Are you curious about your family history and want to know more about it? If so, there is a way for you to complete your family tree.
No matter your reasons for why you like to get more information about the history of your family, you may consider genealogy research. It is the process of tracing the ancestral history of a person with the use of historical records, vital records such as adoption records, death certificates and birthday certificates, as well as census records.
The golden role of family tree research is to start working with the things you know to tracing all the way down to the history of your family. If you don’t want to include the wrong people in your family tree, follow these genealogy research tips:
Go Treasure Hunting in Your Home
Genealogists are basically seasoned detectives. They will look for some clues, conduct research, notice patterns, and gather data to uncover family histories and solve mysteries methodically. Like detectives, they also know that the most valuable clues are often found at home. So, before you start anywhere or online, try treasure hunting in your home first.
You can do this by checking your basement, attic, and some of the drawers where personal correspondence, photos, and documents may be stored. Things with dates will give you an advantage. Some of the family memorabilia that you should find are old pictures, letters, postcards, diaries, diplomas, military records, and so on.
If you need to search through the artifacts in the homes of your relatives, you can involve them in your hunt. Just make sure to explain to them why you want to know more about your family tree and how they can help you find the things you need.
Consider Global Searching Online
Searching globally may be a good time saver, but its results may be a bit overwhelming. Get a clue of what you would want to know and search in the collections that might provide you the answers you are searching for. Although local search will give you fewer results, you will get more meaningful results. But once you consider global searching like taking advantage of a known genealogical website, you’ll realize that there are more search options in global search.
Never Forget to Use Social Media Sites
One of the online resources you can also use are social media websites. Never forget about social networking as it may help you a lot in creating your family tree. You can use your accounts on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. Aside from connecting with people who have the same surnames as yours, you may also check the public archives, libraries, local organizations, and other local services that are related in genealogy.
The best thing about social media websites is that they are free to use. All you need is a reliable internet connection and a working mobile device to start your search. With the number of users in social media platforms, there’s no way you won’t be able to get important information about your family tree.
Talk to Your Older Relatives or Elders
Another effective tip to find out more about your family tree is through talking to your older relatives. They can give you the information you’re looking for in just a few minutes or hours depending on the scope of your family tree.
Even if you have heard some of your family legends and facts, it takes time to interview your older relatives. So, make sure to bring a recorder and prepare particular questions that will help them refresh their memories and give you the most accurate details.
You may ask your parents or grandparents about your family history. If your great-grandparents are still alive, then that’s perfect because they are more knowledgeable about the roots of your family tree. Through speaking with your relatives, you can quickly resolve your questions in mind without missing anyone. However, if some of your relatives are far from your place, you might need to travel to get more information personally. But with today’s advancement of technology, you may just send them a message or give them a call.
Consider Getting Death Records
Death records are one of the ways to trace your family tree. These can provide you with clues about a person, which may include their residence, spouse, parents’ names, religion, cause of death, occupation, and more. Depending on where you reside, you may access death records online and offline, but you might need to pay for particular fees, which may differ by country.
The Bottom Line
You have to remember that genealogy research is more like detective work. You’re using clues to unlock a bigger story. Occasionally, you’ll follow false leads and need to retrace your steps, and you might have some intervals before another possible lead develops. Never rely on resources online alone. If possible, consult other resources and don’t just focus on a single resource.
