all known materials, verifying facts, and citing every source to assess reliability. Morgan encouraged using a word processor to build a structured outline with space for notes, revisions, and historical context. Each event—births, moves, occupations, marriages, and deaths—should be documented with accompanying evidence. He also advised incorporating wider influences such as wars, economic downturns, and social or religious changes that shaped an ancestor’s life decisions.
Turning Research into Storytelling: Beyond analysis, Morgan emphasized that ancestor profiles can form the foundation of biographical sketches or family narratives. By examining not just one person but also their parents, siblings, spouses, and children, genealogists can better understand relationships, motivations, and community ties. He reminded researchers that contextual details—like land records, obituaries, religious affiliations, or migration patterns—bring dimension to the facts and help “bring ancestors back to life.”
Throughout the session, Morgan’s examples—from a 19th-century school receipt to multi-generational migration case studies—illustrated how small scraps of evidence can unlock larger family stories. His closing reminder resonated deeply: “No one dies as long as they are remembered and talked about.”
For genealogists determined to overcome research roadblocks or transform data into meaningful family histories, the full webinar offers hands-on demonstrations, templates, and expert insights into building, refining, and using ancestor profiles effectively. Don’t forget to explore the accompanying syllabus, which includes a detailed methodology outline, recommended resources, and additional study materials designed to help you organize, interpret, and share your family’s stories with lasting impact.
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