The search for our family name and history taught me that goals vary in genealogical research, just as in every other field.  Our search stalled because in France, if not elsewhere, genealogists search for particular lines of descent, or ascent, beginning in the present and working backwards–from an individual, her parents, grandparents, and, in our case, back to the person born in France who first emigrated to the United States.  The researchers would not budge on this point.  I knew the name, date and city of birth, but the professional genealogist would not proceed without the documented lines and brackets.  I appreciated their cordiality, explanations, information, and willingness to help us with the search, but it was still frustrating.

What I learned was that, for religious reasons, Mormons have archived more genealogical information than any group in the world.  The staff reminded me that France has had many wars, and armies destroy towns and buildings, such as churches and government buildings where records are kept.  This might apply to the first French link in our family, Jean Francois, born in Paris in 1676; however, the reminder is less valid in tracing Pierre Colerio, who made a bequest in 1064, because his name is still tied to the land.  His bequest was recorded in the register of the Collegiale of Saint Bernard, parts of which I found online, and all of which is extant. There must be more information about the land and the man in that register.  I just don’t yet know how to get to it.