Who Am I? The Family Tree Explorer

The more you find out about your ancestors, the better you can answer the question ‘Who am I?’ The author of this guide to genealogy has spent a lifetime finding out about his own family, who came to Britain from Germany. He begins with oral history and what can be gleaned from our living relatives, explaining traditions of passing on oral history in the Pacific Islands and among Maori people. There is plenty of practical help on recording family history and how to draw a family tree. The author’s own complicated family tree has a link to the Royal Family by marriage (‘I am Camilla’s sister-in-law’s ex-sister-in-law’s husband’s second cousin twice removed!’). There is also advice on identifying old photos from family albums and using them to create an illustrated family tree. An explanation of social history is the platform for exploring questions to ask grandparents about life at home and at school, about holidays and celebrations. Information is included on surnames and first names, as well as family heirlooms passed down, ranging from medals and tartans, crests and coats of arms. A final chapter gives advice on researching written records such as baptism certificates, parish registers and censuses, plus help with deciphering handwriting. An excellent resource for a class project or an individual wanting to explore their own family history.