How to Research Your Family History
A comprehensive guide to uncovering your ancestry. Learn the strategies, resources, and techniques used by professional genealogists.
Researching your family history is one of the most rewarding journeys you can undertake. It connects you to your past, helps you understand your heritage, and creates a legacy for future generations.
This guide will walk you through the process step by step, whether you're a complete beginner or looking to take your research to the next level.
Step-by-Step Guide
Start with what you know
Begin by documenting everything you already know about your family. Write down names, dates, places, and relationships for yourself, parents, grandparents, and any other relatives you know about.
Interview family members
Talk to older relatives while you can. They hold valuable information about family history, stories, and may have documents or photographs. Prepare questions in advance and record the conversations if possible.
Gather home sources
Search through family documents, photographs, letters, and heirlooms. Look for birth certificates, marriage licenses, military records, immigration papers, and old photographs with notes.
Explore online databases
Use genealogy websites like FamilySearch, Ancestry, and MyHeritage to search historical records. Many offer free access to basic records. Start with census records, vital records, and immigration records.
Visit local repositories
Check local libraries, courthouses, churches, and historical societies. Many records, especially older ones, are only available in person. Librarians and archivists can be incredibly helpful.
Verify and document
Always verify information with multiple sources. Document where you found each piece of information. This helps you track your progress and ensures accuracy.
Organize your findings
Use family tree software like Tree Family to organize and visualize your research. Keep digital copies of documents backed up in multiple locations.
Connect with others
Join genealogy societies and online forums. DNA testing can help you connect with relatives you didn't know existed and break through brick walls in your research.
Helpful Resources
Free Online Databases
- FamilySearch.org
- FindAGrave.com
- USGenWeb.org
Record Types to Search
- Census Records
- Vital Records (Birth, Marriage, Death)
- Immigration & Naturalization
Pro Tips
- Work backwards in time—always start with what you know and move to the unknown.
- Names were often spelled phonetically—search for variations.
- Don't believe everything you find—always verify with primary sources.
- Research siblings and collateral relatives—they often provide clues about your direct ancestors.
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