Maiden Name Unknown is a new take on genealogy.
We examine family histories through a queer and feminist lens to uncover the stories previously untold.
Our Mission
Maiden Name Unknown, named after the too often found placeholder for when a female ancestor’s last name can’t be found), seeks to push past the too often patriarchal, racially biased approaches to examining genealogy. We move past the names, dates, and locations of our ancestors to delve into “emotional” genealogy — genealogy that looks at lessons, strength and traumas passed down to us from our ancestors. We want to recover stories and people lost to history in order to reevaluate and honor our stories.
Our History
Co-Founders Chelsea & Tom met in 2011 through the communications department at UMaine. Both have spent their entire lives interested and researching genealogy and family stories.They look forward to sharing their experience with you.
Maiden Name Unknown 