Why do Mormons do Genealogy?

Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, usually referred to as Mormons, place great emphasis on genealogical research. This is because their Church doctrine states that "saving ordinances" (including baptism, confirmation, endowment, and sealing-marriage) must be made available to every individual who has ever lived. To make these ordinances available to people who did not have the opportunity while ... more >>>

How do I get started doing my genealogy?

First search your entire home, attic, basement, closets, trunks, shoeboxes and photo albums for clues. Then, talk to your whole family – Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Grandparents – to learn everything that they know. Only then, can you begin your research.

Now this is sound genealogical advice and in the world of search-based research, can obviously be quite helpful. The more you know, the more likely you are to get results. But it is a very tiny percentage of people who are willing to start with that level of effort. In an attempt to make family history available to the mainstream, we’ve provided for another (and so far globally more successful) method.

First, start with what you know. Create a tree with the things you remember. Don’t worry if there are holes – or you don’t have exact dates or locations. This will help give you a foundation to determine what you want to learn.

Then, invite your family to contribute what they know. Invite your Aunts, Uncles and Cousins to add to your tree online, fill in dates, tell stories, upload photos.

Then, come to Free Genealogy Online to fill in the gaps.