This step-by-step comprehensive book on genealogy covers every possible way of discovering who your ancestors were and how they lived. Birth and marriage records are some of the easiest documents to find For death records, death certificates, obituaries, funeral homes, cemeteries and tombstones are uncovered. Don't forget interviewing relatives. Some won't want to talk "about those old people", and some will try to get you sidetracked with stories; methods of drawing out the facts are discussed. Organization is not overlooked because it is vital once you begin collecting reams of documents. Locating where ancestors lived can be tricky because the county you found them in may not exist anymore.
Census records are a favorite of every genealogist. Explanations are given where to find censuses in 1790 - 1930 are given, along with how to read them and get all the information on your ancestor they provide. But old hand writing can be tricky, because 150 years ago, people formed common letters different than we do today. Examples are given along with explanations on how to read old records are given.
Was your ancestor in World War II, World War I, the Spanish-American War, the Civil War, the War of 1812, the Indian Wars, the Revolutionary War? All are explained and websites listed where to find their records.
Fraternal organizations provide surprise information on many ancestors: Grange, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers & Trainmen, Elks, Knights of Labor, American Federation of Labor, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Moose, Freemasons, Shriners, Kiwanis, Lions Club and other such organization are discussed along with websites where you can find their records. Also, information on how to find the archives of old newspapers is given.
This book has something for everyone, whether beginner or intermediate.