About Us

Moon & Yew Genealogy was founded by Michael Traynor, a North Jersey-based professional genealogist specializing in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Our Story

Feeling the ineffable pull of his ancestors, Michael began researching his family tree in the early 2000s.  Since then, he has honed his skills, studied under top professionals in the field, and turned his passion into a livelihood. Owing to his background in teaching English, he is a sharp-eyed, meticulous researcher who thinks outside the box to help unravel familial mysteries. Located in North Jersey, Michael researches primarily within New Jersey, New York City, and southern New York State, but he also has conducted extensive research on families from Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and also Eastern Europe, with special focus on Jewish and Irish research.
Wherever your ancestral roots lie, Michael can help you discover your past!
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Moon & Yew Genealogy aims to build bridges into the past by helping you uncover your ancestry and preserve your family history.  Relying on detailed, accurate research and outside-the-box analysis, Moon & Yew can assist you with the most challenging and exciting questions about your origins and connections, helping you take your place within your family story.

Education

  • MFA in Creative Writing, Antioch University Los Angeles
  • BA in English, Marist College
  • Certificate in Genealogical Research, Boston University, Center for Professional Education
  • Certificate from ProGen Study Groups
  • Certificate from GenProof Study Groups
  • Regular attendee of genealogy conferences and webinars to stay current in genealogical skills, methods, and resources

Professional Service

  • Mentor, GenProof Study Groups (Group 86)
  • Association of Professional Genealogists
  • Genealogical Society of New Jersey
  • New York Genealogical & Biographical Society
  • Jewish Genealogical Society of North Jersey
  • Morris Area Genealogy Society
  • Genealogical Society of Bergen County
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