Apolie Turtz asked:


In our times, more and more people are developing an interest in conducting a genealogical research. One factor of this may be because that the advancements of technology (the internet, in particular) have really made it easier to obtain and share information even worldwide. Unlike in the past, you wouldn’t have to go to cemeteries or to visit far-flung relatives anymore when you need some information. If you haven’t started doing this yourself, then now is the time. Learn more about the past and the lives your ancestors lived by doing a genealogical research. As you start researching, you have to know that some of the most important resources that you should access online are the  vital records.

Vital records are legal documents that have a lot of useful information for you since these records are filed in important events in life such as birth, death, marriages and even divorces. With access to these vital records, you will find a lot of names, dates, and places that might lead you to more information. 

Let’s take the birth records, for example. A birth record, as most know, is the record filled up when a birth needs to get registered. Birth records contain the name of the child, the date, time and place of birth, the name of the parents, their respective dates of birth, plus their address or addresses during the time of the child’s birth. So aside from the name of the person in that type of vital records, you can also get access to the names of the parents. With that, you can then access other vital records to know more about the family history information of the father and/ or the mother.

And because there are now a lot of websites that offer vital records access, there really isn’t any reason why you shouldn’t conduct one.

For more information visit: People Find



Terri

Muna wa Wanjiru asked:


The creation of a family tree is like taking off the layers of memory and revealing the past in a truly mesmerizing way. The search for one’s origins can be equally captivating and interesting, yet it is not effort-free or too easy either. Nevertheless, one cannot complain nowadays about the difficulty of making the family tree, not when we are to compare the way things used to be in the past. Presently, technological development and the fact that one can use a family tree template or a family tree maker as software items definitely indicate that family charting has got a whole new dimension, and this is all thanks to the extension of the data online.

A family tree template is the perfect way to begin working on the genealogy chart, most often such programs come together with full instructions about the best way to optimize usage. Very similar to an Excel spread sheet, a family tree template needs to have each rectangle filled with the personal data and the details of the family members. The Internet is the best source to download a proper family tree template with the usage details, however, such software items are also available at local bookstores and office suppliers.

A family tree template is pretty easy and comfortable to use since it does not require any creativity at all. If you only need to create a genealogy report that looks both professional and well documented, a family tree template is the right choice, and it doesn’t require the use of an advanced software for such family history purposes. In case you need a really advanced family tree template you may have to pay more for it, since more features come for a higher price, which is only normal after all. And the Internet remains the most advantageous option here too.

If you want to purchase a family tree template for personal use, then, there should be no problem about downloading one from the Internet, sometimes completely free of any charge, but when you need to use it for commercial purposes, things do get a little more complicated. A family tree template should have a license and a registration number that the supplier needs to hand in to you when the transaction is closed. Such security elements ensure the recognition of the authenticity of a document in case it needs to be presented for public investigation for instance.



Mike

Alice asked:


My background is academics and writing, and my passion is genealogy. How do I use research and writing skills to help other people discover their family history? Are there job sites for this field?

Christian

Allison Merlino asked:


Genealogy is an interesting hobby that has many psychological benefits. Technology enables even a non skilled researcher to gain more information faster and more efficiently and in turn benefit significantly!

The actual definition of genealogy refers to the tracing of unified languages and the tracing of vital data. Although I will be using the terms interchangeably, family history refers to a number of forms of research which we commonly refer to as genealogy. These forms include;

? Genealogy which is using archival records to trace a living person’s pedigree from the present back in time or the tracing of a historic person’s decadency forward,

? Genetic Genealogy which is the comparison of DNA of living individuals to discover relationships.

? One-name studies which refer to an investigation of person’s with a common surname.

? One-place studies which refer to an investigation of the population histories of a particular location.

? Heraldic and Peerage studies which refer to the investigation of the legal rights of a person to bear arms or claim noble status.

? Clan studies refer to a comparison of individuals with shared patrilineal or matrilineal connection to a tribal chieftain regardless of blood relation or surname.

