Claire Brisson-Banks

Dr. Claire V. Brisson-Banks, AG®, is the founder of Timeless Genealogies, a global research firm specializing in ancestral and forensic genealogy. The company offers a curated library of historical materials—including out-of-copyright books on DVD dating back to the 1700s—and delivers worldwide services through a team of specialized consultants.

With over three decades of experience, Brisson-Banks brings deep expertise in U.S., Canadian, British Isles, and more. She is particularly known for solving brick wall cases and for championing the involvement of youth in family history by blending traditional research with digital innovation.

Accredited in English research and formerly in Mountain States genealogy, Brisson-Banks has authored numerous works, including her 2024 autobiography, Rhode Island Roots: Growing Up in the Ocean State, chronicling her upbringing as the first daughter of Omer and Brisson-Banks (Marotte) Brisson. She also wrote The Social Media Guide for Ancestral Research: Using Web 2.0 Strategies, and her doctoral dissertation, Describing How Family History Research Influences Self and Social Awareness, continues to inspire conversations on the emotional and psychological value of genealogical work.

In addition to her books, Brisson-Banks has published countless articles and taught extensively over the past decade, contributing to journals, blogs, and community education. Her work appears in Library Journal and ProQuest and she has played a leading role in developing the FamilySearch Research Wiki pages, particularly those focused on youth, U.S., and U.K. genealogy.

A sought-after lecturer, Brisson-Banks has presented across the United States, England, and Australia on topics ranging from genealogy and library science to technical skills and artificial intelligence. She earned her Ph.D. in 2025 and previously taught at Stevens-Henager College and BYU-Idaho’s Family History program.

Brisson-Banks remains active in the genealogical, academic, and library spheres. Away from the archives, she loves reading, classic films, and time with her family