There are many resources genealogists use to help make the process of researching ancestors and family history easier. Some of these genealogical resources are available to the public, while others are only accessible to professionals who know how to properly handle them. Yet, it can be interesting for an individual to understand how genealogical information is discovered. It may also be useful for an individual to have a better understanding of where to look if they want to research their ancestors. Continue reading to learn about several different genealogical resources that will help you gain information about your family history.

Government Records

One of the resources that is most often used by genealogists is government records. Government records contain all sorts of important information that is useful in learning about individuals from the past. A census record is a type of government record that is particularly useful to genealogists. Information that could be included in government records includes immigration reports, obituaries, birth certificates, marriage announcements, military records, and death certificates. These records make it possible for genealogists and individuals to understand what the life of an ancestor would be like.

Interviews

Another excellent source of information that genealogists use is oral interviews. Oral interviews include stories told by grandparents, conversations had with aunts and uncles, etc. Oftentimes, genealogists will record interviews and keep them for future generations. This is why it is important for everyone to take a hand in their genealogy. Stories about your ancestors can be recorded as interviews. These interviews are a very important part of the information that genealogists understand about families and historical figures. Without your input, these stories may be forgotten over time, making it much more difficult to understand your family history. So be sure to listen the next time your grandma tells a story about her life.

Pictures

Another resource that genealogists use is pictures. They say a picture says a thousand words, meaning that there are all sorts of information that can be gleaned from family photos. Genealogists use photos to identify individual ancestors as well as to learn more about their lives. By submitting photographs, you are helping others learn about yourself and your ancestors, which could lead to important family discoveries. However, even just taking photographs of yourself and your family members will increase your remembrance and will be useful for your future self and family.

Objects

Objects are another important genealogical resource that genealogists use to help individuals learn about their ancestry. While objects do not always explain everything that was happening for an ancestor, they can certainly help individuals understand what life was like during the period that their ancestor lived. Objects can also carry a lot of sentimental value and can express what a specific family member liked and disliked. What’s more, objects could also have DNA from ancestors on them which could be useful for DNA tests and to learn how healthy an ancestor was. Books, jewelry, cards, letters, scrapbooks, clothing, and other memorabilia are useful for genealogical research.

Looking For Quality Genealogical Resources?

While there is a lot to be said for doing personal research about family history, there is no better way to delve into genealogy than with professional genealogists. Not only can you gain access to the resources that genealogists possess but you will also be able to learn about things faster. Genealogists know how to research things more quickly and efficiently, due to doing it every day. We at Heritage Consulting offer high-quality genealogical research services that can help you more effectively study your ancestors. For more information or to schedule a consultation, feel free to reach out to us today.