Currently accepting clients for...

• Family History Research
• Speaking / Presenting
• Other Speciality

Embark on a fascinating journey through time with me as your guide, unraveling the mysteries and treasures of your family's past. In the intricate tapestry of genealogy, I specialize in navigating tangled webs and brick walls, drawing from my experience with Polish and Italian immigrant roots in the United States.

As we delve into your ancestor's narratives, the past comes alive, creating a profound awareness that educates and constructs the pillars of your unique family story. Together, we'll not only uncover the history but also discover the powerful sense of belonging that comes from understanding your truth.

Join me in this rewarding exploration, where the joy of researching immigrant families becomes a collaborative adventure. Together, we'll illuminate connections and foster a deep appreciation for the stories that shape us. Ready to embark on your journey of discovery? Contact me for a consultation, and let's bring your family history to life. Your story is waiting to be told; I'm here to help you tell it.

Geographic Specialities

• Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus, Ohio
• Denver, Colorado
• Detroit, Michigan
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• San Antonio, Texas
• Santa Fe, New Mexico

Testimonials
Although the report on my family roots was interrupted by COVID and took three years, Sara's research was thorough and well-documented. Along with my family history, the report included a section describing the political and cultural environment of the area in which my grandparents and great-grandparents lived. ~ Virginia Wilson

5 Stars all the way for Sara! My husband and I wanted our home's history researched to see how it would impact a potential Historical Designation. We really didn't have much concrete, factual information to provide to her. Nonetheless, within a week or so, Sara had answers for us and information we would have never known. Detailed, timely, and accurate. Her expertise is amazing!! We highly recommend Sara and Descent Detective. ~ Vicki Kelley

If you are looking for a true professional who is passionate about genealogy or house history, you've come to the right place. Sara is extremely knowledgeable and efficient and serves her clients well. Sara's expertise, experience, and heart create a truly positive experience for those who work with her. I highly recommend her. ~ Donna Evans

Descent Detective did a very thorough job on my family research. She proved the information that I already had and was able to trace my family back to Scotland. She is very professional and produced a report for me in a very timely manner that cited all of her research! It was a pleasure to work with her, and I will be having her start on the other side of my family tree very soon! ~Sara Michie

Sara helped me complete a 5-year journey to document my family's Italian heritage and obtain my dual citizenship with Italy. She found family details deep within my northwest Denver roots to trace my grandparents' immigration and settlement in America. I could not have achieved dual citizenship without Sara's guidance and assistance. I would highly recommend Sara Dawson and Descent Detective, LLC. ~ Peggy

Additional specialities or search keywords
Polish-American, Italian-American, Catholic, Federal Records

Publications/Media

• The Dead Files, Season 15, Episode 8; Nowhere To Hide
• Coming Soon: Denver Arson Society: A Fiery Tale of Conspiracy, Arson, and Colfax in the 1890s

Lectures

• Getting Started in Genealogy
• Researching Using AncestryLibrary Edition
• Researching in FamilySearch
• DNA Basics and Your Genetic Family Tree
• Deep Dive: Passenger Lists
• É di Famiglia: It Runs in the Family, Researching Your Italian Immigrant Ancestors
• Research Plans and Source Documentation
• Intro to the 1950 Census
• Researching the History of Your Home

Repositories

• Colorado Historical Society
• Colorado State Archives
• Denver City & County Building
• Denver Public Library Special Collections and Archives
• National Archives, Rocky Mountain Region

Research Time Periods

• 20th Century
• 19th Century
• 18th Century

Languages

• English - Fluent
• Spanish - un poco
• Italian - un po
• French - un petit peu
• Polish - nic

Certificates
Certificate in Genealogical Research (Boston University)

Affiliations

• Association of Professional Genealogists, Colorado Chapter
• National Genealogical Society
• Colorado Genealogical Society
• Polish Genealogical Society of America
• Polish Genealogical Society of Michigan
• Detroit Society for Genealogical Research
• Ohio Genealogical Society

Degrees
Bachelor of Arts, History (University of Northern Colorado)

Documents
What could be better than homemade meatballs?
Staying Warm this Winter
Genealogy is Like a Puzzle