Family Research

It has always been in the nature of man to learn stories about his parents, grandparents and relatives. However, the possibilities of checking pure oral traditions were usually very limited. In today’s globalized and digitized world, the path to the ancestral roots is much easier. Genealogy research is no longer possible only for the rich and powerful.

• I.) Introduction to genealogical research – Brief introduction to the topic
• II.) Genealogical sources – List of the most important research sources
• III.) The family tree – Research approach of the family tree
• IV.) The pedigree – Research approach of the pedigree
• V.) Hire genealogists – Offers for a special research assignment

Large software and database platforms such as Ancestry and MyHeitage, some of which even advertise their offers with far-reaching TV spots, are responsible for a new boom in genealogical research.

Family trees and pedigree charts are often regarded as synonyms. Admittedly, these are traditionally two opposites. Family research, also known as genealogy in professional circles, always distinguishes the starting point of the research.

A classical tree contains only those persons who are theoretically intended for a pedigree chart or family tree. Siblings, if they are mentioned at all, are portrayed without their spouses. For example, a classic family tree shows only the ancestors of the paternal lineage along with the siblings of the male ancestors. The pedigree chart shows both parents and their parents (parents, grandparents, great-grandparents etc.). Siblings are strictly not pictured here.

More information about family trees and pedigree charts can be found on our subpages:

Private genealogical research often has much more modest goals. Not everyone hopes to connect with a noble family or celebrity. Most amateur researchers simply want to know something about their family. In many cases, there is not even information about grandparents and their siblings. Many people interested in research want to know where they come from and who the people were who significantly influenced their path in life. The stories that come to light often have regional historical value.

Those who are enthusiastic about genealogical research will experience exciting stories. The outcome of research is never predictable. It is not uncommon for a family strand to lead to a distant region. The reasons for this are very varied: emigration, flight, illness, lack of work, etc. It is very difficult to follow these traces and it is similar to detective work. After all, there are often no primary sources such as official registers and church registers, so that the overall picture has to be deduced from a number of indicators.
The large number of English-language genealogy portals and research sources proves that there is a great deal of interest, particularly in the USA, in tracing back the traces of one’s own family. The United States is the prime example of a “country of emigrants,” so many Americans want to trace their roots back to Europe. It is not uncommon for a distant relative to be found on European soil. Another major institution on American territory is the “Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints”, the Mormon religious community. She places family life and family relationships (even after death) at the center of her faith and tries to help people around the world in their search for family members. Based in Utah, this research community has become a key resource for genealogy research.