In this week’s episode of Who Do You Think You Are? R&B superstar Lionel Richie set off to learn about the “giants” in his family – ancestors whose actions helped him succeed. His journey began when he found his great-grandfather’s name on a Social Security application.
Using marriage records, city directories, a diary and a census record from Ancestry.com.au (shown below), Lionel revealed that his great-grandfather was born into slavery but later led an organization that set the stage for Civil Rights.
Lionel was able to find his great grandfather’s resting place and visited the cemetery. Here are some clues to help you find your ancestors’ resting place –
- Death certificates: Look for a cemetery or funeral home from which you can request additional details.
- Military records: Ancestors who served in the military may have been buried in a military cemetery.
- City directories: Locate a home address and then check the same directory for nearby cemeteries.
- Ancestry.com.au family trees: Learn where one family member was buried and you may find other relatives in the same cemetery.
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