About Us
At Kinship Chronicles, we believe that every family has a story worth discovering and preserving. Our mission is to help individuals reconnect with their roots and define their legacy through professional, personalized genealogy services.
Unlike other platforms, Kinship Chronicles pairs you with a dedicated genealogy consultant who does all the work for you. From tracing your ancestral lines to uncovering hidden stories, documents, and connections, we handle the research so you can focus on the journey of discovery.
Whether you're curious about your lineage, seeking to preserve your family history, or hoping to pass down a rich legacy to future generations, we are here to guide you—one chapter at a time.
Your story is waiting. Let’s uncover it together.
Heather Shaffer
Founder
I am the founder of Kinship Chronicles, and for over 22 years, genealogy has been more than just my expertise — it has been my life's passion. With a Bachelor of Arts in History, concentrated in American History from Southern New Hampshire University, I’ve dedicated myself to uncovering the stories that live within family lines — the ones that shape who we are and where we come from.
With that experience, among many others, it has shown me just how powerful genealogy can be. It’s more than dates and documents — it’s about restoring connection, honoring legacy, and bringing closure to families across generations.
At Kinship Chronicles, I help others experience that same joy of discovery and healing. Whether you’re looking for lost relatives, building a family tree, or simply curious about your roots, I’m here to guide you through the process — with care, integrity, and a deep personal understanding of what this journey means.
Let’s discover your roots and define your legacy — together.
A Promise Fulfilled: Finding My Uncle Through Genealogy and DNA
For as long as I can remember, my grandmother carried the quiet sorrow of a missing piece in her heart — the son she had to give up for adoption so many years ago. Before she passed, I made her a promise to find him. This is where my journey began with genealogy research.
At the time, all I had was a name, a few scattered details, and a burning determination. The journey ahead was long and winding. For years, I poured over records, followed dead-end trails, and pieced together fragments of the past. It often felt impossible — like chasing shadows. But I refused to give up.
When DNA testing became more accessible, it opened new doors. Through genetic matches and meticulous analysis, I started to connect the dots. And then, one day — there he was. After countless years of searching, I found my uncle. It was a bittersweet moment. My grandmother had passed before I could give her the news, she waited a lifetime to hear. But I like to believe she knew — that somehow, she was with us in spirit when we finally reunited.
To celebrate, we threw a "Welcome Home" party. It was emotional, overwhelming, and beautiful. My uncle met all of his siblings for the very first time, along with cousins, nieces, nephews — a whole network of family that had been waiting to embrace him. That day, we didn’t just reconnect lost relatives — we healed generations.
Genealogy isn’t just about names and dates. It’s about people, stories, and promises. And for me, it was about bringing a family back together — just like I promised.
-- Heather Shaffer
Our services
Seedling Package
Every legacy begins with a single seed.
Offers a professionally designed family tree tracing up to three generations, making it perfect for individuals or families beginning their ancestral journey. This package includes a visual family tree chart presented in a clean, easy-to-read format, showcasing you (the client), your parents, grandparents, and children. Spouses and siblings can also be included, depending on the information provided. Alongside the chart, you'll receive a concise genealogy report (approximately 3–5 pages) summarizing key family details such as full names, birth and death dates (if known), relationship explanations (e.g., “John is your maternal grandfather”), and short bios or family stories when available. All information is compiled into a print-ready PDF. The package includes a free 30-minute consultation to gather information, with follow-up via a simple form or email to complete your family details. The final digital package is delivered within 1–2 weeks, with an option for a professionally printed copy available at an additional cost.
Deep Roots Package
Delve deeper into your family's past.
Provides a comprehensive and in-depth look into your family history, tracing your lineage back up to five generations. This package includes a detailed and beautifully designed family tree chart that maps out ancestors including parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and beyond—offering a wider and richer view of your family’s roots. In addition to the visual tree, clients will receive a thoroughly researched genealogy report that expands on family connections with greater depth, including timelines, biographical narratives, and ancestral insights. A key feature of this package is the inclusion of copies of historical documents, such as census records, birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, immigration papers, and more—whenever available—adding authenticity and depth to the research. These documents are carefully curated and cited in the report, providing verifiable evidence and a tangible link to your family’s past. The report is delivered in a well-organized, professionally formatted PDF, with an optional printed version available. A detailed initial consultation and ongoing communication ensure accuracy and personalization. This advanced package is ideal for clients looking for a more complete and meaningful exploration of their ancestry, and typically requires 3–5 weeks for delivery, depending on research complexity.
Heritage Tree Package
Bringing your family's full story to life.
Offers the most extensive and personalized exploration of your family history, designed for those who want a deep, far-reaching understanding of their lineage. This package includes a fully researched family tree tracing back as many generations as possible, depending on available records. It uncovers not only direct ancestors but often collateral lines such as aunts, uncles, and cousins, providing a wide and intricate view of your heritage. Clients receive a comprehensive genealogy report that weaves together names, dates, places, family stories, migration patterns, and social or historical context. The report also includes copies of historical documents such as census records, vital records (birth, marriage, and death certificates), immigration and military files, and other available public documents that bring your family story to life. When possible and appropriate, the package may include contact information for living relatives or connections with distant family members, offering opportunities to expand your personal family network. Any additional findings, such as newspaper clippings, photographs, family heirloom details, or oral histories (if accessible), will be included to further enrich your family narrative. Delivered in both digital and optional printed formats, the Premium Package comes with full consultation, updates throughout the research process, and dedicated support. This package typically requires 6–10 weeks for completion due to its depth and complexity.
Heirloom Keepsake
The Heirloom Keepsake is a beautifully organized, heirloom-quality compilation designed to preserve and celebrate your family's unique story. Housed in a 3-ring binder. This will include:
Family Group Sheets - meticulously completed forms for each family, capturing vital information -- births, marriages, deaths, and relationships--across generations.
Historical Documents - carefully sourced records including U.S. census records, military files, immigration papers, birth and death certificates, marriage licenses -- based on availability of records.
Whether you are preserving family history for your children or honoring the legacy of your ancestors, the Legacy Book offers a timeless way to define your family's legacy and share it for generations to come.
Sprout Services
Helping your family tree take root.
Our Sprout Services provide essential support for those just beginning their genealogical journey. Whether you need help starting your family tree or have specific questions about where to begin, this service offers flexible, hourly assistance to get you on the right path. Perfect for newcomers seeking guidance and initial research.
**The hourly rate for this service is $35 per hour. One hour minimum required. Anything beyond one hour will be invoiced. **
Branching Out Assistance
Ideal for clients who have some experience with family history and are ready to expand their research. This service includes connecting new branches, finding documents, and working on expanding the family tree with intermediate level tasks.
** Hourly rate for this service is $55 per hour. One hour is the minimum requirement. Anything beyond one hour will be invoiced. **
Testimonials
I never thought I'd find her.
All I had was a name -- and even that was wrong. My dad was never a part of my life, leaving behind many questions. One of those questions was about a sister I'd heard whispers of. Thanks to hard work and dedication, I found her. Despite her adoption, her name being changed, and decades of silence, she was found. What seemed impossible became a reality. We've reunited and a piece of me has been restored.
-- anonymous
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