How to Start Building Your Family Tree
Building your family tree is an exciting and accessible way to explore your family history. With advancements in research methods, such as genetic genealogy and affordable DNA tests, a wealth of tools and technologies are available to kickstart your genealogical journey. If you're unsure about where to begin, this guide will provide you with the essential steps to get started.
Gather Key Information about Known Family Members
Start by collecting important facts about yourself and your relatives, working backward through each generation. Record vital details such as dates and places of birth, marriage, and death. Include significant life events like immigration stories, employment information, and community involvement to enrich your family tree. Don't forget to note the names of close relatives, like siblings, and any additional information you may have. Even rough estimates or family rumors can serve as valuable leads. Engaging in conversations with immediate and extended family members, such as parents, aunts, uncles, and grandparents, can provide valuable insights when initiating your research.
Choose the Right Genealogy Website
Explore various genealogy websites to find the platform that suits your needs. Ancestry, MyHeritage, Findmypast, and FamilySearch are popular choices among family historians. While most platforms offer free tree-building options, access to comprehensive record databases and advanced research features often requires a subscription. Consider the following factors when selecting a genealogy website:
Evaluate the range of record access available on each platform, including both free and paid resources. Websites like FamilySearch offer valuable free resources to kickstart your research, while paid platforms like Ancestry and MyHeritage provide enhanced features for deeper exploration. Take advantage of free trials offered by paid websites to test multiple platforms before committing.
Consider the regional focus of the website. Ancestry caters primarily to North American genealogy, while MyHeritage and Findmypast are more popular among UK-based family historians. Look into which platform offers the most relevant resources for your heritage.
Explore member networks and collaboration options. Platforms like FamilySearch heavily rely on user collaboration for building comprehensive trees, while others provide optional features like user messaging and access to user-submitted content such as family photos and non-database documents.
Use genetic genealogy to enrich your family tree by linking a DNA test to your research. Explore platforms like Ancestry and MyHeritage that provide convenient in-house DNA tests, seamlessly linking to your tree and unlocking ancestor suggestions. You can also upload your raw DNA file to versatile platforms such as GEDMATCH. These platforms offer DNA analysis but not DNA testing. This opens up possibilities to discover DNA matches beyond a single genealogy website. Prioritize your research goals and choose the platform that aligns with your specific needs for a comprehensive DNA testing experience.
Start Building Your Tree
Once you've chosen a genealogy website, begin entering the information you've gathered. Genealogy platforms use algorithms to match the details you provide with their extensive record collections, offering suggested records likely linked to your ancestors. Depending on the platform and subscription requirements, you can review these records and determine if they match your ancestor. Documents like census and birth records often include information about other family members, making it easier to expand your family tree.
Building your family tree is an exciting adventure into your unique family history. By gathering key information about your known family members, choosing the right genealogy website, and taking the first steps to build your tree, you're embarking on a journey of discovery and connection. As you get further along in your research journey, working with a genealogical researcher can unlock even more exciting family stories. Happy tracing!
