12+ Independent Obituary Notices To Find Ancestors

Independent obituary notices can be a treasure trove of information for those searching for their ancestors. These notices, often published in local newspapers or online platforms, provide a wealth of details about the deceased, including their name, age, residence, occupation, and family members. In this article, we will explore 12 independent obituary notices that can help you find your ancestors, along with tips and resources to aid in your search.

Firstly, let’s discuss the importance of obituary notices in genealogical research. Obituaries can provide valuable information about an individual’s life, including their birth and death dates, marriage details, and names of surviving family members. This information can be used to build a family tree, connect with distant relatives, and gain insight into the lives of our ancestors.

One of the most significant advantages of independent obituary notices is that they are often published by local communities, providing a unique perspective on the deceased’s life. These notices may include personal anecdotes, stories, and memories that are not typically found in official records. For example, an obituary notice for a local businessman might include details about his community involvement, charitable work, and personal achievements.

To illustrate the value of independent obituary notices, let’s consider a few examples. The following 12 notices demonstrate the diversity and richness of information that can be found in these publications:

1. The New York Times: This renowned newspaper has been publishing obituary notices since 1851, providing a vast archive of information about notable individuals, including politicians, artists, and business leaders.
2. The London Gazette: As the official newspaper of the UK government, The London Gazette has been publishing obituary notices since 1665, offering a unique perspective on the lives of British citizens, including military personnel, politicians, and members of the nobility.
3. The Irish Times: This Irish newspaper has been publishing obituary notices since 1859, providing valuable information about Irish citizens, including those who emigrated to other countries.
4. The Sydney Morning Herald: As one of Australia’s oldest newspapers, The Sydney Morning Herald has been publishing obituary notices since 1831, offering insights into the lives of Australian citizens, including those who arrived as convicts or free settlers.
5. The Toronto Star: This Canadian newspaper has been publishing obituary notices since 1892, providing information about Canadian citizens, including those who immigrated from other countries.
6. The Scotsman: As one of Scotland’s oldest newspapers, The Scotsman has been publishing obituary notices since 1817, offering a unique perspective on the lives of Scottish citizens, including those who emigrated to other countries.
7. The Evening Post: This New Zealand newspaper has been publishing obituary notices since 1865, providing valuable information about New Zealand citizens, including those who arrived as settlers or immigrants.
8. The Cape Times: As one of South Africa’s oldest newspapers, The Cape Times has been publishing obituary notices since 1876, offering insights into the lives of South African citizens, including those who arrived as colonizers or immigrants.
9. The Bombay Times: This Indian newspaper has been publishing obituary notices since 1838, providing information about Indian citizens, including those who were part of the British colonial administration.
10. The China Daily: As one of China’s leading English-language newspapers, The China Daily has been publishing obituary notices since 1981, offering a unique perspective on the lives of Chinese citizens, including those who have made significant contributions to the country’s development.
11. The Japan Times: This Japanese newspaper has been publishing obituary notices since 1897, providing valuable information about Japanese citizens, including those who have made significant contributions to the country’s culture, economy, or politics.
12. The Australian: As one of Australia’s leading newspapers, The Australian has been publishing obituary notices since 1964, offering insights into the lives of Australian citizens, including those who have made significant contributions to the country’s development.

In addition to these examples, there are many online platforms and resources that provide access to independent obituary notices. Some of the most popular include:

• Legacy.com: A comprehensive online archive of obituary notices from newspapers and funeral homes around the world.
• Obituaries.com: A searchable database of obituary notices from the United States and Canada.
• FindAGrave.com: A website that allows users to search for and create virtual memorials for deceased individuals, including obituary notices and other biographical information.
• GenealogyBank.com: A subscription-based website that provides access to historical newspapers, including obituary notices, from the United States.

When searching for independent obituary notices, it’s essential to use a combination of online and offline resources. Start by searching online archives and databases, such as those mentioned above. You can also visit local libraries, archives, and genealogical societies to access historical newspapers and other records.

In conclusion, independent obituary notices can be a valuable resource for those searching for their ancestors. By exploring these notices, you can gain insights into the lives of your ancestors, connect with distant relatives, and build a more comprehensive family tree. Remember to use a combination of online and offline resources, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box when searching for obituary notices.

By following these tips and resources, you can unlock the secrets of independent obituary notices and discover new information about your ancestors. Remember to approach your search with patience, persistence, and creativity, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box when exploring these valuable resources.