This accessible, well-organised, easy-to-use beginners' guide to the world of
family history is essential reading for anyone who wants to find their way in
this fascinating subject.
In a series of short, practical chapters Simon Fowler takes readers through
all the first steps that will reveal the lives of their ancestors and the world
they lived in.
He looks at every aspect of research, from finding family papers and
interviewing relatives, through exploring websites, archives, newspapers and
directories, to all the other sources that can throw light into the past. In a
clear, straightforward way he explains how vital records of births, marriages
and deaths can be used as the starting point in a sequence of eye-opening family
detective work.
This introduction which is founded on a career of genealogical research and
writing, is an indispensable guide for anyone entering the field.
Please note, this is an English published book so references to places and
records relate to those in England.
Contents:
Acknowledgements
Preface
1. Starting at Home
2. Finding Sources Online
3. Using Archives and Libraries
4. Records of Births, Marriages and Deaths
5. The Census
6. Wills
7. Military Records before 1914
8. Military Records for the Two World Wars
9. Other Sources
10. Printed Sources
11. Scotland and Ireland
Appendix 1. First Information About an Individual
Appendix 2. Further Reading
Appendix 3. Useful Addresses
Appendix 4. How to Read a Document
Appendix 5. Drawing up a Family Tree
Appendix 6. Some Problems Solved
Appendix 7. Researching the Rich
Appendix 8. Society of Genealogists
Appendix 9. Surnames
Index
