Important Updates to the Ackman & Ziff Family Genealogy Institute's Hours and Appointment Requests HERE

The Ackman & Ziff Family Genealogy Institute offers free access to an extensive array of resources, including the rich collections of the Center’s Partners, online databases, and specialized research guides. Our dedicated staff provides expert guidance to researchers of all levels, from novices to professionals, ensuring they have the support needed to navigate their research in-person or virtually.

The Ackman & Ziff Family Genealogy Institute welcomes walk-ins on Mondays. Tuesday through Friday genealogists will serve Holocaust survivors and the direct descendants (children and grandchildren) of Holocaust survivors and victims by appointment only. To request an appointment, email gia@cjh.org. Our team of genealogy specialists are happy to show visitors how to start searching for ancestors, answer their research questions, and recommend relevant sources in the collections of the Center’s Partners.

The Center for Jewish History is proud to partner with Ancestry to honor the memory of the victims of the Holocaust and work to reconnect families affected by it. In an effort to help piece together family trees that were destroyed in the years 1939-1945, the Center offers free Ancestry DNA kits to Holocaust survivors and their children.  Through the power of genetic genealogy, participants have gained new insight into their family history that could not be gained from traditional genealogy alone, and some have even found and connected with living family members they did not know existed.

Guests are invited to explore the Ancestry Research & Reflection Room,a dedicated space for uncovering, preserving, and honoring the stories of Jewish families around the world. This unique resource offers unparalleled access to records from the Center and its Partners, along with exclusive onsite access to Ancestry’s extensive Holocaust collections, including more than 7.5 million records made available through its collaboration with the Arolsen Archives. Whether you're just beginning your journey or deep into your research, our expert genealogy staff are here to support and guide visitors at every step.