Six Steps to Starting a Family Tree

Starting a family tree can be a very rewarding pastime. Indeed, knowing where you came from helps you to understand who you are. Though research into your family history might sound overwhelming, proceeding in a thoughtful and organized manner will make the venture both enjoyable and thrilling. The following six steps, though not inclusive, will nonetheless get you started in the right direction.

The first step involves starting a ‘Pedigree’ or ‘Ancestor’ chart. These charts can be obtained either online or you can create an outline yourself. The important rule is to start with yourself and proceed backward one generation at a time. A pedigree chart verifies such facts as year and place of birth, marriage, and death. After completing the chart as accurately as you can, look at home for articles that may lend additional information. Items to consider are family bibles, diaries, birth, marriage, and death document, memorial cards, and newspaper clippings of such events. These items will also provide additional clues for your research.

The third step involves interviewing family members to unearth more clues to help facilitate your research. Be methodical with regard to the questions you ask by listing them beforehand, and asking those questions that will most enhance your research. Keep your queries down-to-earth, so to speak, so as to illicit clear memories from which to glean data.

Now it’s time to visit your local library or surf the web. There are enumerable websites that offer invaluable resources. Via the internet or library, concentrate on finding records from churches, cemeteries, and military sources. Search newspaper obituaries and census bureaus. Take advantage of the resource librarian to assist you in your search.

Consider visiting a ‘Family History Library’ online if you run into a snag. The use of a ‘Family History Library’ is free to the public and an invaluable resource to those researching their family heritage.

The final and most vital step is to take notes, photocopies, and keep records of this information in a reliable filing system. Keep in mind that without such a filing system, your documents will be left in a helter-skelter manner making it impossible for you to put facts in the proper order. Use binders, folders, notebooks or anything that appeals to your sense of order to organize material.