
Wondering where your ancestors came from? Trying to verify a family story that’s been passed down for generations? Stuck on an ancestor who seems to have vanished from the records?
Whatever brings you here, I’d love to help. With more than 20 years of research experience and accreditation through ICAPGen (England region), I bring professional-level skills and genuine enthusiasm to every project. All research is conducted in compliance with the Genealogist’s Code of Ethics and the Genealogical Proof Standard as developed by the Board for Certification of Genealogists, and every client receives a professionally prepared, fully sourced written report.
Areas of Specialty
My expertise lies in England, the Isle of Man, and South Africa, with additional experience across the U.S. (including the Mountain West and Great Lakes regions) and Australia. Not sure if your research falls within my areas of experience? Feel free to reach out — I’m happy to discuss your project.
Professional Research Services
I offer the following:
- Research Reports — focused research with a specific objective, resulting in a thorough, documented report about your research question.
- Brick Wall Research — focused investigation into those difficult-to-find ancestors.
- Narrative Reports — bringing your ancestor’s story to life with social history context.
- Writing & Editing Assistance — help with your family history writing projects.
Working with Sue on my Scottish line has been excellent. She is thorough, detailed, and her final report was professional and easy to read and understand. The fact that she put me in contact with living descendants was a dream come true!
— Grant F., South Africa
Just Getting Started?
New to genealogy, or not sure how to tackle your research? I can help you find your footing with:
- A personalized Research Plan to give your research clear direction.
- Coaching and support as you take those first steps into the records.
I am more than happy with the research that Ms. McNelly undertook for me. I knew very little about my ancestors in County Durham and was thrilled with the family tree and report that I received. I highly recommend Ms. McNelly!
— Andrew W.
Ready to get started?
Just recently I utilised the genealogy services of Sue McNelly to assist me in researching my South African ancestors, which I had found to be almost impossible due to my very limited knowledge of the family history in that area. Sue was amazing in finding family and documents to confirm the relatives, and was in contact with me regularly along the way. I look forward to using her services again and can highly recommend her as a go-to for your family history research.
— Di P., Melbourne, Australia
I offer a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your project and make sure we’re a good fit before any work begins. Research is charged at $85 per hour. Following our consultation, I will provide you with a research proposal outlining the scope of work and an estimated number of hours.
