Frequently Asked Questions
How can I print the certificate images that you send me? We mail paper copies, but if you want to try printing before the envelope arrives, here's a way to do it using WindowsXP.
How do you do the lookups? We scan records from microfilm at the local Family History Center using a portable microfilm scanner and save the images as JPGs. Then, we straighten the images, crop them, and enhance the brightness/contrast, as needed. We are usually able to get readable images even when records are very light or very dark on the film. We send you links to both an "original" scan and a "contrast enhanced" scan and we try our best to get a clean, readable laser-printed copy to send you through the mail.
How long do lookups take? Usually just a few days. If you don't hear back from us within a few days of submitting your request, email us immediately. Most lookups go smoothly, but if there is a glitch, that's the quickest way for us to discover it and fix it.
How do I know if the form that I used to submit my request actually worked? If you typed your email address correctly on the form, you should receive a confirmation email within a few minutes of sending your request. If you have any doubt about whether or not your request reached us, just email us and ask.
Do you do naturalization research? Property research? Divorce research? Probate research? No. For the moment, we are busy enough with "quick lookups" in other records. For naturalization, probate, and divorce lookups, try Chicago-Cook Genealogy, another "lookup service."
May I telephone you with a request? No. ChicagoGenealogy.com has no telephone number and we do not accept requests or offer consultation by phone. Email lets us work efficiently, which in turn, helps us keep our prices low.
You call yourself a "lookup service." How is that different from a "professional genealogist?" Our goal is to provide quick, reasonably-priced access to documents that match the index entries you've found. If you need someone to formulate and carry out a research plan or if you need certified documents for legal purposes, you will want to find a genealogist or other professional to help.
Why do you have the links to the Family History Library Catalog on your web pages? One of our website goals is to provide you with detailed information about the Chicago/Cook records that are available through Family History Centers. The Family History Center that we visit has many of these records on microfilm, making it possible for us to do quick lookups, but these films can be requested through any Family History Centers worldwide. We provide the catalog links to make it easy for those of you who would like to order films to do your own research.
What's your mailing address?
ChicagoGenealogy.com
PO Box 174
Wilmette, IL, 60091
I want to use PayPal. What email address should I send payment to?
chicagogenealogy@comcast.net