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== Purpose of the Guide == | == Purpose of the Guide == | ||
The purpose of this guide is to help you discover your ancestry using the records available in the | The purpose of this guide is to help you discover your ancestry using the records available in the FamilySearch Library, the FamilySearch Center, or one of the more than two thousand FamilySearch centers located throughout the world. | ||
== | == FamilySearch Library and Related Services == | ||
==== | ==== FamilySearch Library ==== | ||
Since it was established in 1894, the | Since it was established in 1894, the FamilySearch Library of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has become the largest of its kind in the world. The library has collected millions of microfilms, thousands of microfiche and books, and many other records. Most of the microfilms have been acquired through an extensive microfilming program that began in 1938. Microfilmers are presently filming original documents in churches, courthouses, and other archives in many countries. The originals of these microfilms are preserved in a vault in the mountains near Salt Lake City. The library is located at 35 North West Temple Street, Salt Lake City, Utah. The telephone number is 1-866-406-1830; Email address fhl@familysearch.org.<br> | ||
Copies of the microfilms are available for use at the | Copies of the microfilms are available for use at the FamilySearch Library and in some [https://www.familysearch.org/en/centers/about FamilySearch centers]. The FamilySearch Library is designed to help individuals who need help in learning and searching records to extend their family lines. Some information collected by the library is available on the Internet at [https://www.familysearch.org/ FamilySearch].<br> | ||
==== | ==== FamilySearch Centers ==== | ||
[ | [https://www.familysearch.org/centers/locations/ FamilySearch Centers] are located throughout the world. Each has a basic collection of records and research publications to assist researchers. Each center has computers with Internet access.<br> | ||
==== Services and Resources ==== | ==== Services and Resources ==== | ||
Workers in the Library and | Workers in the Library and FamilySearch center can help you learn how to use the records. They can't do research for you, but can help you use the library's catalog to locate records or Websites, to do your own research. | ||
==== FamilySearch Center ==== | ==== FamilySearch Center ==== | ||
The FamilySearch Center is designed to introduce individuals unacquainted with family history to experience the excitement of discovering their ancestors. The center, located in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building at 15 East South Temple Street in Salt Lake City, has access to the Internet.<br> | The FamilySearch Center is designed to introduce individuals unacquainted with family history to experience the excitement of discovering their ancestors. The center, located in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building at 15 East South Temple Street in Salt Lake City, has access to the Internet.<br> | ||
== Research Process == | == Research Process == | ||
Family History research involves five basic steps. Each step is explained below. Staff members in the | Family History research involves five basic steps. Each step is explained below. Staff members in the FamilySearch Library or FamilySearch centers will be glad to help you complete these steps. A Research Overview is available as a [https://www.familysearch.org/help/helpcenter/lessons/switzerland-online-gazetteer-ortsnamenvideo presentation] to introduce you to the research process. | ||
[[Image:Research Guide1.jpg|Research Guide1]] | [[Image:Research Guide1.jpg|Research Guide1]] | ||
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==== Identify a Record Category ==== | ==== Identify a Record Category ==== | ||
The | The FamilySearch Library and FamilySearch centers have the following basic categories of records. | ||
*Compiled Records | |||
*Original Records | |||
*Background Information -- These are resources dealing with geographical, historical, or cultural information. They include local histories, maps, gazetteers, language dictionaries, and guidebooks. Search these to learn more about the area where your ancestors lived and the events that may have affected their lives and the records about them. | |||
*Finding Aids -- These help you find the location of records; name indexes; library catalogs; or Websites. | |||
==== Compiled Records ==== | |||
==== | |||
These are records of previous research on individuals and families already done by others, such as family histories, biographies, or genealogies with pedigree charts and family group records. Though compiled records are very helpful, some information may be inaccurate or incomplete. The information is submitted by library patrons and is not verified by the FamilySearch Library. Always carefully evaluate the information you find. | |||
It | It can be helpful to search compiled records first. You can save a lot of time by seeing what information others have already found about your family. Compiled records can usually be searched quickly and easily. The following compiled records are available at the FamilySearch Library or FamilySearch centers. | ||
'''Ancestral File''' | |||
Ancestral File is a collection of pedigree and family group records submitted by people throughout the world. It is available on | [[Ancestral File]] is a collection of pedigree and family group records submitted by people throughout the world. It is available on the Internet as part of FamilySearch. It contains millions of names. Using Ancestral File, you can see an ancestor's pedigree, his family (both as a child and as a parent), and his descendants. | ||
