"And after they had given thanks unto the God of Israel, my father Lehi, took the records which were engraven upon the plates of brass, and he did search them from the beginning. . . .
And thus my father, Lehi, did discover the genealogy his fathers. I Nephi Ch. S, vs. 10 & 16"

Family History How To's. . .
1. "I'm just getting started in Family History"

It may take time, but you are starting a wonderful, meaningful adventure that will bring you much satisfaction and joy in the years to come - and into the eternities! Try these steps to get started:

1. Fill out a pedigree chart to see what you know and what you need to learn.

2. Check with family members to see if anyone has started doing it and try to get their help in filling out your chart..

3. Obtain folders, file jackets, and/or notebooks and supplies to organize what you find. Some people start a file for each couple on their pedigree chart.

4. Start gathering certificates, newspaper clippings, obituaries, keepsake photos, church certificates, wedding announcements, legal documents, etc., and place these in your filing system.

5. Input your pedigree information using a computer management program such as Personal Ancestral File (Available at FHQ). It will allow you to print out an assortment of charts to help you know what you have and what you need to find.

6. If you have a great deal of missing information, get back in touch with relatives. Show them what you have found, and see if they have any clues on where to look or who to check with to find what you need. Ask the older relatives about their parents and grandparents. These people are your family's "living treasures. "

7. Visit the FHC and use the computer databases and other research tools and books to see if you can locate more information.

Ancestral File 1881 British Census
U.S. Social Security Index U.S. Accelerated Census, 1850-1890
U.S. Military Index Polynesian Microfilms
Scottish Recoirds Hawaiian census films and indexes
Family History Library Catalog Hawaiian Delayed Births
LDS OPTIONS: Ordinance Index Hawaiian/Polynesian Family Group Record Books
Australian Vital Records Hawaiian Pedigreee Chart Books
North America Vital Records U.S. research guides, by state
British Vital Records International research guides

8. Check the Internet to see if you can find out more information about your family.

9. Submit names for temple work in TempleReady who have enough information. This may be done only at the FHC. Each name submitted is checked in the church's ordinance database to see if work has already been done for your ancestor.
How To's StepTwo
Sample Documents
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