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Getting Started

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Genealogy is the study, the investigation, or the account derived from the search of a person or ancestors that encompasses the total experience of each life and not merely a family tree.

At first the search for information may seem overwhelming and is a process best measured in stages. Information in this section provides a means to start research in an organized, logical way from general to specific.

Sections

General Research Tips

Tips to Get You Started

Prepare a search goal. Begin with one person to research
Establish a pattern for search and documentation
Make back-up copies or duplicate the records
Store the duplicate copies elsewhere
Print clearly and limit abbreviations
Prepare basic facts to have during searches
Record document sources and locations
Keep research inventory updated
Check spelling variations and cultural differences
Be consistent and systematic

Records and Sources

Personal Family Records

Start with yourself and work backwards from the present and log events such as names, dates, and places
Interview or write to other family members to gather information
Prepare an area to keep your records reasonably safe and accessible
Collect data and documents. Any of the following documents provide personal sources of information:
- Photos
- Personal letters, diaries, and scrapbooks
- Yearbooks from high school or college
- Diplomas, degrees, or awards of recognition
- Certificates of birth, marriage, and death
- Military records or military medals
- Baptism and funeral records
- Mortgages and deeds
Categorize pertinent information from the documents
- Identify names and dates on photos
- Establish addresses, cities or states available within the records

Public Records

Search the local public library for record sources. Ask the reference librarian to help, and inquire about interlibrary loan.
Search for records from the local courthouse. Some counties do not permit public searches or may request a fee prior to search or to obtain records. Areas of search include any of the following:
- Register of deeds on birth, marriage, or death
- Probate of wills
- Register of land sales, property transfers, and sales
Search federal records
- United States census data (publicly available through 1940)
- United States military draft registrations from World War I and World War II
- Social Security Index death records

Publications

Organize Information

Use the Internet

Enrichment

Enrich Your Research Experience

Join special interest ethnic or regional genealogical groups. Recognize the unique characteristics and records of the interest group, and explore cultural and educational connections to that group or area.
Observe ethics and etiquette when sharing or receiving information from other genealogists. Ethics include citing sources, maintaining confidentiality, and giving credit where due. Etiquette requires gratitude to others who help or share information.