Melissa Knapp

Description

Melissa Knapp, MSc, QG, is a professional genealogist specializing in Southern U.S., Irish, and Scottish research, with particular expertise in the Scottish Highland genealogical research, and migration and the Scottish and Irish diasporas during the Early American Republic. Her research interests include the experiences of exiles, political rebels, and others whose lives were shaped by war, political upheaval, and displacement, particularly in the aftermath of the 1798 Irish Rebellion and during the era of the Highland Clearances.

Melissa works for FamilySearch as the FamilySearch Center Support Manager for the United States and Canada. In this role, she supports FamilySearch centers and those who serve in them through training, communications, educational resources, and operational support and the development of FamilySearch Center Connect.

Melissa holds an MSc in Genealogical, Palaeographic and Heraldic Studies from the University of Strathclyde, which she earned with Distinction. Her master’s dissertation, Who Were the Irish Immigrants in Charleston, South Carolina, 1795–1830?, reconstructed the lives and communities of Irish immigrants who became U.S. citizens in Charleston during the Early Republic. Her research explored their motivations for pursuing citizenship, the importance of kinship and social networks within the host society, and the notable degree of religious pluralism within Charleston’s Irish immigrant community. The dissertation was awarded the Register of Qualified Genealogists’ Best Masters Dissertation Prize for University of Strathclyde, 2025.

Melissa welcomes opportunities for speaking engagements, presentations, educational projects, and professional collaboration, particularly in areas related to migration, early American immigration, and Irish and Scottish genealogy.

Inquiries may be directed to Melissa at kindredgrove@gmail.com.