Our Story

About Sea Genes

Professional genealogy rooted in the Pacific Northwest

N. P. Maling
Proprietor, Sea Genes

Sea Genes was founded on a simple conviction: that every family deserves research done rigorously, honestly, and with genuine care for the evidence. That means following the records wherever they lead — even when they contradict family tradition.

  • Methodologically grounded in the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) as articulated by the Board for Certification of Genealogists
  • Citation practice guided by Elizabeth Shown Mills' Evidence Explained
  • Author of genealogical methodology articles published under the byline N. P. Maling
  • Active researcher across New England, Mid-Atlantic, Pacific Northwest, and Scandinavian records

Research as Craft

Good genealogy is built on documents — not databases, not unsourced trees, not unverified family stories. Sea Genes begins every project by identifying what records are relevant, locating them in original or digitized form, and subjecting each one to the three-layer analysis that separates evidence from information from sources.

When records conflict — and they frequently do — we don't simply pick the most convenient answer. We document the conflict, weigh the informant's knowledge and proximity, look for corroborating or resolving evidence, and arrive at the most defensible conclusion the evidence will support.

The result is research you can build on: fully cited, conflict-acknowledged, and calibrated to the Genealogical Proof Standard.

Research Specializations

Pacific Northwest New England Pennsylvania Maine Records Census Analysis Vital Records Probate & Land Military Records Church Records Scandinavian GPS Methodology Narrative Biography
Transparency

Every finding comes with its source. You'll always see what the records say — including the gaps and conflicts.

Intellectual Honesty

We distinguish what the evidence proves from what it merely suggests. Speculation is labeled as such.

Pacific Northwest Roots

Based in the region we serve, with hands-on familiarity with Washington, Oregon, and Idaho repositories.

Crafted Narratives

Research doesn't end with a spreadsheet. Findings are delivered as readable, well-structured narrative reports.

Begin Your Research

Have a question about your family history? A brick wall you can't get past? Get in touch — we'd love to hear about your research challenge.

Contact Sea Genes