Finding Genealogy Classes Near You: Learn with FamilySearch

Finding Genealogy Classes Near You: Learn with FamilySearch

This guide will help you find genealogy classes and learning resources offered by FamilySearch and its partners in your area.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Navigate to FamilySearch.org: Begin by opening your web browser and going to www.familysearch.org.

2. Sign In or Create an Account: If you already have a FamilySearch account, click the Sign In button in the top right corner and enter your username and password. If you don't have an account, click the Free Account button and follow the instructions to create one. This is necessary to access all features.

3. Access the Learning Center: After signing in, hover your mouse over the Help menu at the top of the page. A dropdown menu will appear. Click on Learning Center in the dropdown menu.

4. Explore the Learning Center: You'll land on the Learning Center page. Here, you can browse various genealogy topics and resources. While FamilySearch itself doesn't list *physical* classes in a geographically specific way directly on the Learning Center page, we can use some search strategies.

5. General Topic Search in the Learning Center: In the search bar located at the top of the Learning Center page, type in a specific area of interest. Examples include: "Beginning Genealogy," "Using Census Records," or "DNA for Genealogy." While not geographically limited, it helps you find relevant online resources.

6. Check FamilySearch Wiki: Open a new tab in your browser. Search for "FamilySearch Wiki" in a search engine (Google, DuckDuckGo, etc.) or type familysearch.org/wiki/en/Main_Page directly in your address bar. The Wiki often has pages describing FamilySearch centers or resources that may offer local classes or workshops.

7. Search the FamilySearch Wiki for Specific Locations: Within the FamilySearch Wiki, use the search bar (usually located on the left-hand side). Enter a town, county, or state name along with keywords like "Family History Center", "Genealogy Classes" or "Research Resources". This might point you to a Family History Center near you. For example, search for "Salt Lake City Family History Center classes".

8. Visit a Family History Center Website (If Found): If the Wiki provides a link to a specific Family History Center website, visit that site directly. Many Centers will list their class schedules, upcoming events, and contact information there.

9. Consider Partner Websites: While FamilySearch doesn't directly list local classes, many of its partner organizations do. Check the websites of local genealogical societies or libraries in your area, as they often host or advertise classes that may utilize FamilySearch resources.

10. Check the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Meetinghouse Locator: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouses often host Family History Centers. You can use their meetinghouse locator to find locations near you, then contact those Centers directly to inquire about available classes.

    The locator can usually be found by searching the internet for "Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Meetinghouse Locator".

By following these steps, you'll increase your chances of finding genealogy classes and learning opportunities in your area offered by FamilySearch and its partners. Happy researching!