So what type of supplies do we really need? We need to look at the sources we can tap into to make this new hobby both satisfying and successful. In brief we need to focus on those key elements that enable us to research our family tree efficiently and effectively. Firstly, we will look at our genealogical sources; secondly, we will set up our storage system and finally we will evaluate the various sites and software we can use.
1 Sources Words, words and yet more words! But not all have yet been written down. Genealogy and its sister discipline Family History best start by word of mouth. By talking to our older relatives we can acquire lots of facts and memories of our more recent ancestors. All this needs to be recorded in a systematic and orderly fashion. Sometimes we can record people?s reminiscences on a tape-recorder. This can be a little intimidating so make sure they are willing to have their thoughts recorded. If they are too nervous and apprehensive to talk into a machine simply take out your note-book and record all the details concerning the date, time and what has been shared with you in confidence.
Then there are all the printed records that you can easily acquire. Probably you already have a fair number of Certificates of Birth, Marriage and Death tucked away in the family archives. There will be old family photographs, news cuttings, and memorabilia of all kinds, especially if the family hasn?t moved house too often and old documents have been handed down through the generations. But how should we organize all this information?
2 Storage A very basic supply is a good sturdy notebook. As time goes on you will accumulate an ever- increasing quantity of data. When the notebook is bursting at the seams, most of us move on to an expanding file system, with provision for each topic or family branch, all clearly labeled. Then as information continues to build, we move to a box file system, with adequate space for each branch of the family tree. In this way you will be able to keep all of your documents properly organized. However today most people start with notebooks and end up with data stored on a PC or laptop.
Many researchers use laptops whether at home or out and about. They are both popular and practical for recording information gleaned from microfiche slides and registers in Record Offices. Probably the wisest thing is to maintain records in both hard copy and on computer. Then if the hard disk fails precious detailed research work will not be lost forever. You may even need to make copies of the information you collect from other people. A scanner for the computer is almost a ?must have?.
3 Sites and Software After a while most researchers in this field find themselves drawn towards the Internet, and once they discover what is freely available get hooked for life! There are lots and lots of websites that together provide a vast, wide-ranging resource. Most sites are easy to use but require a small fee. Investing in these sites can make your task so much easier.
Then there is a wide range of genealogy software to assist you. With genealogy software you can now record and organize all the data, both images and documents, that you may have assembled onto your computer?s hard disk. We are spoilt for choice when it comes to downloading free charts and diagrams, as there is a whole range of templates to help build and record your family tree. Enjoy!
Finding your Genealogy Supplies
This article may be reprinted free of charge provided that the article remains unchanged, and the author?s resource box is included in the reprint.
Stephen Taylor is a ardent genealogy enthusiast who would love to inspire others to take up this fascinating hobby.
For more great information visit: http://www.familyhistorysecrets.com/building-a-family-tree/
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