What is it with the desire to learn more about the people who came before us and how do you conduct research on family history?
Ever since I can remember, I've felt an invisible pull to learn more about the past, especially when it comes to family history, and I'm not the only one. Learning about our progenitors and where we come from gives us a better sense of self and belonging. My research eventually led me not only to learning about my ancestors but to writing about them. The more I researched, the more I uncovered incredible stories of courage and faith, the good and the bad. I couldn't get the stories out of my head, so I decided to put them on paper, and that's how my stories evolved.
How and where do I do my research?
First, start where you are with what you have, even if it's just your parents' names. The further you can go back, the better, but you'd be surprised by what you can find. Take what information you have and plug it into online programs or local genealogical centers.
Platforms such as Ancestry, FamilySearch, or MyHeritage are really helpful. Local churches can also be a great source and often have people who can help, especially The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which has extensive records and volunteers ready to assist.
Besides local resources and online sites, I recommend visiting the place(s) you are researching. Nothing can replace re-life visits where you can see, smell, hear, touch (and even taste the salty air of a place). The best research I've found has come from local historians, memorials, historical sites, museums, and personal visits to the place. It can be pricey, but it's worth it.
Writing Family Stories
Most of the books I write about are from my own family history. First, I have to find someone to write about, usually by discovering them on FamilySearch or Ancestry. Next, I research as much as I can about that person, including plowing through old documents if any are posted, searching through birth and death records, land deeds, museums, libraries, and consulting local historians.
A significant part of my research involves retelling what was happening in the world around them, in order to do so, I read as many books as I can get my hands on and fit into my busy schedule to learn what life was like for them. Where did they live? What did it look like? What was going on around them politically and culturally? Are there any other records of them? You'd be surprised by how much information you can find. Unfortunately, most people don't have more than basic dates, but some do, and that opens a floodgate of information, like a giant jigsaw puzzle you can start to piece together.
If you'd like to learn more about my research methods, are interested in my historical fictions based on real people, or just need help, please feel free to reach out.