? Family Social and Economic History which refers to the overview of a person’s place in society or economic achievements. Information about lives from wider historical sources using oral and written records is utilized.

Genealogical research often begins with an approximate notion of the extent of the entity and always ends at or before prehistoric times.

The motivation to conduct genealogical research varies from religious belief systems, pride of decent from certain groups, the desire to know medical and family history of an adopted individual or celebrating resilience of families who survived poverty or slavery. Families can celebrate the success of integration across racial or national boundaries. Families have even been known to emphasize their link to celebrity criminals!

There are psychological benefits to conducting genealogical research. In its most general sense people adopt this past time as a leisure activity. Any leisure activity will have generic benefits. The psychological benefits of this particular leisure activity are much more significant. A sense of accomplishment and independence is gained from the simple act of researching and compiling information. Tracing family heritage can help elderly people accept the concept of death and mortality. They gain the perspective that they are a part of a long line of relatives that leaves a legacy for future generations. Genealogical research fosters a sense of self worth and belonging by mentally digesting that your ancestors and you yourself play a part in history.

From a psychological perspective, family history research satisfies fundamental needs. I will list the benefits in order starting with the most basic fundamental need.

? Social Needs; Belonging Acceptance and Friendship

? Ego Needs, Achievement, Status

? Self Actualization

? Transcendence which is similar to identifying yourself with a character in a movie.

Technology makes the research faster and more efficient than ever before. The more detailed the information the more interested the researcher will remain and the more benefits he will receive. There are multiple websites devoted specifically to this research. There is also a multitude of information instantly available through other sites which can be compiled. Instructional computer software is available to suggest avenues, organize and present your information.

The psychological benefits of genealogy are significant and plentiful. Technology enables even a non skilled researcher to gain more information faster and more efficiently and in turn benefit greatly!



Yolanda

Melanie Walters asked:


Obituaries offer a wealth of information about your family. They have important facts about the deceased and important dates that you can use to piece together clues about the history of your family. Here’s how you can find details to research from obituaries.

We all think differently and we all have different ways of processing information, which makes genealogy and ancestry research very confusing. Different historians and different family members keep records in different ways so sometimes finding the facts you need to piece together a family history are elusive.

There are thousands of databases out there claiming to have the answers, but in reality if you are disorganized, those databases are only going to make the confusion worse. And to top it off repetition in names, facts and even certain dates can cause further confusion. To clear up the confusion, here is the basic guideline of what to look for in an obituary and how to keep it all organized.

Searching for Clues in Obituaries

An obituary is the final record of a person’s life, information is included that can lead you to some amazing discoveries about your family. When you look at an obituary it is important that you pinpoint those bits of information and make a note of them. First read the obituary through once or twice just to get an idea of the information included. Then underline the important pieces of information. Read it over again to make sure you underlined everything of importance. Here are the things you will want to look for in an obituary:



The deceased’s full name

Age

Gender

Date of birth

Date of death

Place or City of Residence

Occupation

Military Service

Church Affiliation

Life events

Awards or Accomplishments

Names of survivors

Place where funeral or memorial service is held

Place of internment



Maximizing the Genealogical Value of Obituaries

Once you’ve read and reread the obituary and you’ve underlined the important pieces of information, the next step is to organize the information in a way you can access later and have a complete understanding of what it is you found important. You can download forms for free that can help you research genealogical clues from obituaries at Obituarieshelp.org

The first thing to do is copy down the information point by point. Then make notes about each point.

Questions to ask yourself as you go through each point are:



What information does this clue provide?

What public or historical records exist that will provide further information?

Where can I find those records?



The notes you make about each point can be anything related to genealogy research:



Personal notes – maybe you were reminded about a conversation you had with a relative about this point.

Family history notes – maybe another ancestor was a member of the same organization.

Notes about what you’ll want to research about this information – perhaps you want to look up how long this person was a member of this organization.

Where records that expand on this information might exist – make notes as to where you can find the answers to your questions.



