Family Research Class Outline

The following is the outline I use when teaching basic genealogy techniques. I have taught genealogy outside the SCA, and I taught Genealogy for SCAdians at the Pennsic War in 2011 and 2012, and at Æthelmearc War Practice in 2012.

1. Why conduct Family Research?
   a. Family cultural ties/roots
   b. Resolve family legends/controversies
   c. Create a family legacy or heirloom
   d. Research family medical history
2. Time is of the essence, start now.
3. Basic information gathering
   a. Biographical family information
   b. Stories and legends
   c. Notes, tape recording, mail correspondence/questionnaires
4. Charts, Documents and how to use them
   a. Family Group Chart
   b. Family Tree
   c. Ahnentafel
   d. Census Forms, deciphering documents
5. Available Resources
   a. Libraries and Court Records, Cemeteries
   b. The Internet and its various sites, esp. Ancestry.com
   c. Family Research Center (Church of Latter Day Saints –LDS)
   d. Programs such as Family Tree Maker
6. Searching tips, examples on Ancestry.com
7. Pitfalls of Internet Research
8. Conclusion