Genealogy Tips

1. Start with yourself and work backwards, one generation at a time.

2. Begin your search at home, using scrapbooks, family Bibles, diaries, newspaper clippings, etc.

3. Contact other family members beginning with the oldest, don't delay.

4. Learn to use vital records; church records, obituaries; cemetery records and grave markers; city directories; census records; naturalization papers; ships' passengers lists; tax assessment rolls; county atlases and histories; land records, probate records and military records. Before going to a records depository, call ahead to find out exactly what records are available.

5. Don't trust your memory. Record all information exactly as it is told to you or as it appears on source documents.

6. Don't record information on scrap of paper - they are easily misplaced. Use a notebook, always record the date the research was performed and the source of the information. You may need to refer to a given document more than once.

7. Acquaint yourself with the genealogical libraries in your area. Check for branches of the Mormon Genealogical Library in your area Church of the Latter Day Saints.. Computer program available for $35.00 from Mormons in Salt Lake City. LDS

8. Join a genealogical society to gain help from experienced researchers.

9. Exhaust all sources of information in the United States before attempting research abroad.

10. If you have access to the Internet, check out the various WesSites availabe for researching names in different countries. Remember: If there is a cost for services, be sure to send monies in foreign currency-and always include a self-addressed (stamped) envelope for return information. (Postal coupons for mailing are availbale at your local Postal Service. Check with them for current mailing costs.

11. Make use of all resources available here in the States before venturing across the ocean. Government records beginning with the national and working down to the local city or town.

12. Don't get discouraged, be patient, be persistent.

Courtesy of Richard Doherty - Genealogist in Troy, Michigan