Tracing your family history is a fun and practical hobby. You might discover fascinating facts about your ancestors and you may be able to use your research to develop a family health history. Thanks to an ever-increasing amount of information that is available through the Internet, it has become easier than ever to trace your family history. While some popular genealogy websites charge a subscription fee, there are plenty of free methods---both online and offline---available to assist you with your research.
Step 1
Interview your relatives. Ask them about their childhoods, their parents and their grandparents. Try to gather stories as well as facts. Be sure to reach out beyond your immediate family. A twice-removed cousin might know just the right bit of information that will move your research forward. If you have your relative's email address, you can email your questions. If you have to call a relative who lives far away, call using your cell phone during free (off-peak) phone periods.
Step 2
Visit the branch of your local library that holds genealogical records. Even if you do not have local ancestors, you likely will find a selection of reference books or microfilm rolls that are pertinent to your area of research.
Step 3
Ask your librarian if there is a free interlibrary loan service available to library patrons. If so, you can use this service to borrow genealogy records books from other libraries.
Step 4
Find out if your library carries a subscription to HeritageQuest Online. This website offers U.S. census images, and is available free through many public library systems.
Step 5
Search free online databases for family history information. You can search Ellis Island/Port of New York immigration records through the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation website. A searchable Social Security Death Index is available through RootsWeb.
Step 6
Post queries about your deceased ancestors on genealogy forums and listservs. Look for forums or listservs that are dedicated to the region where your ancestor lived. For best results, make sure that your query clearly indicates the surname that you are researching. If you know some details about your research subject, include them in your query. Details such as date of birth, place of burial or years of military service can help readers identify your ancestor.
Tips and Warnings
- If you can visit a National Archives Records Administration regional facility, you will have access to an abundance of free records that will help you trace your family history.
- Verify family history information before accepting it as fact. Assess the accuracy and reliability of the source and see if a story can be backed up with documentation.
Things You'll Need
- Computer
- Internet connection
- Library card
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