You will need the name of your ancestor to search this file. Printed instructions and computerized help messages are available to help you use the file. You may also ask a staff member for assistance. You can hand-copy the information you find, make a printed paper copy at cost, or copy the information onto a storage device, such as a flash drive, to use with your home computer. | You will need the name of your ancestor to search this file. Printed instructions and computerized help messages are available to help you use the file. You may also ask a staff member for assistance. You can hand-copy the information you find, make a printed paper copy at cost, or copy the information onto a storage device, such as a flash drive, to use with your home computer. | ||
'''International Genealogical Index'''<br> | |||
The International Genealogical Index contains millions of names of deceased persons from around the world | The [[International Genealogical Index]] contains millions of names of deceased persons from around the world. It lists birth and marriage information and dates. Many of the names come from original birth and marriage records from the early 1500s to 1875. Other names were researched by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The index is available on computer as part of FamilySearch and on microfiche. | ||
The index identifies only the parents or spouse of a person. It does not show family members linked together in pedigrees or family groups as does Ancestral File. | The index identifies only the parents or spouse of a person. It does not show family members linked together in pedigrees or family groups as does Ancestral File. | ||
'''Family Histories''' | |||
The library has thousands of family histories. In a family history, you may find genealogical information, photographs, biographical sketches, and stories about the family. Books are usually available only in the | The library has thousands of family histories. In a family history, you may find genealogical information, photographs, biographical sketches, and stories about the family. Books are usually available only in the FamilySearch Library. However, most histories are also available on microfilm or microfiche and can be viewed at the FamilySearch Library or some FamilySearch centers. | ||
To find a family history, you will need to use the "Surname" section of the | To find a family history, you will need to use the "Surname" section of the FamilySearch Catalog (if using the microfiche edition) or the "Surname" search in FamilySearch. The catalog does not list every name found in a family history. Only major families found in a history are listed. Look for your ancestor's surname (last name). | ||
After you find catalog entries that contain your ancestor's surname, read the descriptions to see if the family history matches the time period and place in which your ancestor lived. The computer version of the catalog allows you to search for key words in the descriptions. This feature can save you time if many family histories contain your ancestor's surname. | After you find catalog entries that contain your ancestor's surname, read the descriptions to see if the family history matches the time period and place in which your ancestor lived. The computer version of the catalog allows you to search for key words in the descriptions. This feature can save you time if many family histories contain your ancestor's surname. | ||
When you find a book or microfilm that you want to view, write the complete call number, author, and title in your research log (see the example). Then | When you find a book or microfilm that you want to view, write the complete call number, author, and title in your research log (see the example). Then view the film at the FamilySearch Library or any FamilySearch center listed as having a copy of the microfilm. | ||
'''Other Sources of Compiled Records''' | |||
Other sources of compiled records are available. Take your pedigree chart and research log to a staff member to determine whether any of the following sources would be helpful and how to locate them. Most compiled records are described in the [[Introduction to the | Other sources of compiled records are available. Take your pedigree chart and research log to a staff member to determine whether any of the following sources would be helpful and how to locate them. Most compiled records are described in the [[Introduction to the FamilySearch Catalog|FamilySearch Catalog]]. | ||
*Genealogies | *Genealogies | ||
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==== Original Records ==== | ==== Original Records ==== | ||
Most original records in the | These are records created at the time of important events in your ancestors' lives. For example, a local church or the local government may have recorded your ancestors' births, christenings, marriages, and burials. | ||
Most original records in the FamilySearch Library are microfilm copies of records found in courthouses, churches, government offices, historical societies, and other archives throughout the world. Some records are available as books. Others are available on computer as part of FamilySearch. The following are some of the major types of original records available: | |||
===== Vital Records and Civil Registration ===== | ===== Vital Records and Civil Registration ===== | ||
Most government offices keep records of births, marriages, and deaths. In the | Most government offices keep records of births, marriages, and deaths. In the FamilySearch Catalog these records are listed under "Vital Records" for the United States and Canada, and "Civil Registration" for other countries. | ||
===== Church Records ===== | ===== Church Records ===== | ||
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Most national governments conduct periodic censuses. Beginning in 1850, United States federal censuses listed every member of a household by name, with information about sex, age, country or state of birth, and occupation. Census records are especially helpful in determining where your ancestors lived. | Most national governments conduct periodic censuses. Beginning in 1850, United States federal censuses listed every member of a household by name, with information about sex, age, country or state of birth, and occupation. Census records are especially helpful in determining where your ancestors lived. | ||
