How to Write an Effective Genealogy Query
- SURNAME: Put the surname in bold or ALL CAPS.
- DATES + PLACES: Give dates (or approximate dates) and locations.
- READABLE: Use normal capitalization—ALL CAPS can be hard to read.
- BRIEF: Keep it focused. Share the key problem, not your entire tree.
- CONTEXT: Include spouses, parents, neighbors, or a specific record you’re seeking.
Tip: When you post, include “Fairfax County, Virginia” in the first line so the right eyes find you.
Where to Post Your Query
Fairfax Co., VAGenWeb Query Group (Official)
Primary place to post Fairfax County queries for this site.
Virginia Genealogy Research at GenHeritage
Virginia-wide community—helpful when your Fairfax line crosses county lines.
VA-ROOTS (Library of Virginia discussion list)
Email discussion list for Virginia genealogy and family history research.
Loudoun County, Virginia Genealogy (Facebook)
Great for Northern Virginia crossover families and migration paths.
Prince William County, VA Genealogy and History (Facebook)
Helpful when your research overlaps early Fairfax/Prince William boundaries or neighbors.
These are free, public-access communities focused on Fairfax, nearby Northern Virginia counties, or Virginia-wide research.