* Currently accepting contract research work *
Amy Hesseldahl is a professional genealogist specializing in North Carolina genealogy, and historical records of the Southern United States. 

Her path into genealogy began with a search for her father’s biological parents, which unlocked half of her family tree and led to a career in family history research. She currently provides contract research services for genealogists and is a recipient of the 2026 APG New Professional Scholarship.

Amy has completed GenProof99, IGHR Advanced Methodologies course, SLIG Advanced Methodologies course, Research Like a Pro Study Groups (RLP11 and DNA8), and holds a certificate in Instructional Design from NYU. Before entering the genealogical profession, Amy enjoyed a career as a professional opera singer. She earned a Master of Music from Manhattan School of Music and performed at Carnegie Hall. 

A background in graphic design and instructional design shapes how she communicates research findings. Amy develops presentations, reports, and training materials that help genealogists communicate research clearly and effectively.

Born and raised in Virginia and now based in New York’s Hudson Valley, Amy combines thorough research, careful analysis, and clear communication to help clients and readers better understand the past.

Publications/Media
"Guano in North Carolina: Industry, Labor, and Legacy." North Carolina Genealogical Society Journal 51, no. 3/4 (Sep 2026): 132-138.

Repositories

• State Archives of North Carolina, Raleigh, NC
• University of North Carolina, Southern Historical Collection (Wilson Library), Chapel Hill, NC
• New York State Archives, Albany NY

Research Time Periods

• 21st Century
• 20th Century
• 19th Century
• 18th Century

Languages

• English
• Elementary German

Certificates

• GenProof 99
• IGHR Advanced Methodologies 2026
• SLIG Advanced Methodologies 2026
• Research Like a Pro - RLP11
• Research Like a Pro - RLP DNA-8

Affiliations

• North Carolina Genealogical Society
• Virginia Genealogical Society
• New York Genealogical & Biographical Society
• National Genealogical Society
• Durham-Orange Genealogical Society (NC)
• Association of Professional Genealogists

Degrees
Manhattan School of Music M.M.
​NYU Certificate in Instructional Design