Genealogy Tips for the Holidays

The holidays are a great time to connect with family and learn more about your family history. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Ask Questions

One of the best ways to learn about your family history is to simply ask your relatives. During holiday gatherings, take the opportunity to chat with your older family members and ask them about their childhood, their parents, and their grandparents. You might be surprised at what you learn.

2. Collect Family Photos

Another great way to learn about your family history is to collect family photos. Many families have old photo albums that are filled with treasures. Take the time to look through these albums and identify the people in the photos. You can also ask your relatives to share stories about the photos.

3. Create a Family Tree

Once you have gathered some information about your family, you can start to create a family tree. There are many online resources that can help you create a family tree, such as Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org. You can also create a family tree by hand using a piece of paper and a pen.

4. Visit Family Archives

If you are serious about learning more about your family history, you can visit family archives. These archives may contain birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, and other documents that can help you trace your family's lineage. You can find family archives at local libraries, historical societies, and genealogical societies.

5. Use Online Resources

There are many online resources that can help you with your genealogy research. These resources include websites, databases, and forums. Some of the most popular genealogy websites include Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and MyHeritage.com.

6. Visit Family Cemeteries

Visiting family cemeteries can be a great way to learn more about your ancestors. You can find out where they are buried, when they died, and sometimes even their age at death. You can also find out if there are any other family members buried in the same cemetery.

7. Join a Genealogy Society

Joining a genealogy society is a great way to connect with other people who are interested in family history. Genealogy societies often have meetings, workshops, and other events that can help you learn more about your family's history. You can find genealogy societies in your local area or online.

8. Don't Give Up

Genealogy research can be challenging, but it is also very rewarding. Don't give up if you hit a roadblock. There are always new resources and techniques being developed that can help you break through a brick wall.

By following these tips, you can make the most of the holidays to learn more about your family history. Happy researching!