Newspapers and directories can add addresses, activities and announcements to a life history. Use them to develop questions; a name mention needs further identifying evidence.
The method, step by step
- Choose place, period and a title available in a digital library such as Gallica. Record covered issues and gaps. For a directory, identify publication year and territory.
- Test full name, initials and documented variants with occupation or address. If text search fails, browse relevant sections such as announcements or businesses. Record queries and pages consulted.
- Check results on the image and read surrounding text. Separate publication date from event date; notices may be repeated or corrected. Compare spouse, address or occupation.
- Cite title, publication place, date, issue, page and persistent link. Turn the information into a question for civil, census or employment records. Retain the complete page before cropping.
Record in your research log
- Title
- edition
- date
- page
- stated address
- image check.
Frequently asked questions
Why does newspaper search miss a visible name?
Text may be unindexed or misrecognised. Try variants, initials and nearby words, then browse relevant issues. Record title coverage and pages checked before concluding absence.
Sources & references
- Gallica — Bibliothèque nationale de France ↗ (Resource review date : )