Getting Started In Genealogy
Interested in getting started in Genealogy? It may seem overwhelming at first but its actually quite simple. Start by writing down everything you already know about your family-birth dates, wedding dates, names of spouses and children, places of birth, etc. Then gather all your family photos. If you found any that include people you can’t identify, put them aside. Once you’ve done that, reach out to your older family members. Grandparents, Great Grandparents, Grand Aunts and Uncles, etc, can all be valuable sources of information. Arrange to spend some time with them and just listen to their stories, taking notes here and there. (Most older folks love telling stories, but if you ever run into an resistance, don’t push and respect their right to privacy.) Take the photos you’ve been unable to identify and ask them about them. If you get the info you’re seeking, write it down on the back of the photo(use a light touch to avoid causing any damage to the picture).
If you don’t have many older family members, or they are unwilling to speak or unable to provide much info, fire up your computer and start searching. The internet is a rich source of genealogical info. Many newspapers have their obituary sections online and make them easily searchable. Obits are often a valuable source of information. They give you a mini biography of the person and that can unlock a lot of doors. Many websites exist with obits from years and years ago. Check out Rootsweb.com for a complete list.
Tomorrow we’ll continue this discussion of how to get started researching your family history!
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Check out these 451 Press Blogs for more info:
Earthly Garden
Home Computer Talk
genealogy, family history, getting started doing your family history, how to research your family
Leave a Reply