ObituariesHelp.org
An informative and respected website designed to offer resources for obituaries, funerals and genealogy search
...
When it comes to researching ancestry, free thinking genealogists understand the value of collaborating with others. That old saying "two heads are better than one" is especially applicable when it comes to research. Because of the large volume of ancestry records available worldwide, it is easy to become bogged down in a mass of data. Collaborating with other researchers to find ancestors is a sure-fire way to speed up your genealogical success. The greatest benefit of working with other genealogists is that; not only can it give you that sometimes-necessary boost you might need, but also it assists you to compile your ancestry free from errors.
As a beginner, you might feel that you don’t have much to offer to other researchers, but you do – your family! It is quite common for researchers to come across family tree reports of other genealogy aficionados whose records relate to their own. But we can’t just post our ancestry records online and hope for the best. However, a common obstacle that genealogists face (not only beginners but pros also), is how to contact a complete stranger and begin asking them quite personal questions about their ancestry. Free record databases have increased the likelihood of that happening, so it’s good to know how we can approach a fellow researcher without being too forward or obtrusive.
FAMILY TREE TEMPLATES: Free, professionally designed, high quality family tree templates
SEARCH ONLINE ANCESTORS: Free online ancestry search tips and secrets
It is relatively easy to contact someone via email, but a response isn’t always forthcoming. Emails get lost in spam folders and sometimes people are just sceptical of opening one from somebody that they don’t know. That leaves either forums, where there is a lack of privacy, snail mail, which can take too long, or the TELEPHONE! Cold calling a complete stranger on the phone is especially scary, even people who do it for a living find it difficult. But genealogists are generally a friendly bunch, you’ll find that people who are researching their ancestry, are free from certain hang-ups. There is however, a step-by-step process that professional researchers follow before making that call.
Even if you’re a bit on the shy side, these tips can help you to overcome your timidity. It is quite possible that during your research you’ll come across someone who shares your ancestry. Free yourself first from any fears you may have about contacting them, after all, they may be family! Develop that mind set and you’ll actually feel those barriers breaking down immediately. Once you’ve overcome that fear, you’ll need to:
Before you begin scouring the Internet trying to find someone’s contact information, first check to see if you might already be in contact with one of his or her relatives. If so, they can not only provide you with the person’s number, but perhaps make an introductory call on your behalf. This can smooth the way, and remove some of the anxiety involved. If not, websites like AnyWho or Yahoo People Search may be of help. Failing that, try connecting through FaceBook. This page is a genealogical directory of family names that are being researched by FaceBook members.
FREE ANCESTRY RECORDS: Little known ways to search your ancestry for free.
Another place to get contact information on someone searching your ancestry free is The Guild of One Name Studies, an organization set up for anyone researching a particular surname. It an internationally oriented organization to assist in searching your ancestry for free and many of the members are professional genealogists who are accustomed to being contacted by strangers.
Hopefully this information will help you to research your ancestry, free of any barriers which may have previously impeded you. Happy cold- calling!