

Where was my grandmother born? Am I really related to President Lincoln? Did my ancestor serve in World War I? Your online search site will help you look through records for census and voter lists marriage and death immigration and travel military, historical records newspapers and public member trees. Now that you’re ready, ask yourself what family story interests you the most. Also, it’s not necessary to spend money on vital records or old family history books because there’s a good chance they may already be online. But don’t book any expensive trips yet, as there is a vast amount of information available online you’ll want to tap into. Most sites encourage you to create your own family tree online, which you can make either private or public.Īs you learn more, you may find yourself visiting graveyards, family history libraries, local libraries, courthouses, government offices, and the towns, states and countries where your ancestors lived. There are also some fee-based sites available by subscription that you might want to consider like and. Some sites like from the Church of Latter Day Saints don’t cost anything to use. Choose the right online genealogy records site for you by checking them out during their free trial periods. Once you’ve started, you’ll know first-hand what a wonderful feeling it is to add information to your family’s story.Īfter you’ve spoken to your family, it’s time to start filling in the blanks and searching for more details online. In my own family, my father, two aunts and a cousin were experts in researching specific branches of the family, so I was able to pull together their research before starting to contribute my own. Make sure you credit your relative where it’s due. Many won’t be around later to answer your questions, so begin now! See what resources your family already has in letters, diaries, family bibles, family legends, old newspaper clippings, video and/or audio recordings, photographs and other heirlooms that might be a good source of clues.Ĭhances are an amateur archivist in your family already did some great detective work and is delighted to share with you – if you just ask! You won’t have to reinvent the wheel for research already done, though it’s still important to look at their sources and double check facts. Now that you’ve identified what you know, start talking to your family.
