Starting Your Genealogy Journey in the New Year

Step 1: Begin with What You Know

Start by documenting the information you already have. Write down:

• Your full name and date of birth.

• The names, birthdates, and places of your parents, grandparents, and any other known relatives.

• Family stories, traditions, or significant events.

Talking with family members can also provide valuable insights. Older relatives, in particular, may have memories, documents, or photographs that can fill in the blanks.

Step 2: Organize Your Research

As you gather information, organization is key. Create a system that works for you:

• Paper Method: Use notebooks, folders, or printed charts to keep track of information.

• Digital Tools: Utilize apps like Google Sheets or Excel for tracking data.

• Consider genealogy software like Family Tree Maker or RootsMagic to keep everything organized and easily accessible.

Step 3: Use Free Online Resources

The internet is a goldmine for genealogical research. Start with these beginner-friendly resources:

• FamilySearch.org: A free platform offering access to billions of records worldwide.

• FindAGrave.com: Useful for locating burial sites and family connections.

• USGenWeb Project: A volunteer-run site providing free historical and genealogical resources for U.S. regions.

Step 4: Visit Local Resources

Don’t underestimate the value of offline research:

• Libraries and Archives: Many local libraries have genealogy sections with records, newspapers, and census data.

• Courthouses: Birth, marriage, and death records are often stored here.

• Historical Societies: These organizations may have unique collections and knowledgeable volunteers.

Step 5: Consider DNA Testing

DNA testing can complement your research by revealing ethnic origins, connecting you with distant relatives, and confirming family relationships. Popular services include:

• AncestryDNA: Combines DNA results with family tree building.

• 23andMe: Offers health insights alongside ancestry information.

• MyHeritage DNA: Focuses on ethnicity estimates and connecting with relatives.

Step 6: Learn As You Go

Genealogy is a skill that improves with practice. Familiarize yourself with:

• Census Records: These provide household information and changes over time.

• Military Records: Useful for understanding ancestors’ service and movements.

• Immigration and Naturalization Records: Vital for tracing ancestors who moved to new countries.

Many websites, like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org, offer tutorials, webinars, and forums to help beginners.

Step 7: Be Patient and Persistent

Genealogy is like solving a puzzle. You may encounter brick walls or gaps in your research, but persistence often pays off. Celebrate small wins, like finding a great-grandparent’s birth record or identifying a family’s hometown.