Whether you are just beginning to learn or have been involved in the genealogy for a long time there’s always something new to learn. And learning is easier (and a lot more fun) when you are around others who are as excited and passionate about genealogy are you are (or will be!).
So you want to discover more about your family? Here are some great resources to help you get started.
FamilySearch.org
Family Search is an outstanding, free resource that has a lot of information that will help you begin your journey of discovery quickly.
- Visit their Learning Center Help page and select from a variety of topic that will help you get started.
- Start searching for your ancestors in their comprehensive collection of historical records.
- They also host a comprehensive Research Wiki that has information about almost any genealogy topic or location.
- View “4+ Ways to Search Family Search” by DGS Member Lynell Moss.
Ancestry.com
Ancestry.com also has a lot of free resources available.
- Their Getting Started page has lots of good information to help you begin your research.
- They offer a good selection of free genealogy charts and forms
- They also provide blank census forms
- They host Message Boards on a wide variety of topics
NARA
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is the nations’ record keeper.
The Archives Library Information Center contains a wealth of information to help you get started.
- How to do genealogical research
- Helpful genealogy sites
- Resources around the world
- Searchable databases
- Ethnic Heritage
- State Archives
- Vital Records
- Genealogy blogs
The Family History Guide
A free learning, research, and activities center for family history.
Their Get Started page has videos and information to help you begin researching your family.