3 tips to embark on your family history research

Posted by Jackie Cetnar on April 11th, 2019

I as a teenager wanted to a lot about my family history, matter of fact, I would dig each and every hole to find out about them. There weren’t a lot of genealogists back then to help me but today is different and I would like to share some mind boggling tips for you to consider:

1. Treasure hunt at home.
Professional genealogists are seasoned detectives when it comes to family history research: They look for clues, notice patterns, conduct research, and collect data to methodically solve mysteries and uncover family histories. Similar to detectives, these ancestry experts know that some of the most valuable clues in any quest often are hiding in plain sight—at home.
 
Jackie suggests focusing your hunt in the attic, basement, and drawers where photos, documents, and personal correspondence may be stored. Items with dates are especially helpful. Old albums to look for (and photograph if you do not have permission from the owner to take the item) include old pictures, military records, diplomas and report cards, and of course diaries, postcards, and letters.

Tip: If your hunt involves searching through artefacts in relatives’ homes, involve them in the process, if possible. Explain what you are doing and why, invite them to participate, and respect their wishes for how any item you discover will be handled, copied, or stored during your family history research.

2. Talk to your elders.
Relatives older to you, even those who are just 20 minutes older than you—are living libraries,” says Jackie. “Facts about family history, stored in their brains can save you so much trouble down the road.” They can really help you with the Bennett family tree you are trying to make.

Even if you’ve heard family facts—and legends—
your entire life, really taking the time to interview your elders armed with a digital recorder and specific questions will refresh your memory and reveal new details. Plus, if you treasure hunt first and interview second, you will have artefacts to talk about with your relatives. Requesting  them to identify people or places in old photos, for example, can be a catalyst for stories and leads.

Begin by enquiring about your parents, grandparents, and, if possible, great-grandparents and beyond that will reveal foundational knowledge.

Tip: Don’t let your eagerness to gather facts override basic courtesy and respect while creating Bennett family tree. By speaking with multiple relatives and following up with your own research, often you can fill in the blanks without upsetting or alienating anyone.

3. Keep going.
When I first started research on my family history, a lot of times I felt to give up but there was something that kept me going. In many ways, travelling to the place where your ancestors came from will be the reward for all of your hard work. With investing the time and research, going through roadblocks and detours, and being open to accepting whatever you discover, you’ve earned this trip like no other you’ve ever taken before.
If you still find it hard to create a Bennett family tree or do your research, get in touch with Jackie, she can help you further. Visit http://www.familytreesbyjackie.com today.