Discovering your family’s history is an enriching journey that connects you to your roots. Here are some steps to help you begin your genealogical research:

1. Start with What You Know
   Write down everything you already know about your family: names, birthdates, places of residence, and any stories passed down.

2. Talk to Family Members
   Interview older relatives to gather firsthand accounts, photos, documents, and any other valuable family history.

3. Organize Your Information
   Create a family tree using online tools like Ancestry or FamilySearch to keep track of your discoveries.

4. Explore Free Online Resources
   Utilize free resources like the National Archives, Chronicling America, and local library databases to uncover public records, historical newspapers, and more.

5. Dive into Specialized Records
   Depending on your family’s background, you may need to explore immigration records, military service documents, or even DNA testing services.

6. Keep a Research Log
   Document where you’ve looked and what you’ve found (or didn’t find). This will help you avoid retracing steps and identify gaps in your research.

Here’s a list of resources to guide your search:

• Birth, Marriage, and Death Records
  Start with local government or church archives for vital records.

• Census Records
  National census data can provide key family details.

• Military Records
  Explore the service history of family members through databases like Fold3.

• Immigration Records
  Websites like Ellis Island can help trace immigrant ancestors.

• Local Libraries and Historical Societies
  Visit local archives for unique historical documents and family records.

Genealogical research can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone! I offer personalized assistance to help you uncover your family’s story, whether you’re just starting or hitting a roadblock.

 

Contact me to discuss your research goals and see how I can help guide you on your journey.