A Cracking Adventure!

This is where things get really interesting!  Before you can even think about saving your family history, you've got to roll up your sleeves and have a proper go at finding it, and let me tell you, it can feel like you've stepped straight into your own personal whodunnit!  You start with those little snippets you already have about family who've passed, and then you try to piece the whole thing together.

Your first port of call is usually your living family.  They're like walking history books (well, my mum is for sure!), full of stories, old documents and photos.  Don't be shy about asking loads of questions – even the smallest details can be a crucial clue.  These talks will give you your initial leads, but remember to record your conversations, or take copious notes!! 

Then comes the fun bit – having a good rummage through the historical records.  This might mean visiting local archives or libraries, or spending hours online searching old documents.  Key things to look for include BMD (birth, marriage and death) records, old parish registers and minutes, census lists, military records, obituaries, wills and probates, land records, and even newspaper articles or old letters.  Check all the information on the documents.  They often contain unexpected information to give you a new lead or confirm existing information.

It's like sifting through clues, and every little bit can lead you to the next piece.  You might find out your great-great-grandad was a blacksmith, or your family lived somewhere unexpected.  And it’s addictive!  Sometimes it's easy, and sometimes you hit a brick wall.   But that moment when you finally crack it and find a missing piece?  Makes it all worth every minute.

It's not just about facts and dates; it's about connecting with your ancestors on a human level, understanding their lives, and appreciating the journey that led to you.

What mysteries will you uncover in your family's past?