There is nothing more helpful that a handy reference book with information specific to the area you are researching. I've listed below those that I know about.
(find in a library) will give you a link to help you find the book in the library closest to you. Most will show libraries near Ann Arbor... to change the location, type in your zip code and you can find libraries near you.
All of the three books listed below have a small section covering each state that includes maps, historical information, vital records coverage and a bibliography of resources for that state.
- Handybook for Genealogists ( 11th edition) (find in a library) (note: some libraries may have earleir editions; those are perfectly usable)
- Ancestry's Redbook (you'll want the 3rd edition) (find in a library)
- The Family Tree Resource Book for Genealogical Research (find in a library)
Here are some books specific to Massachusetts resarch:
Historical Data Relating to the Counties, Cities and Towns of Massachusetts. 5th ed.
Lainhart. Researcher's Guide to Boston. Lambert. Guide to Massachusetts Cemeteries.
New England Family Histories and Genealogies :State of Massachusetts
Schweitzer. Massachusetts Genealogical Research
Audiotapes of lectures taped at genealogy conferences with the word "Massachusetts" in the title.
Schweitzer. Massachusetts
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