Other notes might include tidbits of information from:



Phone book

City business directory

Internet

Church directory

School databases



Taking the time to go through obituaries carefully can go a long way to helping you find clues to your family history and connecting you to your ancestors and relatives. Names, places, and dates are just the starting point. There is so much to learn from obituaries, but you have to read between the lines. Not all the information will be there ready for you to see, you’ll have to do a little digging and a little research. Making notes and keeping your notes organized will help you get the information you are looking for.



Dorothy

sunshine02 asked:


Genealogy has been a popular hobby among people who are eager to learn their family history. Building a family tree requires time, patience and research, but the knowledge gained from searching old family records is well worth the effort.

Genealogy isn’t an easy process, and often takes hours of research analyzing census records, marriage and death certificates, and even tax records. Certificates of birth, marriage, divorce and death are considered “vital records” and searching vital records is an important part of composing a genealogy. All these records can help give a well-rounded picture of your family tree. Most records are kept by the state in which the event took place, so knowing where grandma and grandpa got hitched is important if you’re looking for their marriage record.

The Internet has taken researching genealogy records to a whole new level. The amount of information available online as well as in traditional offline sources is staggering. Determine what information you want to find out. Family tree research can be addictive once you start, so it is important to set goals such as knowing where in the old country your ancestors came from or to take your history back to a particular period in history.

Keep track of all the records you’ve requested and note whether or not you received them. If you can’t find a record, note the reason. This will prevent you from repeating your request for an unavailable record.

Family records are only as reliable as the person who filled them out. Death certificates are notorious for being wrong about certain things because the information is often gleaned from surviving family members who may be unsure of the facts.

If there are discrepancies in dates on family records, you may have to search for public or church documents to find the accurate date.

If you can, visit with older family members personally–you may be in for a fabulous ride down memory lane. Take a notebook and pen with you to write down all those nuggets of family history.



Ruth

cinderellagirl asked:


I would like to do a family genealogy, unfortunately my present financial situation does not allow me to afford websites that charge monthly fees to locate your family history. Are there any reliable Free websites out there?

Linda

sunshine02 asked:


Genealogy studies family ancestries and histories. These are activities that are enjoyable and often amusing; most of the fun in genealogy is in the research and finding as well as the folks you meet along the way

The different thing about genealogy is that it requires a person who is inquisitive, intelligent, enjoys learning, knows how to solve a puzzle, and does not give up when there is a brick wall.

Discovering your ancestry gives you a personal connection with history and helps to establish a firm identity and pride in your background. Knowledge of who you are and where your family comes from helps you connect with multiple generations and age groups. Studying and writing about family history is a creative outlet for anyone who enjoys research and writing. What’s more, the end result is a priceless gift left for future generations. A personalized knowledge of the past helps most people come to terms with their own life changes. Knowing about your own family history perhaps makes you a little less judgmental about other people.

In doing your genealogy in life you have to enjoy it since tracing it can take many years in do it. It is one of the best hobbies you can have so please enjoy it. Everyday when you work on your genealogy you will find something new in your past.

Genealogy is a wonderful hobby for all age groups, including children. It can provide an opportunity to develop a strong sense of family and to bridge the gap between generations. When you research your family roots, it seems that the history come alive and it improves your ability to organize, plan and communicate. Children can have so much fun playing detective, which they won’t even realize that they are learning along the way. Ask your grandchildren to help you unravel the mystery of your family history, and you will be starting them on the journey of a lifetime.

The quickest way to make progress in genealogical research is to connect with someone who is further along or is more experienced than you are. A large part of the fun of genealogy is the relationships you develop with people along the way.



Joanne

R. L. Fielding asked:


Researching your family tree is very rewarding. You find things you never knew before and identify yourself with your heritage. It can also be frustrating when you can’t find what you are looking for. Finding that one source that helps you go one generation deeper, or find a new family fact is satisfying to us genealogy hunters. Building a solid family history with proper sources requires many hours of research and tons of patience. As you make progress, it’s important to carefully track all of your findings. This is essential to preserving your family history and ensures that all the hours of hard work you put into growing your family tree won’t go unnoticed.

