What are everybody's thoughts on using the website [LibertyEllisFoundation.org] as a source?

Question

I found pertinent passenger list info there without paying for their prints, but I can't look at image of actual list without membership. Is this a reasonable immigration source to cite? At least until a better source turns up?

Answer 1

Hello Sarah,

I might suggest doing something like example.

*Year 1815 John Doe Immigration Record Ellis Island New York [ Link to source]

Just so its clear what that source represents. But getting back to the point a source is just a pointing out of where we got the information.

I however might mark it as uncertain.

Information from derivative sources, unless supported by other sources, should be considered uncertain and marked as such. However, since the community does not enforce a set standard of proof, this is a determination made by the editors of the profile — the Wiki Genealogists who are engaged in finding and evaluating sources of information.

Best Regards

Comments

Thank you. Would my census data with the same immigration year and names be good supporting evidence for this if I make notation of it, somehow, in my sources? I also have birthplace and name confirmation by family members because this immigration was as recent as 1912 and my mother was close to them, however, I don't want to just rely on "mama said so."

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I personally would be hesitant to use a census as a record to mark something as certain. There very well known to be slightly off. But I trust your judgement on this issue

Answer 2

Looks good to me.  Possible issues include the accuracy of the recording of information at the time and the accuracy of the transcription.  However, that exists with every source.

Comments

Thank you

Answer 3

The Ellis Island foundation allows you to search and view the original passenger manifest by registering for a free account.  I use it often to find immigrants and make sources in WikiTree

https://www.libertyellisfoundation.org/passenger-result

You only have to pay if you order a printed copy of the manifest.