Whenever possible, research is based upon primary source materials, including census records, vital records, military records, probate files, land records, newspapers, archival collections, and other historical documents. Secondary sources may be used to provide historical context and are clearly identified when appropriate.

No. Historical research depends on the records that have survived and are available. Some records have been lost, destroyed, or were never created. While Hidden Hickory Research cannot guarantee specific discoveries, every project is conducted using established historical research methods and every reasonable effort is made to locate relevant sources.

If records are unavailable or have been destroyed, alternative sources are often available. Hidden Hickory Research will explore substitute records whenever possible and clearly explain any limitations within the final report. Honest conclusions are always preferred over unsupported assumptions.

Yes. Hidden Hickory Research is available for select on-site research projects when travel is necessary to access records that are not available through digital archives or local repositories.

Because every project is unique, travel is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. When travel is required, anticipated expenses—including transportation, lodging, admission fees, archival reproduction costs, and additional research time—will be discussed in advance and incorporated into your written project proposal. No travel-related expenses are incurred without your approval.

Every project begins with a complimentary 15-minute discovery consultation. Following that conversation, you will receive a written proposal outlining the recommended scope of research, estimated timeline, project fee, and any anticipated research expenses. Research begins only after the proposal has been approved and the required deposit has been received.

Yes. Upon completion and final payment, the finished report is yours to keep. Unless you provide written permission, Hidden Hickory Research will never publish, share, or use your research or personal information for promotional purposes. If a project is selected as a portfolio example or case study, identifying information will only be included with the client's written consent.

Yes. Client information, documents, and research findings are treated with professionalism and confidentiality. Hidden Hickory Research respects the privacy of every client and will not disclose personal information or research materials without permission, except as required by law.

Historical research often uncovers unexpected information that may expand the scope of a project. If additional research beyond the original proposal is recommended, Hidden Hickory Research will discuss the findings with you before any additional work is performed. No additional charges will be incurred without your approval.

Yes, if requested. Hidden Hickory Research can assist with building or expanding family trees on platforms such as FamilySearch and Ancestry as part of a research project.

These platforms are valuable research tools that provide access to millions of historical records and can assist in locating relevant information. However, online family trees and indexed records should not be accepted as conclusive evidence without further evaluation.

Our research follows accepted historical research methods by examining original records whenever possible, evaluating available evidence, and documenting sources that support each conclusion. Research findings may be incorporated into your preferred genealogy platform or provided as a professionally prepared historical report, depending on your goals.