Genealogy Help Pages
Presented by Gene's Genealogy Page
Here are some Common Questions that you might have about researching your family History and some of the answers to those questions.
1. How do I get started?
I recommend first that you should talk to all of the older people in your family, they will be your best source of leads to work on and they probably know some of the people you are searching for. Another good idea is to have all the nessesary tools for doing the research (I will tell what they are later in the list). Talk with your Grandparents or if possible Great-Grandparents as they are a treasure chest of information. Take notes when you speak with them in case you forget something they might have said, and last, Find as many supporting documents as you can such as Birth, Death and Marriage Certificates to prove your research.
2. Whar do I need to start out with?
That depends on you and personal preferences, I think that blank information sheets are good for starters and three ring binders are a must to keep your written information in. A good set of pens and pencils and also a large amount of scratch paper for notes. Another good idea to have is to purchase a Genealogy Software program such as Family Tree Maker or Family Origins or Generations. These are all fine software packages that are easy to use and come packed with lots of information, tips and research material. Finally I recommend a good tape recorder and a Video Camera if you have one.
3. Where do I go for Public records like Birth and Death Certificates?
Usually your local county Probate court has all that information and charges a small fee for certified copies of those documents. The Rules Vary by location. You can also request records from the United States Vital Statistic office and get the order forms at your nearest Federal Archives Center. For Overseas Birth and death records contact your American Consulate.
4. How much does the average Genealogy Program cost these days?
They cost around 29-100 US Dollars depending on how new the program is and what comes with it.
5. What is the best way to publish Genealogy Pedigrees and pages to the internet without buying Genealogy Software?
The best way to publish your Gedcom Files to the internet without having to buy a program is to go to www.download.com and search for a FREE program called ged2html. It will get the job done. If you want more control over how the information is laid out on your page, you can maually type it out. My Page Has Examples Check ou the Reports from the Non-Graphics Page I prefer to put my information in by hand so I have control over the way the information is displayed.
6. What are some other good sources of information?
Okay... Here's what comes to mind
a. Cemetaries (you can get birth and death dates there) also some families are buried together.
b. Probate Court- Birth, Death, Marriage, Land records and Town hall meetings, Wills and Adoption records
c. Libraries- Great for references and additional factual information.
d. State and Federal archive offices- They have everything you can think of there. Microfiche, Census, Records and deeds Old Military records.
7. Whar should I do about listing information in my Genealogy Program about Living people?
You should NEVER publish information about people that are living without their Consent. It is a matter of saftey, privacy and ettiquette.
8. Do you know any good sites on the Internet for Genealogy or research, chat areas things of that nature?
Yeap..... Here's my list :-)
A. www.rootsweb.com -The best mailing and discussion list around!
B. www.ancestry.com -Another Great site that Has GEDCOM files that you can download. Searches or queries can be entered here. You can also submit your file to them for the World Family Tree.
C. www.familytreemaker.com -This is the maker of the worlds Most popular Genealogy Software Program, They have user Homepages and also Searchable databases.
d. www.familysearch.org - this site was Created by the LDS and is brand new! It has the best selection of information from all over the world, the ability to search databases or surnames and you can subscribe or create your own mailing list.
E. www.genforum.com -This site is owned by Family Tree maker and is in my opinion the best place to post your queries to about ancestors or Genealogy questions. I've found several internet cousins.
9. Is there anywhere else to get help with researching?
Yes there is... Visit local Historical Societies in your area or on the Internet (Heartland Has one right here in Geocities!)
10. Can you help me with Genealogy Research if I have questions? Can you help with my website?
The answer to both questions is yes! Send your questions to Crispin-Webmaster and I will get back with you shortly :-)
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