Family history is a very important part of one’s life. It helps to define who we are and where we come from. It can also provide insight into our personality and character. Everyone has a family history. Whether you know a lot about your family or not, there is always more to learn. With a little digging, such as what was done by James McRoberts‘s family, you can discover new information about your ancestors and where they came from. Keep reading to learn how to get started on your family history journey.
Search for Documents and Records
The first step of researching your family history is to search for documents and records. This can be done in a variety of ways, including online databases, archives, and libraries. The key is to start with what you know and then expand from there. Begin by compiling information such as names, dates of birth and death, places of residence, occupation, and the like. This information can be found on birth certificates, death certificates, census records, marriage licenses, etc. Once you have a basic understanding of your family history, you can begin searching for specific documents that may contain more detailed information about your ancestors.
One great resource for finding documents and records is the internet. There are many online databases that allow you to search for specific information about your family tree. One such database is Ancestry.com. This website contains millions of records from around the world that can help you trace your family’s ancestry. Another great resource for online research is FamilySearch.org. This website contains billions of genealogical records from around the world that can help you build your family tree.
Old Photos, Letters, or Journals
When researching your family history, one of the first things you may want to do is look for any old photos, letters, or journals that could provide clues. These items can help you learn more about your ancestors and their lives. If you’re lucky, you may even find some old family recipes or other historical information that can help you build your family tree, so be sure to check around your house and see if anything exists that could give you a better understanding of your family’s past.
Ask Parents and Grandparents
When looking into your family history, one of the best sources of information is your grandparents and parents. They may have a lot of information about your ancestors that you don’t know about. They can tell you about their lives, including where they grew up and what their family was like. Asking them questions about your family history can help you learn more about your heritage and who you come from.
An Example
As an example of what you could find, let’s delve into James McRoberts’ story and what his family found after conducting research: This man was born in 1836 in Kentucky. He married Martha Jane Hixson in 1857, and the couple had six children. James served in the Civil War with the 9th Kentucky Cavalry Regiment and was honorably discharged in 1865. After the war, James and his family moved to Missouri, where he passed away in 1905.
Through military records, James Mcroberts can be linked to his parents, Robert Mcroberts and Sarah Unknown, as well as siblings David, George, and Nancy. His wife Martha Jane Hixson is also connected to her parents, William Hixson and Elizabeth Unknown, along with siblings John, Hiram, Rebecca, Lucinda, Malinda, and Cynthia. The couples’ six children are also connected to their respective families
Overall, the importance of discovering your family’s past is immense. You can learn about your heritage, your ancestors, and their lives. This information can help you understand yourself and your family better and can give you a greater appreciation for your family history.
