Cayman Islands GENEALOGY
JOURNEY WITH US.
A research guide to ancestry, family history, and genealogy resources for the Cayman Islands.
Uncover with Ancestors of Paradise the untold stories of your Caymanian ancestors!
”From Anegada to Virgin Gorda, tour the Caribbean in this gorgeous site packed with resources, historical photos and videos…”
101 Best Genealogy Websites of 2024
Family Tree Magazine
records.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through census records, court records, deeds, naturalization records, military records, ship passenger lists as well as birth, marriage, and death records.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
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Cayman Islands National Archive
The National Archive collects, preserves and facilitates access to our Islands’ documentary heritage, including photos, maps, films, audio recordings, newspapers, magazines, books, and private records.
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FAMILYSEARCH RESEARCH WIKI | CAYMAN ISLANDS
The FamilySearch Research Wiki is a free, online genealogical guide created and maintained by FamilySearch, a non-profit organization. It contains links to genealogy databases, websites, other resources, research strategies, and genealogical guidance to assist in the search for your ancestors. Articles included are locality pages for countries around the world and topic pages that include pertinent genealogy record types explaining how to use the record, what it contains, and how to find it.
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SHIPINDEX.ORG: A VESSEL RESEARCH DATABASE
ShipIndex.org simplifies vessel research. Whether you’re a genealogist, a maritime historian, a researcher, or just curious, we can help you learn more about the ships that interest you. We tell you which maritime resources, such as books, journals, magazines, newspapers, CD-ROMs, websites, and online databases mention the ships that interest you. We enhance these references by noting which ones include illustrations or crew and passenger lists, and where you can find or purchase the resource.
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SlaveVoyages
The SlaveVoyages website is a collaborative digital initiative that compiles and makes publicly accessible records of the largest slave trades in history. Search these records to learn about the broad origins and forced relocations of more than 12 million African people who were sent across the Atlantic in slave ships, and hundreds of thousands more who were trafficked within the Americas. Explore where they were taken, the numerous rebellions that occurred, the horrific loss of life during the voyages, the identities and nationalities of the perpetrators, and much more.
collections.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through our collection of diverse genealogical resources.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
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ANCESTRY MESSAGE BOARDS | CARIBBEAN
Ancestry message boards contain over 25 million posts on more than 198,000 boards.
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ANCESTRY MESSAGE BOARDS | Cayman Islands
Ancestry message boards contain over 25 million posts on more than 198,000 boards.
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DIGITAL LIBRARY OF THE CARIBBEAN
The Digital Library of the Caribbean is a cooperative digital library for resources from and about the Caribbean & circum-Caribbean.
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THE EARLY CARIBBEAN DIGITAL ARCHIVE
The Early Caribbean Digital Archive is an open access collection of pre-twentieth-century Caribbean texts, maps, and images. Texts include travel narratives, novels, poetry, natural histories, and diaries that have not been brought together before as a single collection focused on the Caribbean. The materials in the archive are primarily authored and published by Europeans, but the ECDA aims to use digital tools to "remix" the archive and foreground the centrality and creativity of enslaved and free African, Afro-creole, and Indigenous peoples in the Caribbean world.
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HISTORY HUB
History Hub is a research support community for everyone, including genealogists, historians, and citizen archivists.
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MYHERITAGE | Cayman Islands ($)
The Cayman Islands family history research page lists data collections relevant to Cayman Islands.
Start your search here to find ancestors originating from Cayman Islands and to research historical records pertaining to Cayman Islands.
CEMETERIES + MEMORIALS.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through cemetery records, grave records, tombstone inscriptions, and funeral booklets.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
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FIND A GRAVE | CAYMAN ISLANDS
Find the graves of ancestors, create virtual memorials or add photos, virtual flowers and a note to a loved one's memorial. Search or browse cemeteries and grave records for every-day and famous people from around the world.
HISTORIC IMAGES + FILM.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through early photographs, studio portraits, historic landscape images and film.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
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HUNTLEY FILM ARCHIVES | Cayman Islands
We are a team of dedicated film archivists who aim to help you produce the best archive content for your project.
Our collections are vast and varied - the sum of over fifty years of service to production and to film archiving. Our footage starts around 1895 and we cover the places and people of the 20th century comprehensively and globally. Our holdings are mostly documentary with the addition of behind the scenes Hollywood, Bollywood and a special collection of pioneer film makers. It is with great pride that our source material is still on celluloid for quality and that filmic texture. Our films are housed in purpose built film vaults and our staff expert in their field.
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THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES UK PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION | Cayman Islands
These images from the Colonial Office library photographic collection (CO 1069) and the Central Office of Information British Empire collection of photographs (INF 10) have been added to Flickr so that you can comment, tag and share them easily. The images are also being used to develop exciting national community outreach projects.
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VIVID-PIX
Easy-to-use software that helps you fix your pics and documents fast! Free to try - no credit card required.
