Genealogy News Wrap-up: December 2022

December 2022 was a busy month for genealogy enthusiasts, with several exciting developments and updates. Here’s a roundup of the most significant news from the world of family history research.

New Online Resources

Several new online resources emerged in December, offering valuable tools for genealogy research:

• Ancestry.com launched a new feature called “Family Tree Hints” that uses artificial intelligence to suggest potential matches for your family tree. The feature analyzes your existing data and identifies possible connections to other records and individuals.
• MyHeritage.com introduced a new “DNA Matching” feature that allows you to connect with relatives through your DNA results. The feature provides insights into your genetic heritage and helps you uncover new branches of your family tree.
• Findmypast.com released a new collection of digitized records from the United Kingdom, including birth, marriage, and death certificates, as well as census records. This collection offers valuable insights into the lives of your ancestors and helps you trace their movements across time.

Updates to Existing Resources

Several existing online resources received significant updates in December, making them more user-friendly and informative:

• FamilySearch.org announced a new partnership with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which will allow users to access even more historical records and family histories.
• GenealogyBank.com expanded its collection of digitized newspapers, adding new titles from various states and regions. This update provides access to a wealth of historical information, including obituaries, birth announcements, and social news.
• Newspapers.com launched a new feature that allows users to search for specific individuals mentioned in historical newspapers. This feature streamlines the process of finding relevant information about your ancestors in the news archives.

Tips for Successful Genealogy Research

Here are some tips to enhance your genealogy research in 2023:

• Start with what you know. Begin your research by focusing on your immediate family and gathering as much information as possible about their lives. This will provide a foundation for expanding your research.
• Explore various resources. Don’t rely solely on online databases. Explore local archives, libraries, and historical societies for additional information.
• Document your findings. Keep detailed records of your research, including sources, dates, and locations. This will help you avoid duplication and ensure accurate information.
• Be patient and persistent. Genealogy research can be time-consuming and challenging. Don’t get discouraged if you hit dead ends. Keep exploring and you’ll eventually uncover new leads.

Conclusion

December 2022 brought exciting updates and new resources for genealogy enthusiasts. By staying informed about these developments and utilizing the available tools, you can enhance your family history research and uncover fascinating stories about your ancestors. Happy researching!