The best way to get started researching family history is to look through records held by statutory bodies. These include the Registrar General’s office (for births, marriages, deaths), Parish records, public employment records, immigration data, and property lists. As you can imagine, plenty of information awaits you!
Your First Stop: Online for Family History Research
Initially, all this information can feel overwhelming. You might wonder where to begin! Well, your first step should be the internet. Online platforms make it much easier to trawl through official records; many are already digital. This saves you time, as you don’t need to visit physical locations. It also saves you money on train fares or petrol for travel.
Libraries: A Rich Source for Family History Research
Perhaps you prefer to get out, talk to people, explore new places, or enjoy lunch somewhere different. If so, head to a large public library in your chosen area! Most larger libraries offer newspaper cuttings you can examine. They also have extensive reference books that can boost your family history research. Of course, librarians are also there to help you locate specific documents when you hit a brick wall.
Inspire Your Research with Success Stories
Well-known ancestry websites can also help. Platforms like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org (example outbound links, replace with actual links if possible) provide documents to simplify your research. They also offer ready-made family trees and provide handy tips. You’ll also find encouragement when things don’t go as planned. For instance, you can read inspiring stories of successful family history research to give you that extra motivation when you feel a bit stuck.
Searching “Underground” for Your Ancestors
It might feel a little ghoulish, but graveyards offer a good way to check for ancestors too. They can also instill a sense of peace if your search feels a little frantic.
And speaking of times past, an ancient historic site can provide the inspiration you might lack. This can rejuvenate your family history research once again.
Let Us Research Your Family Tree
Here at Fleetwood Heir Hunters, we specialize in searching for individuals. This includes beneficiaries of Wills who have, until now, remained at large. We can also research and write up your family tree for you if you simply lack the time. Just tell us which side of the family line you would like us to trace, and we’ll get started. We always ensure we can delve back as far as the 1800s. You can learn more about our specific genealogy service here. (Example internal link, replace with actual link).
Meanwhile, if you would like your family tree framed to exhibit at home or give as a gift, we also provide a framing service.
Get In Touch for Your Family History Needs
To get a free estimate to hire a genealogist, give our team a call. Similarly, if you need help locating an individual, we can assist with that too. Call Fleetwood Heir Hunters at 020 8970 7486 or email us at info@fleetwoodheirhunters.co.uk. We will get back to you as soon as possible, usually within 48 hours, with a quote. You might also find our guide on what heir hunters do helpful.