The fascinating search for ancestors can be particularly rewarding for people of Italian descent. Centuries of family history are documented in a variety of records that reflect the renowned family unity and long history of the Italian people.
Trafford Cole's Italian Genealogical Records covers Italian records in extensive detail that only a genealogists of his experience could provide. Cole discusses the history and development of Italian record keeping, and he describes the records themselves--the civil vital records, ecclesiastical records, and others, such as notary and military records--that can be found in repositories throughout Italy, providing reproductions of typical records and a complete translation and thorough explanation of each.
Cole also discusses the unique aspects of research using Italian sources: how to approach the task of obtaining information, wherever it may be found. Sample letters for obtaining records through correspondence allow you to go directly to the sources of the information you need. The significance of Italian surnames and the relevance of Italian noble families in the search for family history are also covered in this detailed guide.
Filled with practical advice that will help anyone obtain the information they seek through Italian records and record sources, Italian Genealogical Records is a comprehensive guide to the complexities and nuances of what could otherwise be a daunting task.
Contents:
Part 1: Introduction to Italy and Italian Records
1. Introduction
2. History of Italy and Italian Record Sources
3. Meaning and Origin of Italian Surnames
4. Noble Families
Part 2: The Records
5. Civil Vital Records
6. Napoleonic Civil Records
7. Parish Records
8. Alternative Ecclesiastical Records
9. Alternative Records Sources
Part 3: Research
10. Research Procedures
11. Research by Correspondence
12. Reading the Records
Appendix A: Addresses of the Italian State Archives
Appendix B: Addresses of the Diocese Seats
Glossary of Italian Terms
Bibliography
Index
