Getting Started

Three practical tips for those just starting their family research.

Getting started with your family history can be a bit overwhelming. Follow these three basic tips and you'll avoid some of the common traps that beginners fall into.

Start with Yourself

• Work backwards through each generation.
• Work from the known to the unknown.
• Interview relatives, particularly those older than yourself.
• Write or talk to family members.
• Ask them about family names, where the people lived, when and from where they emigrated.
• Some records may be held within the family; e.g. letters, school yearbooks, wills, photographs, birth, marriage and death certificates.

Keep Records

• Write down what you find and where - you may want to go back at a later stage. For example:
  
  • What institution?
  • Which collection of records?
  • What volume and page number?
  • Which microfilm reel?
• Record the sources you have searched, even if the results are negative.

Chart Your Progress

• Various family history charts recommended by the New Zealand Society of Genealogists can be downloaded from their website.
• Many genealogical computer programs are now available. A local genealogy group may be able to advise you on the pros and cons of the various programs.