*[[England | In the UK, census records began in 1801, with detailed censuses beginning in 1841. See: | ||
*[[England Census]] | |||
*[[Wales Census]] | |||
*[[Scotland Census]] | |||
*[[Ireland Census]] | |||
==== Probate Records ==== | |||
When a person dies, court records may be created containing a copy of the person's will, if one exists, and the court's decision about how the estate is to be distributed among his heirs. These are called probate records, and they often provide names and family relationships. | When a person dies, court records may be created containing a copy of the person's will, if one exists, and the court's decision about how the estate is to be distributed among his heirs. These are called probate records, and they often provide names and family relationships. | ||
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Passenger lists or other immigration records may provide the date or ship on which an immigrant ancestor arrived or the name of the port to which he came. | Passenger lists or other immigration records may provide the date or ship on which an immigrant ancestor arrived or the name of the port to which he came. | ||
Note: To find the records of an immigrant's place of origin, you usually need to know the exact city, town, or county where he lived. If you do not know this, search the records of the country to which he migrated. For more information, see the publication Tracing Immigrant Origins, available at the library or | Note: To find the records of an immigrant's place of origin, you usually need to know the exact city, town, or county where he lived. If you do not know this, search the records of the country to which he migrated. For more information, see the publication Tracing Immigrant Origins, available at the library or FamilySearch centers. | ||
===== Other Original Documents ===== | ===== Other Original Documents ===== | ||
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==== Select Specific Records to Search ==== | ==== Select Specific Records to Search ==== | ||
Once you have determined what type of record to search for, you will need to select a specific record. Most original records are listed in the "Locality" (or place) section of the | Once you have determined what type of record to search for, you will need to select a specific record. Most original records are listed in the "Locality" (or place) section of the FamilySearch Catalog. This section lists records by country, state or province, county, or town. You will need to know the place where your ancestor lived and the type of record you chose to search, such as census, land and property, or vital record. The record type is called a topic in the FamilySearch version of the FamilySearch Catalog. | ||
When you find the records for the place where your ancestor lived, read the descriptions to see if a record covers the time period you need. Indexes are often available for original records. If one is available, search the index first. | When you find the records for the place where your ancestor lived, read the descriptions to see if a record covers the time period you need. Indexes are often available for original records. If one is available, search the index first. | ||
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==== Describe the Records on Your Research Log ==== | ==== Describe the Records on Your Research Log ==== | ||
On your research log, record the authors, titles, time periods, and | On your research log, record the authors, titles, time periods, and FamilySearch Library call numbers of any records you select. Your research log might look like the example. You now have the information you need to obtain a record. | ||
==== Summary ==== | ==== Summary ==== | ||
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Identify a record category. Search compiled records first. Then search original records. | Identify a record category. Search compiled records first. Then search original records. | ||
Choose a record type. Use the chart (called "Record | Choose a record type. Use the chart (called "Record Finder") found by searching for the country in the Wiki. | ||
Select specific records to search. Find the locality and record type in the Locality section of the | Select specific records to search. Find the locality and record type in the Locality section of the FamilySearch Catalog. | ||
Describe the records in your research log. | Describe the records in your research log. | ||
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==== Obtain the Record ==== | ==== Obtain the Record ==== | ||
===== At the | ===== At the FamilySearch Library ===== | ||
Records at the | Records at the FamilySearch Library are arranged by geographical area. The call number of the record tells you which area of the library this record is located in and whether it is a book, microfilm, or microfiche. The following are sample call numbers: | ||
FS Library US/CAN Film<br>3075101 Item 7 | |||
FS Library US/CAN Book<br>929.273 P833ph | |||
To obtain the record, do the following: | To obtain the record, do the following: | ||
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Not all microfilms are located in the library. You may need to order some microfilms. A library attendant can help you do this. The microfilm will arrive in a few hours or a few days, depending on where it is stored. | Not all microfilms are located in the library. You may need to order some microfilms. A library attendant can help you do this. The microfilm will arrive in a few hours or a few days, depending on where it is stored. | ||
===== At a | ===== At a FamilySearch Center ===== | ||
Take your research log to a staff member. He or she can tell you whether the center already has the record | Take your research log to a staff member. He or she can tell you whether the center already has the record. | ||
===== Other Repositories ===== | ===== Other Repositories ===== | ||
Not every record about your ancestor is at the | Not every record about your ancestor is at the FamilySearch Library or a FamilySearch center. You may need to obtain copies of some records at other libraries, archives, or government and church offices. | ||
