Family Tree Colorado is a genealogy research center and collection, most notably the one operated by the Denver Public Library, that provides free access to a vast array of records for tracing ancestors in Colorado and the broader Rocky Mountain region. It is a premier resource for anyone researching family history connected to the state, offering everything from census records and obituaries to specialized collections on mining, ranching, and early pioneers.
Background and History of the Collection
The Family Tree collection at the Denver Public Library is one of the largest and most comprehensive genealogy collections in the western United States. Its roots go back to the early 20th century when the library began collecting local history materials. Over the decades, the collection has grown through donations, purchases, and partnerships with organizations like the Colorado Genealogical Society. The name “Family Tree” became synonymous with the library’s genealogy department, which is now housed on the fifth floor of the main library building in downtown Denver. The collection is particularly strong in resources for the Mountain West, including Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Utah, but also includes significant national and international materials.
What You Can Find in the Collection
The Family Tree collection is not a single database but a vast physical and digital archive. Key resources include:
- Census Records: Complete federal census records for Colorado from 1870 through 1950, as well as many state and territorial censuses.
- Newspapers: An extensive collection of digitized Colorado newspapers, many of which are searchable online, providing obituaries, birth announcements, and local news.
- City Directories: A nearly complete run of Denver city directories from the 1870s to the present, invaluable for tracking ancestors year by year.
- County Records: Microfilmed and digitized records from many Colorado counties, including probate, land, and court records.
- Special Collections: Unique materials like mining claim records, railroad employee records, and pioneer association files.
These resources allow researchers to document ancestors who lived in Colorado, whether they were early gold rush miners, homesteaders, or later urban migrants.
How to Use Family Tree Colorado
Accessing the Family Tree collection is straightforward. The physical collection is open to the public during library hours, and the staff are known for their expertise in western genealogy. For remote research, the Denver Public Library offers a dedicated genealogy website with many digitized resources. Here are the basic steps to get started:
- Start with the library’s online catalog and digital collections portal to search for specific records or browse by topic.
- If you find a relevant item, note its call number and location, or request it through interlibrary loan if you cannot visit in person.
- For on-site research, ask at the 5th-floor reference desk for guidance; the librarians can help you navigate the microfilm collection and suggest specific record groups.
- Use the free Wi-Fi and public computers to access subscription databases like Ancestry Library Edition, which is available for free within the library.
The library also offers regular classes and workshops on genealogy research, from beginner to advanced levels.
Digital Access and Online Resources
A significant portion of the Family Tree collection is available online. The Denver Public Library’s website hosts several digital collections, including:
- Western History and Genealogy Digital Collections: Thousands of photographs, maps, and documents.
- Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection: A searchable database of over 100 digitized newspapers from across the state, spanning the 1850s to the 1920s.
- Genealogy Databases: The library provides access to subscription databases like Ancestry Library Edition, Fold3, and HeritageQuest, but these are only accessible from within the library or with a library card.
These online resources make it possible to do substantial research from home, though some databases require an in-person visit.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Researching Colorado ancestors comes with unique challenges. One common issue is the state’s relatively late statehood (1876), meaning many early records are territorial or county-based. Another is the mobility of early settlers; many came for mining or ranching and then moved on, leaving scattered records. To overcome these challenges:
- Search for ancestors in both Colorado and neighboring states, as families often crossed borders.
- Use city directories to fill gaps between census years.
- Consult mining and land records, which often contain detailed personal information.
- Check the library’s vertical files and manuscript collections for family histories and local histories that may mention your ancestor.
Librarians can also help you interpret records that are handwritten or damaged.
Comparing Family Tree Colorado to Other Resources
Family Tree Colorado is often compared to national genealogy sites like Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.org. While those sites offer vast databases, they often lack the deep local focus that Family Tree Colorado provides. For example, Ancestry.com has federal census records, but the Denver Public Library has a more complete set of Colorado city directories and local newspapers. FamilySearch.org is free and has many records, but it does not have the same level of curated Colorado-specific collections. The library’s advantage is its combination of unique local materials and expert staff who know the history and records of the region.
Costs and Accessibility
Using the Family Tree collection is completely free. The Denver Public Library is a public institution, and no fees are charged for access to the physical collection or the library’s own digital resources. The only costs may be for printing or copying documents. Access to subscription databases like Ancestry Library Edition is also free when using the library’s computers or Wi-Fi. However, remote access to these subscription databases is not available; you must be in the library to use them. This is a key consideration for out-of-state researchers, who may need to plan a visit or use interlibrary loan services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Denver Public Library card to use Family Tree Colorado?
No, the physical collection is open to all visitors. However, a library card is required to access some online resources from home, and it is free for Colorado residents. Out-of-state visitors can use the resources on-site without a card.
Can I get help with my research remotely?
Yes, the library offers a genealogy reference service via email. You can submit a question through their website, and a librarian will respond with suggestions and resources. They cannot do extensive research for you, but they can point you in the right direction.
Are there records from other states in the collection?
Yes, while the focus is on Colorado and the West, the collection includes national records like federal censuses and military records, as well as some international resources, particularly for European ancestry.
Is there a way to search the collection online before visiting?
Yes, the library’s online catalog and digital collections are searchable from anywhere. You can search for specific names, places, or record types to see what is available before you visit.
Does Family Tree Colorado have records from the Colorado State Archives?
No, the State Archives is a separate institution. However, the library has microfilm copies of many county and state records, and staff can help you identify what is available and where to find it.
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