Latter-day Saints Genealogy: Finding Your Ancestors on FamilySearch

Latter-day Saints Genealogy: Finding Your Ancestors on FamilySearch

This guide provides Latter-day Saints with a step-by-step approach to finding their ancestors using the free resources available on FamilySearch.org.

Getting Started: Accessing FamilySearch

1. Visit FamilySearch.org: Open your web browser and go to FamilySearch.org.
2. Sign In: Click the "Sign In" button in the upper-right corner. If you are a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, use your Church account username and password. If you don't have an account, you can create one for free.

Navigating the Family Tree

1. Access the Family Tree: Once you are logged in, click on the "Family Tree" tab at the top of the page. Select "Tree" from the dropdown menu.
2. Navigate to Yourself: The tree should initially show you. If it doesn't, you may need to add yourself as the starting point. Click the "+" (plus) icon in the appropriate spot and add your information.
3. Explore Your Direct Line: Start exploring your direct line ancestors by clicking on their names. This will expand their information. You can then click on their parents to continue tracing back your lineage.

Searching for Records

1. Go to the Search Tab: Click on the "Search" tab at the top of the page.
2. Choose a Record Type: Select the type of record you want to search for (e.g., "Records," "Images," "Genealogies," "Catalog"). The "Records" option is generally the most useful for finding birth, marriage, and death records.
3. Enter Search Criteria: Fill in the search fields with as much information as you know about your ancestor. Include their name, birth date, birth place, parents' names, and other relevant details. Be as specific as possible, but also consider using wildcards (*) to broaden your search.
4. Refine Your Results: After submitting your search, review the results carefully. Use the filters on the left side of the screen to narrow down your results based on record type, location, date range, and other criteria.
5. View Record Details: Click on a record in the search results to view its details. Pay attention to the source information to determine the reliability of the record.
6. Attach Records to Your Tree: If you find a record that matches your ancestor, click the "Attach to Family Tree" button. You'll be prompted to review the information and connect the record to the appropriate person in your family tree.

Using Hints

1. Check for Hints: FamilySearch often provides "hints" that suggest potential records or family members for individuals in your tree. Look for the blue icons (Record Hints) or the temple icons (Ordinance Ready) next to the names on your family tree.
2. Review the Hints: Click on a hint to view the suggested record or family member. Evaluate the information carefully to determine if it is a match.
3. Accept or Reject Hints: If the hint is accurate, accept it to attach the record to your ancestor's profile. If the hint is not a match, reject it to remove it from your list of suggestions.

Collaboration and Research Wiki

1. Explore the Research Wiki: FamilySearch has a vast Research Wiki that provides valuable information about genealogical research in specific locations. You can access it by going to the "Search" tab and clicking on "Wiki".
2. Utilize Collaboration: Take advantage of the collaboration features within FamilySearch to connect with other researchers who may have information about your family line. You can contact users who have contributed to your ancestors' profiles or participate in forums and groups related to your family history interests.

By following these steps, you can effectively use FamilySearch to discover your ancestors and build your family tree.