Genealogy Hints
Genealogical Society of Marion County, IndianaList living relatives
Make a list of all living relatives when you start your genealogy research. Interview each of them. Be prepared with a list of questions. Use a tape recorder for the answers or take very good notes. Respect the person's privacy, but do not delay; relatives have a nasty habit of dying before being interviewed.
Organize
Organize from the beginning in a system that suits your needs, but in which you can quickly and easily find information when you need it. If your system does not work, change it.
focus
Each generation doubles the number of ancestors. It's easy to get lost if you do not plan ahead to reach your goal. Focus on one or two families so you do not become overwhelmed. The other families will be there when you are ready for them.
Plan & Goals
Meaningful genealogy requires thought and more importantly, focus. Develop a plan (1) Why am I doing genealogy? (2) Set goals for what you plan to accomplish in a reasonable time period i.e. go back four generations, go back to the immigrant ancestor, do only my father's male line, etc.
genealogy purpose
The study of genealogy will enable you to learn about your family and your place in that family, to leave a legacy for your children and grandchildren
son-in-law
In early American History, the term "son-in-law" referred to one's step-son or the husband of one's daughter.
Place
"Genealogy of Place" is vital to your research. Determine where the town/county/state is located and how boundaries have changed over time.
Minimum identification
Minimum identification includes: name, birth date and birthplace of an ancestor.
Citation purpose
Cite enough information so another person could easily find the source later.
research log
Record every search, good or bad, on your research log.