Kentuckiana Genealogy was founded in 1997 as a central hub for researchers with family roots in Kentucky and Southern Indiana. Since its beginning, the site has served as a trusted gathering place for sharing resources, connecting researchers, and preserving the stories of families whose histories cross state lines.
Over the years, Kentuckiana Genealogy has evolved into a comprehensive digital archive and educational platform, offering free access to tools, local records, and guidance tailored specifically to this unique region. We remain committed to supporting genealogists at every stage of their journey—from beginners looking for their first ancestor to professionals working on complex regional cases.
Why “Kentuckiana”?
The term Kentuckiana refers to the culturally and historically intertwined counties of north-central Kentucky and southern Indiana. In this region, families often lived, worked, married, and migrated across the Ohio River, making it essential to treat both sides of the border as part of a single genealogical landscape.
Our resources reflect this reality. We focus on the shared migration routes, county histories, land records, and other key materials that can help you trace ancestors who left footprints on both sides of the state line.
Meet the Founder
Dee Pavey
Founder, Genealogist, and Educator
Dee Pavey brings over 30 years of genealogical research experience to Kentuckiana Genealogy. She is the founder of Floyd-Pavey Research and a speaker and educator in the genealogy field, with expertise in DNA, forensic genealogy, Midwestern and Southern records, and ethical research practices.
Dee holds a Master of Arts in History, along with dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in History and Sustainability, and a minor in Geosciences. Her academic training and professional research background enable her to approach genealogy with a balance of analytical rigor and human insight.
She has lectured at conferences such as We Are Cousins, led webinars for national audiences, and actively contributes to the genealogy community through newsletters, social media, and collaboration-driven initiatives like GenHeritage.
With Kentuckiana Genealogy, Dee continues the mission she started in 1997: to create a lasting resource for those exploring family history in the Kentuckiana region—and to ensure that those stories are preserved and accessible for generations to come.
Join Us
We invite you to explore our expanding archive, follow new blog posts, and make use of our research tools. If you’d like to contribute records, sponsor the site, or partner with us, please visit our Sponsors or Contact pages.
Together, we honor the past—one ancestor, one story, one discovery at a time.