Page "Genealogy" Paragraph 7

Genealogical research in the United States was first systematized in the early 19th century, especially by John Farmer ( 1789 – 1838 ).

Before Farmer's efforts, tracing one's genealogy was seen as an attempt by colonists to secure a measure of social standing within the British Empire, an aim that was counter to the new republic's egalitarian, future-oriented ethos.

As Fourth of July celebrations commemorating the Founding Fathers and the heroes of the Revolutionary War became increasingly popular, however, the pursuit of ' antiquarianism ,' which focused on local history, became acceptable as a way to honor the achievements of early Americans.

Farmer capitalized on the acceptability of antiquarianism to frame genealogy within the early republic's ideological framework of pride in one's American ancestors.

He corresponded with other antiquarians in New England, where antiquarianism and genealogy were well established, and became a coordinator, booster, and contributor to the growing movement.

In the 1820s, he and fellow antiquarians began to produce genealogical and antiquarian tracts in earnest, slowly gaining a devoted audience among the American people.

Though Farmer died in 1839, his efforts led to the creation of the New England Historic Genealogical Society ( NEHGS ), one of New England's oldest and most prominent organizations dedicated to the preservation of public records.

NEHGS publishes the New England Historical and Genealogical Register.