We have a hunger to know where we come from.
Who were our ancestors? Are we related to royalty or pirates? What is my ethnicity? Was I adopted? So many family history questions to be answered.
Genealogy — tracing your family lines of descent — can be a fun and fascinating hobby. This growing fascination with our past generates millions of Google searches daily. There are many Facebook groups dedicated to genealogy and YouTube videos abound focusing on genealogy research.
New technology tools abound but your best bet might be help from folks with similar interests. The demographic of the genealogical community suggests they have a common interest and a strong willingness to share and help others. Loads of courses are available at all levels both in-person and online. There are books galore, blogs, course videos and helpful mentors.
What about those old family photos and postcards? The family bible? Grandpa’s military medals? Old love letters? Grandma’s favourite recipes in her recipe box?
Many of us run into these questions when we're tasked with cleaning out our parents’ homes when they pass. So many items exist around us that can help add colour and life to the world of our ancestors. The genealogy community can help you find some answers.
Always start with what you know! Collect all those family items and talk to living family members now, while it is still possible. This could be the beginning of a new career as a family history detective. You will be uncovering the stories, legends, heroes, and skeletons of your own family.
Join your local genealogical society!
In Calgary, Alberta Family Histories Society is the local genealogy group. Alberta Genealogy Society, based in Edmonton, has branches throughout the province, such as Medicine Hat and Red Deer.
Both organizations offer helpful members, regular meetings with amazing speakers, research support, conferences, workshops, special interest groups and reference libraries. They will help you learn the skills to do research not just in Alberta but across the country and in other areas of the world. If you have a particular ethnic background, you might want to see if there is a group which focuses on your heritage, such as the Germans from Russia Heritage Society (Alberta Chapter) or the Jewish Genealogical Society of Southern Alberta.
If you are researching an early settler, check out the Southern Alberta Pioneers and their Descendants.
Once you get started, you’ll want to share the information you found or to record your own stories.
These groups can help you find ways to do this. Their members will also listen to your discoveries without rolling their eyes. It is a great way to connect with others and keep your mind active. The detective work is exciting and rewarding.
Give it a try!