HISTORIC MAPS.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through historic maps.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
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David Rumsey Map Collection | Cayman Islands
The David Rumsey Map Collection was started over 35 years ago and contains more than 200,000 maps. The collection focuses on rare 16th through 21st century maps of North and South America, as well as maps of the World, Asia, Africa, Europe, and Oceania. The collection includes atlases, globes, wall maps, school geographies, pocket maps, books of exploration, maritime charts, and a variety of cartographic materials including pocket, wall, children's, and manuscript maps. Items range in date from around 1550 to the present.
cULTURAL INSTITUTIONs.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through libraries, museums, historical societies, and community cultural centers dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Caribbean culture.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
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Cayman National Cultural Foundation
For more than 30 years, the non-profit Cayman National Cultural Foundation has carried out its mission of stimulating, facilitating and preserving Caymanian cultural and artistic expression. CNCF has achieved this through the extensive development of wide-ranging programmes. These programmes include stage productions, creative education for young people, free workshops and financial support of artists, as well as festivals, publications, national recognition of artistic and cultural achievement and the preservation of Caymanian heritage, and arts and culture for future generations.
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District Heritage Committees, Grand Cayman
The District Heritage Committees of Grand Cayman are voluntary community groups, dedicated to preserving the unique cultural and heritage aspects of each of the five districts = West Bay, George Town, Bodden Town, East End and North Side.
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INDO-CARIBBEAN CULTURAL CENTRE
Indo-Caribbean Cultural Centre (ICC) is a non-profit, independent, educational organization recognized by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. ICC was established in 1999 with its axiom being “Celebrating unity in cultural diversity in the Caribbean.” It is dedicated to publishing two magazines every year – a Divali souvenir magazine, and an Indian Arrival Day commemorative magazine. ICC is primarily committed to the production of information about people, issues and events affecting Hindus and Indians in multi-ethnic Trinidad and the Caribbean.
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Ministry of Youth, Sports & Heritage
The Ministry of Youth, Sports & Heritage (MYSH) is the curator of the Cayman Islands customs and legacy while progressing and elevating sport and youth activities, programmes and policies. Our aim is to ensure the history and traditions of the Cayman Islands is remembered and shared throughout generations; while encouraging and supporting the development and implementation of sports for all; and the advancement of youth directed agendas and policies to guarantee positive outcomes for our future.
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National Gallery of the Cayman Islands
Established in 1996, NGCI is a vibrant arts organisation that seeks to fulfil its mission through exhibitions, artist residencies, education/outreach programmes and research projects.
NGCI operates in both a local and global arena. As part of our mission to promote and encourage the appreciation and practice of the visual arts, of and in the Cayman Islands, we send Caymanian art and artists abroad as well as having many fine international artists visit, exhibit and work in the Cayman Islands.
BOOKs.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through our collection of books for beginners, research guides, records guides, case studies, memoirs, family histories, oral histories, and photography collections.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
PODCASTS.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through on-topic podcast episodes and series.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
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DIS A FI MI HISTORY PODCAST
This is a podcast about Caribbean History and a good resource for individuals researching their family history.
SOCIAL MEDIA.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through social media discussion forums, networks, groups, and pages.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
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CARIBBEAN GENEALOGY | FACEBOOK
This group is for sharing resources and assisting with research relating to Caribbean ancestry and history.
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CARIBBEAN GENEALOGY RESEARCH COMMUNITY | FACEBOOK
Welcome to the Caribbean Research Community! This group was created to give people researching the region a place to ask questions, collaborate, and share research with one another.
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THE CUTLASS MAGAZINE
A progressive podcast and platform dedicated to the Indo-Caribbean community and other descendants of Indian indentureship from around the world.
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GENEALOGICAL TRANSLATIONS | FACEBOOK
Genealogical Translations was established to provide amateur family researchers a place to have their genealogical documents translated. We are a global volunteer group whose members help other members by offering free translation of their genealogical documents such as vital records, postcards, obituaries, and more, in languages including – Dutch, French, German, Hebrew, Hungarian, Italian, Latin, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and many others!
GENEALOGY VIDEOS + TUTORIALS.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through tutorials, lectures, roundtable discussions, and genealogy webinars.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
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Cayman Heritage Guide
A cultural and historical visual archive for Caymanians by Caymanians.
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INTRODUCTION TO AFRO-CARIBBEAN GENEALOGY RESOURCES WITH SHARON WILKINS
Learn how to trace your Afro-Caribbean ancestors from the West Indies, including Barbados, Jamaica, and other places. Presented by Sharon Wilkins, President of the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society - New York.
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TRACING WEST INDIAN ANCESTORS: STRATEGIES & RESOURCES | LEGACY FAMILY TREE WEBINARS ($)
This session introduces a 5-Step Research Methodology to guide family history study and research in the West Indies. Resources available in the U.S. and the U.K. are identified and civil registration and church records are illustrated through exploration of a family line. Emphasis is on the British West Indian experience.
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Caribbean Genealogy: Challenges to Tracking Your West Indian Ancestors | Prince William Public Libraries
Please join RELIC as we welcome Phillip Nicholas for a presentation demonstrating the resources and techniques used to conduct family research of the West Indies, primarily the British West Indies.
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Researching Female Ancestors of the Caribbean | FamilySearch
In this video, Researching Female Ancestors of the Caribbean, Sharon Tomlin delves into ways we can research African-Caribbean female ancestry. Encouraging dialogue across the generations to understand the pioneers of the past and to discover the pioneers within their own family.
