Family members are often your best source of information when you're starting your family history journey. They may know names, dates, places, stories, and family traditions that have never been written down anywhere else.

Before you dive into records and databases, take some time to talk with parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and other relatives. You might be surprised by what they remember.

Why Start with Family?

Family members are often your most valuable resource when beginning your family history journey. They can provide information that may never appear in official records, including family stories, traditions, nicknames, and alternate spellings of names. Conversations with relatives can also reveal important places connected to your ancestors, helping guide future research. In addition, family members may have photographs, letters, certificates, heirlooms, and other treasures that can offer unique insights into your family's past and help preserve memories for future generations.

Helpful Questions to Ask

Why Start with Family

• What were the full names of parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents?
• Did anyone use nicknames?
• Were there any previous marriages?
• Are there relatives we have lost touch with?

Important Dates

• When and where were family members born?
• When did they marry?
• When did they pass away?
• Are there birthdays or anniversaries that the family still celebrates?

Places and Migrations

• Where did the family live?
• Did anyone immigrate from another country?
• Why did they move?
• Are there family homes, farms, or communities that are important to our history?

Family Stories

• What stories were passed down through the generations?
• Did anyone serve in the military?
• Were there unusual occupations, adventures, or achievements?
• Are there family traditions that have continued over time?

Photographs and Documents

• Does anyone have old photographs?
• Are there family Bibles, letters, diaries, certificates, or scrapbooks?
• Can the people in old photos be identified?
• Does anyone have documents that could be scanned and preserved?

Record What You Learn

As you gather information, make notes about:

• Who provided the information.
• When the conversation took place.
• Whether the information is a memory, family story, or supported by records.
• Any follow-up questions that arise.
• Keeping track of your sources now will save time later.

  Skeleton Key Tip

Don't just collect answers—collect stories.

Names and dates help build a family tree, but stories bring your ancestors to life. Ask relatives about favourite memories, family traditions, funny incidents, and everyday life. These details are often the first things lost over time and can become the most treasured parts of your family history.