How to Research Your Ancestry for Free

Researching your family ancestry can be both easy and impossible depending upon how much information you can access or already have on hand. While there are many subscription based websites where databases of information are available for your search, there are many free alternatives to help you add the branches to your family tree.

Preparation

• 1

  Decide on which family side--maternal or paternal--you will begin with.

• 2

  Make an outline of the first generation you need to get information on. Include names, estimates of dates and location.

• 3

  Download free PAF genealogy record keeping program and family group sheets for entering data. These are available free online through the Latter Day Saints website.

• 4

  Talk to senior family members and record any bits of information, no matter how insignificant it may seem.

• 5

  Fill in family group sheets with any data you have obtained.

Database Research

• 1

  Search the Latter Day Saints website which provides free records to search through.

• 2

  View completed family files online, but be aware they may not always be accurate.

• 3

  Use the information to look at primary records for verification.

• 4

  Search the LDS film catalog for primary records.

• 5

  Order films to be viewed at local LDS Family History Centers.

• 6

  Visit the local LDS Family History Center and use their microfilm machines to view your ordered records.

Genealogy Forums

• 1

  Conduct a web search for free genealogy discussion forums and list groups. Rootsweb offers surname, state, regional and many other forums and lists you can browse or sign up for volunteer assistance and information sharing.

• 2

  Post a question or name query to connect with others who might also be related to your line.

• 3

  Revisit the forums to check for responses and copy any information received and the source.

Public Records

• 1

  Visit town or city halls, court houses and libraries. If you do not live locally, many volunteers on the forum websites will often get records for you.

• 2

  Write, email or call record offices that are far away to get your information for free.

• 3

  Search cemeteries in the area your ancestor died.

• 4

  Request any records from the cemetery or church office.

• 5

  Look for wills which may contain valuable information.

Family Surname Associations

• 1

  Search online for family associations of the same surname.

• 2

  Contact the association about your particular surname and branch.

• 3

  Reach out to other association members who may descend through your line.

• 4

  Fill in family groups sheets with any information attained and cite your sources.

Record Keeping

• 1

  Record any information you find in each family group sheet.

• 2

  Record the name and location of each source.

• 3

  Move backward through generations as you gain information.