Issue 36.09
Genealogy is a popular pastime. It is natural to be curious about one’s roots and family history. Genealogy allows all of the information to be compiled and passed along to future generations. The Internet has become a powerful tool for genealogists,allowing easier searching of records as well as easier sharing of information between genealogists.
Genealogy is defined as the study of our ancestors and the recording of one’s family history. The information can be recorded in a document known as a family tree or pedigree. Documented information from vital records includes birth,death,and marriage dates,names of spouse(s) and children,and likely pertinent historical or medical data.
A family tree or pedigree is a written record of a family’s genealogy. Genealogies have been hand written and drawn for many years. Although these hand drawn family trees are quite striking,you will probably want to take advantage of computer software that will automatically generate the family tree based on the data that you input. You will want to begin entering information into the computer software and add to it regularly.
One reason genealogy is important is that we are ultimately the product of those who have gone before us. In order to understand ourselves better,it is important to understand where we came from. Additionally,genealogy may be used to find lost relatives or trace a line of descendants from a well-known ancestor or an event in history. Genealogy is also a way to acknowledge the importance and life history of our deceased love ones. Genealogy can be used to put together the life story of an individual family.
Beginning the research on your family tree is often the hardest step. Make it easier on yourself by gathering as much information as possible before you begin. Put the records in a box,somewhere where you will see it daily and think about gathering those records.
As you start putting things together,only work on one line at a time,for example your father’s line or your mother’s mother working backwards. You can eventually compile multiple lines of research,but trying to cross reference everyone at the beginning can be quite daunting. Interview each willing member of your family about siblings,parents and grandparents. Be sure to get as many names,dates and places as possible. Find out if anyone in the family has already performed any genealogical research. Write down everything that you discover and document all of your sources carefully.
Shanna Sullivan Jones is a professional genealogist now accepting new clients. For additional information,Shanna can be reached at (435) 628-4900 or shannasjones@msn.com.
