Getting into genealogy can be a fun adventure, diving into your family’s past and uncovering stories that have been waiting to be told. But with all the twists and turns along the way, it helps to have some basic rules to guide you. Let’s break down the Genealogy Golden Rule and a few other tips to keep your research on track! In our genealogy podcast episode #102, we take a closer look at the Genealogy Golden Rule and other best practices to help you in your quest for family knowledge.
The Golden Rule: Start with Yourself
When embarking on your genealogy journey, the most effective starting point is yourself. Document your immediate family, including parents, siblings, and children. This foundational approach not only keeps your research organized but also provides a clear lineage from which to branch out. By beginning with what you know, you’ll be better equipped to seek out the unknown. This rule applies when you are starting with a specific ancestor as well. Start with what you know.
Document Your Sources
This is a no brainer and something we mention over and over again in our genealogy podcast.. Every piece of information you gather should be accompanied by a source. Whether it’s a birth certificate, census data, or a family story, recording where you found each fact is essential for credibility. This practice helps you and future researchers verify your claims and trace the information back to its origin, preventing misinformation from spreading.Trust us, future generations will thank you!
Don’t Assume
You know what they say, so don’t be one of those people. Genealogy can be filled with assumptions—like assuming two individuals with the same name are the same person or that a family story is completely accurate. Always strive to verify facts with concrete evidence. If you come across information that seems likely but lacks supporting evidence, treat it cautiously. Be diligent in your research, and don’t hesitate to question the validity of your findings.
Watermark Your Photos and Documents
In the digital age, sharing photos and documents has never been easier, but it’s also easier for information to be misattributed or used without permission. If you’re sharing family photos or documents online, consider watermarking them with your name or a family logo. This practice not only gives credit to your work but also helps ensure that your contributions to family history remain linked to you.
Mark Uncertain Facts
You’re not going to have all the answers right away—and that’s totally okay! When you come across something you’re unsure about, mark it clearly. Use notes like “hypothesis” or “need to verify” so you (and anyone else) know that it’s not a done deal yet. This keeps your research honest and helps avoid spreading misinformation.
Pass On Your Work
Genealogy is all about connection, so don’t keep your findings to yourself! Share what you’ve discovered with your family. You could create a family tree, write up a fun narrative about your ancestors, or even host a family reunion to share stories. The more you share, the richer your family history becomes, and who knows what other gems your relatives might add to the mix!
In the End, Genealogy’s Golden Rule is Key
Genealogy is an exciting journey filled with discoveries about where you come from. By starting with yourself, documenting sources, avoiding assumptions, watermarking your materials, marking uncertainties, and sharing your findings, you’ll set yourself up for a successful and enjoyable research experience. Listen to our genealogy podcast Episode #102 for even more details and information.
So grab your favorite beverage, dive in, and happy family hunting!
Cheers!
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