Start your journey into family history

Discover your roots and preserve your family’s story with our comprehensive guide to genealogical research. Learn proven methods to uncover your heritage and connect with your past.

Begin your research
Start your journey into family history

Why genealogical research matters

Genealogical research connects us to our heritage, preserves family stories for future generations, and helps us understand the journeys our ancestors took. Every family has a unique story waiting to be discovered through careful research and documentation.

Discovering my great-grandmother’s immigration story changed how I viewed my family’s resilience and gave me a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made for our future.

Sara M. Family Historian

Step-by-step research guide

1.
Start with what 
you know
Begin by collecting family names, dates, and oral histories from relatives. Document everything you already know before search for new information.
Start with what 
you know
Tip:
Record conversations with older relatives. Their memories are invaluable primary resources.
2.
Organize your information
Use family tree software, spreadsheets, or notebooks to organize your findings. Good organization saves time and prevents confusion later.
Organize your information
Tip:
Start with free tools like FamilySearch or simple spreadsheets before investing in premium software.
3.
Explore public 
records
Search birth, marriage, and death certificates, census data, and immigration records. These official documents provide verified facts about your ancestors.
Explore public 
records
Tip:
Start with the most recent records and work backwards chronologically for best results.
4.
Visit archives 
and libraries
Local archives, historical societies, and libraries often hold unique records not available online. Many offer digital collections and research assistance.
Visit archives 
and libraries
Tip:
Contact archives before visiting to understand their collections and research policies.
5.
Verify and cross-check sources
Always verify information with multiple sources. Avoid assumptions and properly cite all sources to maintain research integrity.
Verify and cross-check sources
Tip:
If information conflicts between sources, investigate further rather than choosing what seems most convenient.
6.
Connect with community
Join genealogical societies, online forums, and family history groups. Other researchers often have valuable insights and may share common ancestors.
Connect with community
Tip:
Local communities often have access to unique records and experienced people willing to help.
7.
Preserve and share your findings
Create detailed family trees. write family stories, and contribute to archives. Sharing your research helps preserve history and may help other researchers.
Preserve and share your findings
Tip:
Create both digital and physical copies of important findings to ensure long-term preservation.

Essential research resources

Our archives contain extensive genealogical resources including:

  • Historical family records and documents
  • Immigration and naturalization papers
  • Local community histories
  • Oral history collections
Explore our collections

Other resources and tools

FamilySearch – Free genealogy records National Archives – Government records Immigration records databases Local historical society websites

Begin your family history journey today

Every family has a story worth preserving. Through careful research and documentation, you’ll uncover remarkable tales of resilience, love, and adventure that shaped your family’s path. Start today and give future generations the gift of knowing their heritage.

Explore archival resources

Photograph from the “Cottages and Resorts” archive collection (1960s).

Frequently asked questions

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