Genealogy 101: Gathering family history information

In recent years, the Internet has made it easier than ever to learn about one's origins. Gaining access to family records is now just a mouse click away.

Collecting family memories
Your journey starts with what's already around you. There are clues everywhere. Here are the first three things you'll want to do:

1. Look at family keepsakes and memorabilia
There is information all around you. Pore over photo albums, old scrapbooks, family bibles, letters, important papers (wills, deeds, etc.), book inscriptions, jewelry, quilts, and even furniture. Some scratched initials and a scrawled date on the bottom of a piece of furniture may just lead to a monumental discovery. Collect everything that seems important -- everything!

2. Record personal memories and knowledge
Start by collecting all the basic information that you already know about your close relatives: full names, dates and places of births, marriages, deaths, and other major family events. Work backward, beginning with your parents, then grandparents, and so on, as far back as you can remember. You can check the facts later.

3. Conduct family interviews
Ask your family members for any information they can remember. If you can't talk to them directly, call or write them. It's smart to prepare questions in advance to help you stay organized and on track. Talk to as many people as possible -- even close friends of the family can be a great source of info.

Any information you can get from family members equals less research on your part. Names and dates are crucial. Spouse names, maiden names, sibling names -- record them all. Include dates, places, and any other details.

Always confirm information. For example, even if you're absolutely sure what year your great-grandmother passed away, why not confirm it in Canadian Birth, Marriage and Death Records. You may discover other information that you don't have, like her parents' names or places of birth. Sometimes, death records even include employment or military history.

When interviewing people, let them ramble. That's when you'll get the best stories. Bring props, photos, anything to trigger memories. Your family will love reminiscing, so don't be bashful -- be respectfully nosy. After you've recorded the memories, share a transcript with the interviewee to verify information. Then share it with everyone in the family -- and jog more memories loose!

Finding previously completed research
Check for research about your family that has already been compiled, including family and local histories, genealogies, articles, and collections of family papers. Also, try to connect with other family members who are researching your lineage.

Join a genealogical society. Collaborating with others makes it easier and more fun, and you can share resources and techniques. Many societies even build research facilities and invite experts to speak.