First Things First

OK, so you want to start finding out where and how people fit on your family tree.  You don't need to find a book at the library, you don't need to log on to the internet, and you don't have to pay money to one of those "Book about your Surname" books you see advertised.  Amazingly enough all you need is paper and a pencil or pen.

Your family tree search begins where it should begin, with you and your family.  Yes, you are your first resource.  Just sit down and write out the facts you know.  When and where you were born.  What are the names of your parents?  Do you have siblings?  Write them down, too.  Did your family move while your were growing up?  List the places you lived and the approximate time you lived there.  Remember, if you don't have all the answers now, that is OK.  Just mark them for researching later.

Now, list, if you know, where and when your siblings were born.  List when and where your parents were born.  Then start on your grandparents.  You probably know more than your think.  Continue listing parent's siblings and grandparent's siblings if you know them.  Do you know any of your great-grandparent?  Write them down, too.

Have you amazed yourself at how much you remember?  Look over what you have written down.  Do you see anything you don't know?  Are there any gaps?  Make a list of the things you don't know.  Things like:  What was my father's mother's maiden name?  What is the name of my mother's oldest brother?

Congratulations, you now have the beginnings of your family tree.  And you even have your first list of things to research.  Over weeks and months to come, I will be sharing what to do with what you have written and where you can go to find the answers you are looking for.

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave a comment for me or send me an email.