Genealogy: How To Find Your Ancestors, Revised Edition

Would you like to research your family tree but are not sure where or how to start? Or did you already start on your family history but now find yourself stuck? Help is on its way. Paul Drake, veteran genealogist with more than 45 years experience, teacher and published author, knows what you need. Based on class material, this book will guide you from your first interview through exploring cemeteries, churches and your local library, to discovering the treasures hidden in courthouses and the National Archives. A new chapter about using the Internet has been added to this latest edition. In his own unique style the Tennessee-based author will alert you to the true value of your data, teach you how to weigh your information, and warn you of the pitfalls you may encounter. This large-format book is illustrated with no less than thirty documents from the author's collection which will familiarize you with the kind of documents you are likely to encounter in your own research. (There is a special section on how to read early English which explains the typical flourishes those early scribes were so fond of.) Topping it all off are three appendices and a glossary. Appendix 1 includes a pedigree chart, a family unit chart and the census forms you need to get started. Appendix 2 provides all the information you need to access the National Archives without wasting time. Appendix 3 includes the names and addresses of some of the most popular and respected genealogical societies, periodicals and directories. The glossary explains more than one hundred twenty-five genealogical terms. This the most user-friendly beginner's guide on the market3/4an excellent textbook and a great gift!