Kelsey is a native of Pennsylvania and a graduate of Elmira College. His interest in genealogy and history began at an early age: he joined the Mayflower Society in 1980, the Huguenot Society of America in 1985, and The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution in 1985. In addition, Kelsey serves on several museum and historical society boards. He has lectured on various topics and written many articles for publications, including Loyalist Plantations on the Susquehanna, Exploring the Wysocton Capture, and most recently Catharine, The Legend, The Legacy, Life Before the Sullivan and Clinton Expedition.
His expertise includes the Middle Atlantic States and Loyalist families in Pennsylvania and their relocation to Canada. He lives with his family on a sheep and horticulture farm.