Ryan James Johnson
Genealogist
Phone (317) 606-2495
Email rjjgenealogy@gmail.com
Location Indianapolis, IN
Professional genealogists:
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document findings in reports and written narratives.
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utilize historical context to understand records and vividly narrate ancestors' lives.
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analyze complex genealogical problems to reach sound conclusions.
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access and interpret archival records not found online.
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plan research to accomplish your family history goals efficiently.
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examine historical records to determine their reliability.
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identify opportunities for deeper understanding of an ancestor that may not appear obvious.
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commit to ethical standards that guide their research and communications.
ABOUT
I embarked on my own family history journey in 2012, which has now led me to research in the records of the United States, Canada, France, Italy, Lithuania, and Sweden and DNA analysis that identified an unknown grandparent.
I discovered that knowing the people who came before me enlivened history, strengthened my sense of belonging, and invested the present with greater meaning; perhaps you will discover the same when you allow a professional genealogist to take care of the minute details of historical research and family history writing.
My background in education, state government, and immigration prepared me with research, analysis, and writing skills that served me well in obtaining an Advanced Skills in Genealogy Certificate from the National Genealogical Society. I enjoy applying these skills and knowledge your family history goals, large and small.
Knowing our ancestors can build compassion for the human condition and open opportunities for personal growth, in addition to revealing people, places, and events of historical interest. Most of human history has been and will be lived out as parents and grandparents, children and grandchildren, aunts, uncles, and cousins encounter the joys and adversities of human life. Understanding how these people navigated their time and place in our shared world inspires me to research family history. ​
SKILLS & SERVICES
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Thorough and complex genealogical research on American ancestors, especially 19th and early 20th century immigrants.
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Establishing links to ancestral locations.
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Preliminary research in the records of Canada, Mexico, Germany, Lithuania, France, Italy, and Sweden.
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Understanding and applying DNA test results
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Family history narratives: biographical sketches, family unit sketches, and custom projects
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Family history publications: formatting and printing genealogical charts, pedigrees, and booklets
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House histories: researching and documenting original builds and former residents.
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Heritage travel: planning visits to ancestral locations.
PROFESSIONAL
EXPERIENCE
2022 - Present
Genealogist
Self-employed
Indianapolis, IN
2020 - 2022
International Scholar Advisor
IUPUI
Indianapolis, IN
2017-2019
Educator Licensing Specialist
Indiana Department of Education
Indianapolis, IN
2014-2016
Kitchen Manager and Crew Member
Chipotle Mexican Grill at Nora Corners
Indianapolis, IN
EDUCATION
2015-2017
Marian University
Master's Degree in Teaching
(Licensed teacher in Biology and Social Studies)
Indianapolis, IN
2010-2014
Hillsdale College
Bachelor of Arts in Biology
Hillsdale, MI
Sample of Activities and Accomplishments
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Traced four generations of a German family in central Indiana, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
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Traced three generations of Jewish immigrants from Lithuania to New Jersey.
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Traced four generations of German and Eastern European immigrants in Michigan, Indiana, and Missouri.
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Identified an adoption, name change, and previously unknown remarriage in an early 20th century Swedish American family.
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National Genealogical Society courses:
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Advanced Skills in Genealogy
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2022-2024 Conferences
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Click to download a work sample of a biographical narrative:​
