Here are a few suggestions on getting assistance in locating where your ancestors lived -even if they didn't move after they got there.
1. Map Guide to the US Federal Census, 1790-1920 by William Thorndale. Thorndale's work only covers the census years, but gives you a good idea of changes in borders of states, territories, counties, etc. every 10 years. It's a good starting point.
2. US Genweb State Projects: There are county pages that list counties, when they were formed and identifies the parent county or counties. Some of the states will include an interactive set of maps for every few years showing boundary changes. County histories are also included that may help in identifying shifts in borders.
3. Histories on states or counties will detail border changes and county formations. This is a case where book published in the late 1800s and early 1900s come in handy. Check county bios for your ancestors.
4. Wikipedia: Check county articles for formation dates.
5. Family Search Wikis: Search state wikis for county formations and available records.
6. State Research Guides: NEHGS/American Ancestors and other organizations or libraries publish guides to the states and may include formation dates of the counties.
7. Check with your local library, genealogical or historical society for other resources to help you with your genealogy geography.
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