==== Search the Record ==== | ==== Search the Record ==== | ||
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===== Photocopies ===== | ===== Photocopies ===== | ||
Copy centers are located on each floor of the | Copy centers are located on each floor of the FamilySearch Library and the FamilySearch Center. Machines are available to copy books, microfilm, and microfiche. | ||
Many | Many FamilySearch centers have equipment for photocopying books, microfilm, and microfiche. | ||
Please be aware that many of the books, microfilms, and microfiche in the library are copyrighted. The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. | Please be aware that many of the books, microfilms, and microfiche in the library are copyrighted. The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. | ||
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*Notes, research logs, and copies of documents behind the related family group record | *Notes, research logs, and copies of documents behind the related family group record | ||
A number of computer programs can help you organize your records on your home computer. For information about programs that are compatible with FamilySearch (meaning they can share data easily with any FamilySearch file), see a staff member. One of these programs, Personal Ancestral File, is available for use at the | A number of computer programs can help you organize your records on your home computer. For information about programs that are compatible with FamilySearch (meaning they can share data easily with any FamilySearch file), see a staff member. One of these programs, Personal Ancestral File, is available for use at the FamilySearch Library and at most FamilySearch centers. | ||
==== Share Information ==== | ==== Share Information ==== | ||
You can help make research easier and faster for yourself and for others by sharing the results of your research. Share the information you find with family members. They may have more information for you. The | You can help make research easier and faster for yourself and for others by sharing the results of your research. Share the information you find with family members. They may have more information for you. The FamilySearch Library also offers several opportunities for you to share information. | ||
'''Share your family history.''' If you have written a family history, compiled an index, or created a database of genealogical information, you can place it in the | '''Share your family history.''' If you have written a family history, compiled an index, or created a database of genealogical information, you can place it in the FamilySearch Library to be preserved and used by others. If possible, please grant permission (or obtain it from the copyright owner) for the library to microfilm the record and circulate it wherever the library chooses. Contact the Acquisitions Unit, FamilySearch Library, 35 North West Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150, for more information. | ||
==== Repeat the Process ==== | ==== Repeat the Process ==== | ||
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*Another ancestor to learn about. | *Another ancestor to learn about. | ||
You can learn more about how to do research in the and at | You can learn more about how to do research in the and at FamilySearch centers. | ||
We hope this brief introduction will help you develop a lifelong interest in your family history. We invite you to return to the | We hope this brief introduction will help you develop a lifelong interest in your family history. We invite you to return to the FamilySearch Library, the FamilySearch Center, or a FamilySearch center as often as you would like. Please let us know if we can be of any further help. | ||
== Additional Information == | == Additional Information == | ||
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As you search for your family members beyond the first few generations, you will often use original records. Many of these records are not indexed and may be in languages or handwriting you are not familiar with. You can help index names found in original records, thereby making the records more accessible to other researchers. | As you search for your family members beyond the first few generations, you will often use original records. Many of these records are not indexed and may be in languages or handwriting you are not familiar with. You can help index names found in original records, thereby making the records more accessible to other researchers. | ||
Thousands of volunteers are helping to extract or index information from vital, census, and immigration records. | |||
Thousands of volunteers are helping to extract or index information from vital, census, and immigration records | |||
=== Other Services === | === Other Services === | ||
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==== Orientation ==== | ==== Orientation ==== | ||
A brief orientation program is available at the | A brief orientation program is available at the FamilySearch Library. To preserve the quiet research environment of the library, guided tours are not provided. FamilySearch centers may provide orientation programs, including guided tours. Ask a staff member. | ||
An orientation to | An orientation to FamilySearch and the FamilySearch Center is available on each FamilySearch computer in the center. | ||
==== Group Visits ==== | ==== Group Visits ==== | ||
For group visits, please contact the | For group visits, please contact the FamilySearch Library, the FamilySearch Center, or a FamilySearch center in advance for a list of services, hours, holiday schedules, and other information that can make your visit more successful. Basic services are listed in the publication FamilySearch Library and FamilySearch Centers Services and Resources. This publication is updated annually. Ensure that your group is prepared to use the facility. In the FamilySearch Library and FamilySearch Center, you can request a room for classes or meetings. The FamilySearch Center has rooms available with FamilySearch computers for group activities. | ||
