A Genealogist Goldmine: Family History Centers Part 1

If you are new to genealogy and just starting to gather information about your family tree, you have probably heard people mention the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, Utah from several of the genealogy message boards.

The Family History Library has the largest collections of genealogical records under one roof. They have everything from vital records like, census, land, probate, immigrations, birth, marriage, and death, church records, plus many other records of genealogical value that are sent around the world every month.

Most of the information they have can be sent to what they call a Family History Center. Almost every city in the U.S. has at least 2, as well as in other countries. This is like inter library loans.

The best thing about the Family History Library is that you can access it on the Internet to find out what sources they hold, and then you can visit your local Family History Center to request the records for viewing.

Lets explore the Family History Library's resources together from the comfort of your own home.

First and foremost, the Family History Library was founded and is run by the, The Church of the Latter-day Saints. You don't have to worry about someone pushing their religion on you when you visit your local Family History Center. The Latter-day Saints believe and encourage families to identify and research their ancestors. They only wish to share family history information they have collected with people of all faiths. They are very helpful in showing you the ropes and will answer any questions you may have.

Now on to the Family History Library web site. Once there you will see three main options: Search for Ancestors, Share Information and Family History Library System. For beginners the best option is to start with the, Search for Ancestors

Once you click on, Search for Ancestors, you will be prompted to enter your ancestors name. Try to enter as much information as you can, this way the search will be narrowed down and the chances of a closer match are possible. If you don't get any or just a few matches, go back to the previous page and just enter the name of your ancestor. You will have to search through a large amount of hits but it might be worth your time after all.

When your search page comes up you will see tabs named Ancestral File, International Genealogical Index (IGI), and Pedigree Resource File.

The Ancestral File is genealogical information that people throughout the world have submitted. Each one is linked to pedigrees to show both ancestors and descendants of the individual.

The International Genealogical Index (IGI) list the dates and places of births, christenings, and marriages. Almost all have been taken from original records from the early 1500's to the early 1900's.

The Pedigree Resource File has pedigrees that were submitted by users through the Internet. This information is not linked to any other information submitted by others.

What is important about the Pedigree Resource File is that you can get the submitters contact information. If you find a match, click on it and you will see any notes and/or source information. You will also see a list of names in a single database, now click on the number after the submission search, and leave all the fields blank except the submission number. This gives you all the names in that submitter's database. You have the choice of either contacting the submitter or purchasing the CD for further information.

One thing to keep in mind is that not all the information that has been submitted by individuals is accurate. I can give you a good example: a lady submitted my family line years ago before I ever was interested in genealogy. Now, years later, I have discovered the information she submitted is wrong. She has long past on so there is know way to correct the information.

As you will learn in researching your family tree, genealogy is a never-ending job. There is always new information that comes out every day. Come back often to the Family History Library to see what is new and remember to always research any information you find or receive. The original document is your goal.