slektsforskere

Slektsforskere are researchers who specialize in tracing family history and lineage. They collect, assess, and organize records to reconstruct genealogies and biographical details of individuals and families. They may work independently, as volunteers, or as members of genealogical societies and archives.

Methods used by slektsforskere include primary and secondary sources such as kirkebøker (church books), folkeregister, censuses, probate records, emigration and immigration manifests, military records, school registers, and newspapers. They apply source criticism to evaluate reliability, date, origin, and possible aliases, and they build family trees, timelines, and fan charts to visualize connections.

Digital era: The availability of online databases and digital archives has expanded access to genealogical information. In Norway, resources such as Digitalarkivet and the Arkivverket provide digitized parish records, censuses, emigration records, and other documents. International research often relies on databases like FamilySearch, Ancestry, and MyHeritage. DNA testing can support research but should be used cautiously to avoid misinterpretation.

Ethics and privacy: Slektsforskere follow ethical guidelines regarding living individuals, consent, and data protection laws, particularly for sensitive records. They cite sources and distinguish between documented facts and speculation.

Role and significance: They contribute to local history, cultural heritage, and personal identity. They may publish findings, collaborate with historians, librarians, and archivists, or teach beginners, helping others understand their family backgrounds and connections.