When you are in the research areas of the | When you are in the research areas of the FamilySearch Library, please separate into groups of no more than five, with a leader for each group. | ||
==== Additional Instruction ==== | ==== Additional Instruction ==== | ||
Ask a staff member about classes, printed aids, video training programs, and other instructional resources. Genealogical forms and instructional publications are available for sale. In the | Ask a staff member about classes, printed aids, video training programs, and other instructional resources. Genealogical forms and instructional publications are available for sale. In the FamilySearch Library, items for sale are located near each copy center. | ||
==== Accredited Genealogists<sup>®</sup> and Certified Genealogists<sup>(SM)</sup> | ==== Accredited Genealogists<sup>®</sup> and Certified Genealogists<sup>(SM)</sup> ==== | ||
'''(Professional Researchers) '''<br> | '''(Professional Researchers) '''<br> | ||
Two agencies license professional genealogical researchers: <br>1. The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists® (ICAPGen) <br>2. The Board for Certification of Genealogists® (BCG). <br>Both organizations carefully test the research skills of their members | Two agencies license professional genealogical researchers: <br>1. The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists® (ICAPGen) <br>2. The Board for Certification of Genealogists® (BCG). <br>Both organizations carefully test the research skills of their members before granting licensure. Both require their members to sign a code of ethics and have the members renew their credentials every five years. <br>A list of Accredited Genealogists can be found at [http://www.icapgen.org www.icapgen.org].<br>A list of Certified Genealogists can be found at [http://www.bcgcertification.org www.bcgcertification.org]. | ||
==== Correspondence ==== | ==== Correspondence ==== | ||
The | The FamilySearch Library will respond to any questions that can be answered briefly but does not provide a research service. Ask a staff member for a Reference Questionnaire form on which to send your question. | ||
==== | ==== FamilySearch Centers ==== | ||
FamilySearch Centers are located throughout the world. Some of them have copies of the FamilySearch Library's microfilms. Go to the following [https://www.familysearch.org/centers/locations/ website] to find the nearest FamilySearch Center. Call ahead to see if films are available. | |||
==== Other Libraries and Archives ==== | ==== Other Libraries and Archives ==== | ||
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Excellent information is available from courthouses, libraries, archives, and societies. Ask a staff member for addresses and more information. | Excellent information is available from courthouses, libraries, archives, and societies. Ask a staff member for addresses and more information. | ||
== Library Rules == | == Library Rules == | ||
The | The FamilySearch Library, the FamilySearch Center, and FamilySearch centers offer their services to the public with the understanding that those who use the collection will abide by the guidelines governing such use. Please observe the following rules so that all patrons can successfully use the facilities: | ||
*Please handle the equipment, books, and other materials carefully. | *Please handle the equipment, books, and other materials carefully. | ||
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*Do not leave personal belongings unattended. The library or center is not responsible for items that are lost or stolen. | *Do not leave personal belongings unattended. The library or center is not responsible for items that are lost or stolen. | ||
*Children under twelve must be kept under the control of their parents. | *Children under twelve must be kept under the control of their parents. | ||
*Food and drinks are not permitted in a | *Food and drinks are not permitted in a FamilySearch center. In the FamilySearch Library, they are permitted only in the snack room. | ||
*Smoking is not permitted anywhere in the building or on the grounds. | *Smoking is not permitted anywhere in the building or on the grounds. | ||
The | The FamilySearch Library has the following additional rules. Ask a staff member at the FamilySearch Center or a FamilySearch center for the rules for their facilities. | ||
*You may take up to five rolls of microfilm from the cabinets at any given time. Please refile each microfilm you use. | *You may take up to five rolls of microfilm from the cabinets at any given time. Please refile each microfilm you use. | ||
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|- | |- | ||
| OBJECTIVE<br>To obtain information about— | | OBJECTIVE<br>To obtain information about— | ||
| colspan="2" | RECORD TYPES<br>Look in the | | colspan="2" | RECORD TYPES<br>Look in the FamilySearch Catalog, Locality section for these record types: | ||
|- | |- | ||
| <br> | | <br> | ||
| First look for: | | First look for: | ||
| Then look for: | | Then look for: | ||
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<nowiki>*Outside the United States and Canada, see "Civil Registration" instead of "Vital Records."</nowiki> | <nowiki>*Outside the United States and Canada, see "Civil Registration" instead of "Vital Records."</nowiki> | ||
Note: Also search the [[Introduction to the | Note: Also search the [[Introduction to the FamilySearch Catalog|FamilySearch Catalog]] , using the Subject section for key topics in your objective. | ||
== Related Content == | == Related Content == | ||
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*[[Principles of Family History Research|Principles of Family History Research]] | *[[Principles of Family History Research|Principles of Family History Research]] | ||
<br> | <br> | ||
<br> | <br> | ||
[[Category:Beginners]] [[Category: | [[Category:Beginners]] [[Category:Basic Research Process]] ]] | ||
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