Where To Begin Your Genealogy Search
There can be many reasons to trace your family tree and begin your genealogy search. Some scholarships offered by historical organizations require applicants to prove they are the direct descendants of a particular group, such as the Daughters of the American Revolution. Families can sometimes identify hereditary diseases by studying the causes of death for ancestors. For many, a geneology search is just a fascinating hobby that can be enjoyed alone or shared with the entire family.
The Internet has made it much easier to perform basic research on your family tree. There are many sites you can use, and while some charge a fee, there are also free sites available. Through these, you can access some of the most common databases. Good starting points are the United States census records, the Social Security death index, and the Immigrant Ship Transcriptions.
Many amateur genealogists post their family trees online. It is not uncommon to find pertinent links to your own ancestry on someone else’s tree. You will want to confirm that the information entered is actually for your ancestor, but they often provide a valuable tool to expand your knowledge.
You should also speak with relatives to see what documents they might have to help you in your search. You may discover that an aunt has an old family Bible with data on several generations or that your grandmother has the baptismal records for her parents. Even if they cannot provide you with written documents, ask them to tell you what they can remember. Ask for names, as well as the dates and places of births and deaths, but also ask for other information. Knowing, for example, that an ancestor enlisted in Tennessee during the Civil War can help you find his unit. The information that your great-grandparents were married in Vermont narrows your search for their data.
Some newspapers maintain files of all back editions, usually on microfilm. You may be allowed to perform research on their site, searching for obituary notices, birth announcements, and wedding notices. Since only census records less than seventy years old are not made public, this can be a good source for more recent information.
Your local library may have a genealogical collection you can use. It is possible that they may have some information on microfilm that has been indexed, which would expedite your search. More than likely, however, they will have family histories, journals, and letters that may require you to spend some time perusing to find an entry relevant to your family.
Local historical societies can sometimes be an excellent source of general information about the area and prominent citizens. Their records are usually somewhat limited, but speaking with them can sometimes provide the link you need to continue your pursuit. They may also be able to offer suggestions on sources that might apply to you.
Records prior to the Revolutionary War are harder to find. If you know where an ancestor is buried, a visit to the cemetery may add to your knowledge base. Sometimes, there is information on the gravestone, such as the names of spouses or children, that can be helpful. Church records of baptisms, marriages, and burials can also yield information. Many such records have been transcribed and indexed, although they may not be available online.
