Genealogy - Indianapolis

Understanding Genealogy 

Genealogy is the study of family history. Whether you're curious about your ancestors, working on a family tree, or verifying heritage, genealogy research can help you deepen your understanding of the past. This guide will help you begin your journey using reliable sources and proven methods.

Genealogy Research Basics

1. Start with yourself. Document your full name, place of birth and birthdate. 
2. Record what you know about close relatives such as parents, grandparents, and siblings. 
3. When gathering information focus on names, dates, places, and relationships. Keep a log of important information as you collect it. 
4. Verify everything. Family stories are wonderful starting points for research, but it is always important to back up stories with official records. 

Helpful Tools & Forms For Getting Started

National Archives Genealogy Worksheet

Family Group Sheet for Genealogists

American Ancestors- Research Log

Begin Gathering Family Information

1. Start by interviewing relatives. Begin with older family members. Record their stories, memories, and family knowledge.  
2. Look for personal documents: 
   • Birth, marriage, and death certificates
   • Family Bibles or journals
   • Obituaries and funeral programs
   • Photo albums with names and dates
3. Digitize what you can. Scanning and organizing files helps preserve them and makes sharing information about your findings easier. 

Explore Online Resources

Start with accessible, free tools:

FamilySearch (free with account)

Find A Grave (Free cemetery records & memorials)

MyHeritage (Paid Access, Free at some Libraries)

Ancestry.com (free at State library)

or visit 

Indiana State Library Genealogy Division 

Indianapolis Public Library's Genealogy Resources Page 

Indiana Archives & Records Administration (IARA) 

Recording & Organizing Your Research

1. Always cite your sources and use consistent formatting.

2. Organize the information you've collected:

• Create clear folder structures
• Name files with dates and people (e.g., "Smith_John_BirthCert_1902.pdf")

Consider if genealogy software is needed for your research: Explore options like RootsMagic, Family Tree Maker, or online services like MyHeritage.

Asking the Right Questions: Family Interviews

When gathering information from family members asking the right questions can make all the difference. Consider asking some of the sample questions below:

1. What is your full name, and have you had other names (maiden, nicknames)?

2. When and where were you born?

3. Who were your parents and grandparents? What do you remember about them?

4. Are there any family traditions, legends, or stories passed down?

5. Do you have old family photos, documents, or heirlooms?

Research-Focused Questions

Use these questions to guide deeper research:

1. Where did my ancestors live? (Search census records, city directories, land deeds)
2. What occupations did they have? (Check city directories, business listings, military records)
3. Did they immigrate? (Use passenger lists, naturalization records, Ellis Island databases)
4. Were they involved in historical events? (Look for military service, news articles, local histories)

Next Steps After Finding Information

How do I verify new information? Use primary sources (official records) to confirm information or family stories. 

Where can I search for more detailed records?

1. County courthouses for probate and land records
2. Church archives for baptisms, marriages, burials
3. Local historical societies

When should I consult a professional genealogist?

1. For difficult “brick wall” cases
2. To access specialized records
3. For DNA test analysis