FamilySearch is a genealogy organization operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It provides a vast collection of genealogical and historical records that are accessible to anyone around the world. The organization is committed to helping individuals connect with their ancestors, discover their family history, and build their family trees.
History of FamilySearch
FamilySearch has a long history, dating back to 1894, when the Genealogical Society of Utah was founded. Over the years, the organization has amassed a vast collection of genealogical records and has become a leading resource for individuals interested in researching their family history. In recent years, FamilySearch has shifted its focus to providing free, online access to its records and resources, making it easier than ever for people to explore their family history.
Features of FamilySearch
One of the main features of FamilySearch is its online database of historical records. The organization provides access to millions of records from around the world, including census records, birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, military records, and more. Users can search for records by name, location, date, and other criteria, and can often view digital copies of original records online. In addition to its historical records database, FamilySearch also offers a range of other resources to help individuals with their genealogical research. These include online tutorials and research guides, access to historical maps and other documents, and a variety of tools for building and organizing family trees.
Benefits Of Family Search
One of the main benefits of using FamilySearch is the sheer volume of records and resources available. With millions of records from around the world, the organization is one of the most comprehensive genealogy websites available. Additionally, many of the records on FamilySearch are free to access, making it an excellent resource for individuals who may not have the financial means to access other genealogy websites.
Another benefit of FamilySearch is its commitment to preserving and sharing historical records. The organization is constantly digitizing and indexing new records, making them more accessible to researchers around the world. Additionally, FamilySearch is a nonprofit organization, which means that its focus is on serving the needs of its users rather than generating profits.
To search historical records in FamilySearch, follow these steps:
- Go to the FamilySearch website (www.familysearch.org) and create a free account.
- Once logged in, click on the “Search” tab in the top menu bar.
- In the search bar, enter the name of the person you are researching and any additional information you have, such as birth or death dates or locations.
- You can also use the “Filters” option to narrow down your search by location, record type, or other criteria.
- Click “Search” to see the results of your search.
- Browse through the search results to find relevant records, such as census records, birth certificates, marriage licenses, and more.
- Click on a record to view more information about it, including any images or transcriptions available.
- If you find a record that matches the person you are researching, you can save it to your account or add it to your family tree.
Keep in mind that not all historical records are available online, and some may require a subscription or a visit to a physical archives or library. However, FamilySearch is one of the largest and most comprehensive genealogy websites available, with millions of records from around the world.
Conclusion
FamilySearch is an excellent resource for individual interest in exploring their family history. With its vast collection of historical records, online resources, and commitment to preserving and sharing genealogical data, the organization is a valuable tool for anyone looking to learn more about their ancestors and build their family tree.