This presentation was part of RootsTech Connect 2021. -
The West Indian Soldier | West India Committee
Learn about the British Army's service in the Caribbean, how their presence influenced life in the region and how West Indians have contributed to the British Army over the past 300 years. Made with the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
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BlackProGen LIVE! Ep 84: Getting Started with Caribbean Genealogy
Learn tips, tricks, and more for researching ancestry in the Caribbean! Special guest, Anaisa Bayala.
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How to Trace Your Caribbean Ancestry | Know Your Caribbean
Learn how you can learn about your past for free through the National Archives in Kew, London.
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Emancipation & Apprenticeship System in British Caribbean - Dr Dexter Gabriel | DIS A FI MI HISTORY PODCAST
In this episode I speak with Dr Dexter Gabriel about Emancipation & Apprenticeship System in British Caribbean.
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Carlston Walters - Caribbean Family History Group - Part 1 | DIS A FI MI HISTORY PODCAST
In todays episode I will be speaking with Carlston Walters of Caribbean Family History. This group assist family history researchers with overcoming their obstacles in researching their roots.
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Carlston Walters - Caribbean Family History Group - Part II | DIS A FI MI HISTORY PODCAST
In todays episode I will be speaking with Carlston Walters of Caribbean Family History. This group assist family history researchers with overcoming their obstacles in researching their roots.
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Exploring the Early Caribbean Digital Archive: A Treasure Trove for Family and Historical Research | DIS A FI MI HISTORY PODCAST
We explore the origins and objectives of the ECDA, a publicly accessible archive platform that houses a vast collection of pre-20th century Caribbean materials. Learn about their mission to decolonize and democratize knowledge by surfacing hidden narratives, such as those of enslaved individuals, embedded within historical texts.
The team also shares their experiences and methodologies in curating and digitizing these invaluable resources, offering a glimpse into some fascinating exhibits like Obeah practices and Jamaican Heirs. Discover how you can navigate the archive, contribute to ongoing projects, and even use these resources for family research and educational purposes.
Join us for a compelling discussion on the importance of preserving and accessing Caribbean history, both for understanding our past and informing our present. -
5 Tips to Find Missing British Caribbean Ancestors | Island Ancestors
In this video, I walk you through 5 Tips for searching for Caribbean ancestors that were involuntarily relocated or voluntarily moved between islands. This video focuses on British Caribbean islands.
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Caribbean Ancestry: Myths and Misconceptions | Island Ancestors
Myths and Misconceptions are holding you back from tracing your Caribbean Ancestors. Challenge your assumptions and take your research forward.
In this video, I dispel four common myths about West Indian family history. -
Caribbean Ancestry Guide: Getting Started | Island Ancestors
Use the strategies and hints in this video to trace your Caribbean ancestors. Before you know it you'll be on location just like on 'Who Do You Think You Are.' West Indian family history research is challenging but NOT impossible.
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Tracing My Caribbean Ancestry - Reasons to do Genealogy! | Islands Ancestors
How I traced my Caribbean ancestors back to the 18th century! The process of working on my family tree has helped me grow tremendously. Now I want to help you trace your Caribbean ancestors as far back as you can!
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CINA Genealogy | Cayman Islands Government
We show you how to travel back in time to trace your ancestry. Go with us to the National Archive where a rich treasure is available for Caymanians who want to build their family tree. See if and how the helpful staff at the Archive can assist you in your quest.
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Cayman Islands National Archives | Cayman Islands Government
As one of the keepers of Cayman's history, the Cayman Islands National Archive is filled with books, newspapers, magazines, video recordings, diaries, photos, and a host of other documents that recreate the past.
Join us as we travel backward in time, courtesy of our visit to the Archive. Discover why keeping records is important and how you can track branches of your family tree. -
Older Persons Month 2020 Ambassador: Miss Jane Ramoon, George Town | Cayman Islands Government
Miss Jane Ramoon talks about her hard but loving childhood.
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CINA - Annie Huldah Bodden | CAYMAN ISLANDS GOVERNMENT
Who was Annie Huldah Bodden and what role did she play in Cayman's history? Come with us as we find out at the Cayman Islands National Archive.
Hear from the first elected female member of the Legislative Assembly and learn a thing or two about the kind of woman she was.
HIRE A PROFESSIONAL GENEALOGIST.
Uncover the rich lives of your Caymanian ancestors through collaboration with a professional genealogist.
The following resources may include some affiliate links in an effort to support the continued growth of Ancestors of Paradise as a leading research resource in Caribbean genealogy. Thank you for your support!
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DESCUBRE TU HISTORIA
Helping descendants from the Caribbean, Central, South and North American former Spanish colonies start the journey of healing and empowerment through the knowledge of their Family History.
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Legacy Tree Genealogists
Are you looking for details about your Caribbean ancestry? Do you need help getting started or have you hit a brick wall?
Caribbean genealogy can be challenging, and the professional genealogists at Legacy Tree Genealogists can help with your research needs.
Ancestors of Paradise visitors save on select genealogy research projects.
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