How can I find my long lost cousin?

Question:

How can I find my long lost cousin?

I have a cousin who I have never met. His mom left my uncle shortly after he was born. Last I heard, they were living in New Hampshire and my ex-aunt had married some other guy whose name I don't know. I'd really like to meet up with my cousin, but the only contact we have had is a letter with a picture when he was 6 years old. They have probably moved by now and my cousin may even have a new last name.

My question is.....My cousin is probably around 11 or 12 right now. Is there any FREE and reliable way to search for a child or should I wait until he is 18 and established his identity in the system more?

Also.. would it be worth it to save up my money and hire a private investigator?

Additional Details

4 months ago
Thanks for your comment, Wendy C. =)

My uncle won't talk about his son and my grandparent's have tried to establish contact many times (my grandma had tried especialy hard to keep in contact), but my ex-aunt has dropped all correspondence since my cousin was six years old. We have tried searching for them both before, but weren't able to find any information. We think she has changed her and my cousin's last names and moved out of New Hampshire to avoid contact.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: 4 months ago
Thanks for your comment, Wendy C. =)

My uncle won't talk about his son and my grandparent's have tried to establish contact many times (my grandma had tried especialy hard to keep in contact), but my ex-aunt has dropped all correspondence since my cousin was six years old. We have tried searching for them both before, but weren't able to find any information. We think she has changed her and my cousin's last names and moved out of New Hampshire to avoid contact.