Free Genealogy Resources

There are a growing number of useful and freeto set an appointment. The genealogy centers are
genealogy and family history resources, tools, andfree to the public and the staff is typically well
websites.trained and helpful.
Family Search WebsitePublic Records Databases
One of the most active organizations in genealogyCity, county, and State public records are available
is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saintsfor your review with a little effort. These records
- the Mormon Church. Their flagship genealogyare not always the easiest to navigate. But
information FamilySearch website is one of thegenerally there is someone there who can assist
most comprehensive databases of family historyyou. You may be surprised to find a few nuggets
and genealogical information in the world. What isof important genealogy information by searching
more, it is a growing genealogy database thatthese old records. Be aware that many of these
increases in size and scope with each passing day.old records have been transferred over the years
The Mormon family search website is free to useto microfilm and microfiche. The family history
and is well worth your time to explore.centers of the Mormon church can provide advice
Personal Ancestral File Free Genealogy Softwareon how to access these archived records. Public
Again, from the Mormon Church, PAF - orrecords databases may include information on
Personal Ancestral File, is a free genealogywills, land and property deeds, marriage
download available on the home page of theinformation, household census information,
Family Search website. The PAF genealogyimmigration records, and other vital pieces of
software is extremely powerful and user friendlyfamily history and genealogy information.
and provides an excellent repository for all ofCemeteries
your genealogy information. It has a robustIt can be exciting to search old cemeteries where
pedigree or family tree feature as well as familyyou know that ancestors have lived and died.
group sheet templates to create your ownQuite often these cemeteries will contain the
extensive family history and genealogicalgraves of one or more of your relatives.
information database.Headstones generally have very accurate
Free Family History Information Centersinformation regarding birth, death, and often
The Mormon Church has a very extensivemarriage dates. Some headstones even include
network of Genealogy Libraries and Family Historyinformation on children born to the deceased. A
Centers. Listings for the family history centersvisit to one or more cemeteries in the vicinity of
can be found in the white pages under Theknown ancestral homesteads can yield a great
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Thedeal of genealogy information. It is wise to not
centers are located in many cities and are staffedonly make careful notes when visiting these
during the day and into the evenings with trainedcemeteries but also to take photos of the
volunteers. The centers are equipped with anancestral headstones you discover. Don't forget
extensive array of computer and microficheto note the name and location of the cemetery!
resources. Schedules may vary so it is wise to call