Resources
There are a number of resources online and in libraries to help you with your own personal genealogical searches. This list links to some of the more useful sites.
Ancestry.com
Probably the most useful database, Ancestry.com has a variety of subscription options, providing census, vital records, emigration information, directories, and other valuable information. Some public libraries and LDS Family History Centers offer in-person access to Ancestry, which you can enjoy at no cost as long as you have a library card for that institution. LDS Family History Centers provide free access to Ancestry to the general public.
FamilySearch is a scion of the Church of the Latter Day Saints and offers a number of database options, much like Ancestry, but you can use its search engine for free from the comfort of your own home. Some microfilms and microfiche can be viewed off-site, although some require access from a FHL research facility. FHL databases may include collections not available at Ancestry or may offer better copies of records. It's worth checking out
Ellis Island
Ellis Island is worth checking out. Some of our ancestors came through Ellis Island when emigrating to the USA (Raytzel Bellman and her son Max did so). Ellis Island records, beginning from 1892, are now online and images of ship manifests are available. You can sign up for a no-cost registration at the Ellis Island site and search for surnames to find more ancestors. Some images may require payment to download and save. It's worth checking Ancestry and FamilySearch to see whether you can acquire emigration records and passenger manifests for free or ata lower cost.
Steve Morse Castle Garden records
Castle Garden was the processing center for New York immigrants prior to Ellis Island. Records are now available from 1820 through 1913, overlapping occasionally with Ellis Island's era. Searches at Steve Morse records are free. Note also that not all Jewish immigrants came through New York harbor; Baltimore was another popular processing point, as was Galveston, Texas. There were a number of other ports available to immigrants.
JewishGen
JewishGen is a must for anyone beginning the search for Jewish ancestors. Resources are plentiful and free. There's even a mailing list that brings you regular letters from others researching their family trees, with lots of useful tips, translation services, and other options.
Cyndi's List
Cyndi's List site has comprehensive links to all categories of genealogy. Her links for Jewish genealogy are first-rate.
Please let us know if there are any other resources you need.
