Chicago Illinois Genealogy

07/24/2026

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/07/24/what-we-lose-when-the-chicago-branch-of-the-national-archives-closes/

At a time when dubious information runs rampant, we need more — not less — access to our history.

07/06/2026

We are quoted in this article.

The closure of the South Side center will take place “over the next few years” and the records and documents will be relocated, but it’s unclear where and how many employees are affected.

06/25/2026

This is devastating as we have used this repository for over 14 years. Please Share.

PLEASE SHARE - I just learned that the staff at the National Archives in Chicago was informed yesterday that the Chicago facility is expected to close over the next couple of years. The San Francisco facility is also expected to close, with Seattle reportedly being considered as well. Staff was also instructed not to speak with the media about these plans.

As a professional genealogist, I am devastated by this news. For the past 14+ years, we have relied on the National Archives in Chicago to serve our clients. The staff has always been knowledgeable, dedicated, and incredibly helpful. Over the years, I have made many research trips to the Chicago archives, obtaining certified naturalization records, accessing federal census records, photographing Federal Court case files, researching maritime court cases, and locating countless other federal records that simply aren't available elsewhere.

One of my biggest concerns is that the National Archives' online Order Reproductions system has been unreliable of late. In our experience, it often works only about half the time, and we frequently have to submit requests over and over before the system finally accepts them. Losing access to the Chicago research room would make obtaining many federal records significantly more difficult for researchers, attorneys, historians, and families alike.

The National Archives is an irreplaceable resource that preserves our nation's history. I sincerely hope these plans are reconsidered.

Please share if you believe preserving access to our historical records is important.

, Archives, Archives at Chicago

06/08/2026

Informative article about the French and French Canadians in Illinois & Chicago.

The French were latecomers to North America. During the Renaissance, while Britain, Holland, Spain, and Portugal conducted a systematic invasion of the Western Hemisphere, French kings had remained preoccupied with European politics. By the time that Jacques Cartier, in 1534, and Samuel de Champlain...

05/08/2026

As I head to the Chicago History Museum to work on a project for a client, I pass this memorial next-door about the Chicago City cemetery.

03/01/2026

If you have Canadian ancestors and are considering applying for a Canadian Citizenship Certificate due to the changes under Bill C-3, we’re here to help! Recent updates to Canada’s citizenship laws have removed the generational limit and opened the door for many individuals to reclaim citizenship through a recent — or even more distant — Canadian ancestor.

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, we can help you research and document your lineage to support your application. Contact us today for a consultation.

10/22/2025

This entire divorce file from 1934 at the Cook County Archives was burned at the top. I wonder what happened? 

09/10/2025

We are a proud sponsor & the featured Professional Genealogists of the upcoming Naperville Irish Fest on September 19 & 20 in Naperville, Illinois. Contact us directly if you would like to schedule a time during the fest to discuss your Irish Family History Research or Dual Citizenship documentation.

The Naperville Irish Fest is more than just a weekend of entertainment. It is a true celebration of Irish music, culture, history, and community spirit. We are grateful for the chance to stand alongside the West Suburban Irish in making this festival possible helping to keep traditions alive for all to enjoy. Ticket information is available at the link below.

https://wsirish.org/IrishFest

08/14/2025

I just found out yesterday that the Cook County IL Archives (at the Daley Center) will now certify naturalizations dated before Sep 1906. These are the Superior Court or Circuit Court naturalizations that are held at this Cook County IL repository. In the past, the archivist would not certify, but he was able to get legal approval to move forward with this new process.

08/04/2025

The Cook County Clerk's office has a new process when you visit in person to order a vital record. You will now check in at the Kiosk and be assigned a number. They will call your number when the next clerk is available to take your order.