The photo albums and shoe boxes full of family mementoes are only the beginning of the journey to discover the family history. Where do you start your search once the names, dates and other pertinent information are organized in your binder?
A simple beginning step is checking out the genealogy web sites on the Internet. Numerous web sites exist with free beginners information and research tips. After you read the articles on how to use the Internet to find your ancestors you are ready to move onto actual research.
The most popular web sites allow you to search their databases for basic information for free. For more in-depth information there may be a fee or a monthly charge.
The following web sites will help you begin or expand your family tree.
Ancestry (www.ancestry.com) - Genealogy, family trees and family history records online. Search billions of records for information.
Genealogy (www.genealogy.com) - Learning center, how-to articles, free genealogy courses, and genealogy resources.
Family Search (www.familysearch.org) - Family history, family tree and genealogy records/resources from around the world.
The Internet is the gateway to an information extravaganza. So grab your binder, brush the dust off the family mementoes and get ready to surf the web.
Cindy Sue Blair is an internationally syndicated columnist. Her articles appear in publications throughout the US, Canada and Europe. Read her blog and listen to her radio show at www.ExploreTheMidwest.com.
© Cindy Sue Blair 2008