1. How Do I Start My Family History?
1. Write down what you know. 3. Search other sources.
Start with yourself. Use the chart on Gather your records.
the back of this guide to enter the Start with the records you already
family history information you have, and organize them in one place.
already know.
Explore online sources.
If you do not know exact dates and Visit FamilySearch.org for free access
places, estimate them. to family history records, guides, and
resources. You will also find links to
Circle any missing or incomplete other helpful Web sites.
information, and decide what you
want to find first. Get personal help.
Visit a local FamilySearch family
2. Talk with your family. history center for free personal help
and many other valuable services.
Contact your family and friends.
Center staff may also direct you to
Record any useful information and
other local community resources.
stories they provide.
Find a center near you online at
FamilySearch.org.
Ask about copies of birth, marriage,
and death certificates as well as
journals, letters, photos, and other 4. Preserve and share what
records that might be available. you have gathered.
Your relatives and family friends may
Find out if they know other people also be interested to learn more about
you should contact. their ancestors and heritage. You can
preserve, share, and donate your
family history with the help of free
software found at FamilySearch.org.