To help you build a precise family history and a reliable family tree, here are tips for organizing your genealogy research:

Manage Your Sources

Once you start your family search and start to find sources, be sure to document where you found the source. This is known as the repository. Make sure you write down everything and copy all pertinent family information. Make it easy for yourself and others to go back and investigate the information again. And yes, on more than one occasion, you will end up needing to go back and look up the document or directing a relative to the same source.

Sources abound out on the Internet, the library, genealogical societies, and government records. It’s really easy to copy information from someone’s family tree, but beware of doing this. Most trees contain little or no sources and you should find the documents that substantiate family history, before copying and sharing your information with others. If you do copy the information, make sure you give credit to the person and repository where you found the information. Your family search should always contain sources to back-up the family information you record.

Keep Track of the Little Things

Recording both your research methods and your findings will help keep your family search efforts up-to-date and, if another family member takes over as family record keeper in the years to come, this documentation will make his or her task easier.

Don’t just document your successes but your failures, too. Pointing out dead ends will help prevent future family genealogists from making the same mistake and could even remind you of leads you followed that went nowhere.

Many family genealogists find that carefully documenting their findings (both the successful leads and the dead ends) often helps in paving the way for a new research idea. You never know when or where you’re going to come across a key piece of information that will unlock more of your family history.

Ensure an Accurate Family Tree

You will inevitably find sources that contradict family information that you thought to be true. This may be due to inaccurate memories passed down within your family, or it could be a mistake by the person who created the written record. You may even find one historical document that contradicts another historical document. For example, a census could have been filled out by someone who didn’t bother to ask the spelling of the family member’s name or the information could have been given by a neighbor or the eldest child in the house.

To make sure your family tree is as accurate as possible, document all dates and information and make notes as to why you think certain information is correct. You can spend years trying to figure out which exact dates and places are relevant when you have multiple documents that don’t have the exact same information. Documenting all the information you find from your family search will make it easier to compare notes later.

Stay Focused

When you get over-whelmed with your research, document what you have done, take a break, and come back to it later. At the end of the day, the process should be enjoyable and rewarding, so when things get frustrating take a step back and take a deep breath. This will help you stay energized and focused on the task at hand.

About MyFamilyology

This article was provided by myFamily•ology®, a security conscious, Web-based provider of genealogy tools to help you build and organize a precise family history and a reliable family tree that can be shared with family and friends. For more information, please visit www.Family-Genealogy.com/.



Tina

Danuin Mumm asked:


If you’re trying to complete your family tree, you may find genealogy maps to be helpful.  Maps are great tools to use for genealogy research.  They can provide details and clues about where your ancestors lived. 

Historic maps can show how every bit of land has changed over centuries.  If you have gathered enough facts about your family history from researching census records, birth certificates, death certificates, etc., it’s time to turn to the maps!  Old, historic maps can come in handy, since they show how the world has changed over the years.  All types of land, ranging from entire countries to small towns, have changed over the centuries.  Historic maps show these changes.

If you know the name(s) of the town(s) your ancestors lived, you can look the places up on historic maps.  Even if those towns have new names name, you can pinpoint their exact location on the maps.  You can find copies of these maps at your local library, or you could even look them up on the Internet!

Using the Internet to help with genealogic work is great.  Some genealogy sites will allow you to download software so you can view historic maps, and others will actually sell you real copies of the maps!  If you want to do genealogy research the old fashioned way, you should consider ordering vintage maps!

Wouldn’t it be nice to see how the world has changed through the centuries?  You can compare the world you now see with your own eyes to how all of your ancestors saw it.  Towns and cities that you’re now familiar with may have changed a great deal through the ages.  Historic maps allow you to see these changes in full detail.  What was the name of your town 200 years ago?  What about 500 years ago?  Was your town even really a town then?  Historic maps will show you the answer!



Hazel