When you start researching your family history, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the idea of writing your ancestors’ stories. “I’m not a writer,” you might think. “How could … You don’t need to be a writer to tell their storyRead more
How to start
Family history storytelling with photos, letters and even recipes
Family history is about more than just names and dates. It is about understanding the lives of the people who came before you, their experiences, traditions, and the small details … Family history storytelling with photos, letters and even recipesRead more
Help! My DNA matches don’t have trees
Getting your DNA results is exciting. You log in, see a list of people who share DNA with you, and can’t wait to explore your connections. But then you notice … Help! My DNA matches don’t have treesRead more
I took a DNA test… now what?
Your results have arrived. There’s a colourful map, a list of matches, and a lot of percentages. It’s exciting but also a bit overwhelming. Here’s how to make sense of … I took a DNA test… now what?Read more
How to organise your genealogy documents
If you have been researching your family history for even a short time, you will know how quickly the documents pile up. Birth certificates, census printouts, notes from websites, and … How to organise your genealogy documentsRead more
Family history interviews: questions and tips to help your storytelling and research
One of the easiest and most meaningful ways to start your family history journey is to simply have a conversation. Talking to a parent, grandparent, or older relative can uncover … Family history interviews: questions and tips to help your storytelling and researchRead more
A guide to Scottish BMD records
If you’re tracing your Scottish ancestors, one of the best places to start is with BMD records, that’s short for births, marriages, and deaths. These official records offer the key … A guide to Scottish BMD recordsRead more
What’s in a Scottish parish record? A beginner’s guide
If you’re researching Scottish ancestors from before 1855, parish records will likely be your best (and sometimes only) source of information. But what exactly is a parish record, and what … What’s in a Scottish parish record? A beginner’s guideRead more
What is a ‘brick wall’ in genealogy and how to break through it
Every family history researcher hits a frustrating point when a record, a person, or an entire branch of the family tree seems to vanish without explanation. You’ve checked the census, … What is a ‘brick wall’ in genealogy and how to break through itRead more
Beginner’s genealogy glossary: 25 terms you should know
When you’re just getting started with family history, it can feel like you’re learning a whole new language. Census returns, BMD indexes, parish records – it’s easy to get overwhelmed. … Beginner’s genealogy glossary: 25 terms you should knowRead more