Check out these Free Genealogy Resources!

Check out these Free Genealogy Resources!

There are several free genealogy resources that you can take advantage of. Each has its own focus. You might be able to find what you are searching for without having to spend money. Here are a few free genealogy resources that you should check out.

Ancestry.com Library Edition


You probably already know that Ancestry.com offers people a free trial. That trial period allows you to access their website from your home computer. When the trial is over, you will be expected to pay for a subscription (if you want to continue to have access).

If you can’t afford that subscription right now, you may want to visit your local library. Ancestry.com has a Library Edition. The purpose of it is to enable people to come to the library, access Ancestry.com, and do their genealogy research. Ask your librarian for further details.

FamilySearch


FamilySearch is the genealogy website that is a service of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Genealogists (of all faiths, or of no faith) can use FamilySearch for free. You can use it to access records, create a family tree, upload family photos, and more. They have a blog that is frequently updated with more information relating to genealogy or the FamilySearch website.

MyHeritage


MyHeritage is free to use. It offers access to records, a place to put your family tree, and a way to connect with other family members who use the service. There is a mobile app that you can download for free. Use it to access MyHeritage when you are out and about.

They are partnered with Family Tree DNA. You can purchase a DNA kit that will uncover your paternal line, maternal line, or both. (The DNA tests are not free. They range in price between about $100.00 to around $300.00)

Find A Grave

Find A Grave is an excellent resource for genealogists who are trying to locate the gravesite of their ancestors. The entire website can be accessed for free. You can search through their 109 million grave records. Search for a particular cemetery, or locate burial records. Find A Grave also offers virtual memorials where you can leave flowers or a note about a loved one.

Google Earth


You can download Google Earth, on any device, for free. (They also have Google Earth Pro, which is not offered for free). Genealogists can use Google Earth to get a “birds eye view” (so to speak) of any location on Earth. Use it to discover what the places where your ancestors lived looks like today. You can plot points of interest on a map. It gives you a unique view about where your ancestors lived.

Image by 419(K) 2013 on Flickr.

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