First Cousins, Once Removed?
"What does it mean when a cousin is 'once removed'?" This is a very common question! Family relationships can definitely be confusing, and not just for the beginner genealogist. I've put together this ladder image to help explain how "once removed" refers to the generational separation between two cousins. Let's take a look:
At the top of the image, the "family ladder", we have an ancestor couple, Grandma and Grandpa.
On the next level are their children, who are siblings to each other.
The next step down (or generation) contains the children of the siblings on the step above. These people are 1st cousins to each other.
The next generation, pictured on the next step of the ladder, are the children of all the 1st cousins on the step above. These people are 2nd cousins to each other.
When you consider your relationship to your 1st cousin's child, this child is one generation "removed" from you and your cousin (1st cousins). Thus, you and the child are 1st cousins, once removed (1C1R) to each other.
Try this yourself by drawing your own family ladder. Place your grandparents at the top, their children on the next step, and so on. Next, draw it with your great-grandparents, instead. You will be an expert at figuring out cousins in no time!
Do you have other questions about genealogy? Attend the AAPLD Genealogy Interest Group on April 12. Register now!