New York City Research Fundamentals – Registration

Finding family in the Big Apple can seem like a daunting task. This on-demand New York Family History School course provides attendees with a concrete understanding of New York City’s history, its boroughs, and the essential records and repositories available for research.

Course Fee

  • NYG&B Members: $89
  • General Registration: $99

Please Note: This Family History School course is available for on-demand viewing. Registrants have 60 days from date of purchase to complete this course in its entirety. For example, if you purchase this course on December 15, 2026, you have until February 15, 2027, to complete it.

 


Cover slide for New York City—A Historical Overview for Genealogists

New York City—A Historical Overview for Genealogists

In this session we will: define what New York City means; review historical events (1800–1950); understand the boundaries and wards.

Led by Susan R. Miller


Cover slide for New York City Vital Records

New York City Vital Records

In this session we will: explore what vital records exist (1800–1950); learn to use indexes and other methods to find records; discover how to access records.

Led by Susan R. Miller


Cover slide for Essential New York City Records: Census, Tax, City Directories, and Others

Essential New York City Records: Census, Tax, City Directories, and Others

In this session we will: understand which essential records exist for tracing New York City residents (beyond vital records); discover online resources to find New York City’s essential records; explore on-site repositories that hold New York City’s essential records.

Led by D. Joshua Taylor


Cover slide for Locating and Using Religious Records in New York City

Locating and Using Religious Records in New York City

In this session we will: understand why religious records are important for New York City research; learn to identify potential religious institutions in New York City; explore methods to locate and find religious records related to New York City.

Led by D. Joshua Taylor


Cover slide for Records and Resources of the New York City Municipal Archives

Records and Resources of the New York City Municipal Archives

In this session we will: learn about the Municipal Archives holdings; explore online collections and resources; discover more in-person collections.

Led by Susan R. Miller

 


About the Presenters

D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS, FUGA, is the President of the New York Genealogical & Biographical Society (NYG&B), an organization dedicated to preserving, documenting, and sharing family history and stories from across New York State. A nationally known and recognized genealogist, Joshua was named President of the NYG&B in 2016 and is an Officer, Trustee ex Officio, on NYG&B’s Board of Trustees.

D. Joshua Taylor headshot

 

D. Joshua Taylor headshot

Susan R. Miller is the Director of Publications at the NYG&B. She is also the editor of the NYG&B's award-winning publication the New York Researcher and the managing editor of the New York Family History Research Guide and Gazetteer. Sue has been with the NYG&B for over 25 years, researching her family history in New York and New England.

 


About the NYG&B's New York Family History School

The New York Family History School lets participants learn at their own pace through guided, on-demand sessions focusing on a specific family history topic. Registration includes access to multiple sessions for 60 days, syllabus materials, and a certificate of completion.

See all New York Family History School Courses in 2026.