Family Tree Top Tips

Before you start

• Begin by reading all you can about the subject. Search the library catalogue for books at the class numbers 929.1 and 929.3
• Join a local family history society. Go to Info point (local organisations, clubs and societies database) or see the printed version available in all libraries or see the 'Local studies bulletin' held at Bedford Central, Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard libraries.
• Find a class on how to trace your family history at a local college. See You and Your Community (Bedfordshire local information database) and click on 'Education'.
• Talk to your family and try to obtain as much information as possible such as first-hand accounts, memories and stories, especially from older generations. They can often provide you with names, dates and key family events - although you should never take anything at face value, as it will be your job to investigate family myths. It is also important to look through old family correspondence, photos, heirlooms and other material that can find its way into trunks, drawers, attics or cellars. You will be amazed how much information you can extract from these objects to obtain vital clues. Also try to establish where your family is from, as this will play an important role in where to look for relevant records

Your research begins

• The accepted method of research is to start with the known (yourself) and then to work backwards, one step at a time. Decide which branch of your family to research first, your father's or mother's. It is usually easier to trace male family members, as the surname usually stays the same
• The Local and family history A-Z describes sources that are held in Bedfordshire libraries, on the Internet and elsewhere that may help you learn more about your ancestors once settled in England and Wales

Good luck with your search!

• Return to Family history for more information