Best Free Genealogy and Family History Websites

On these genealogy and family history websites, you can search databases of ancestor names and digitized records—and it’s all free.

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Researching Unusual Last Names for Genealogy

An unusual surname is a valuable tool for a genealogist. Discover six strategies to use oddball names in your tree to your greatest advantage.

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25 Best Genealogy Websites for Beginners

Hit the online road with this travel guide of starter tips and websites guaranteed to rev up your genealogy search.

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What Is a Second Cousin? Understanding Cousin Relationship Terms

How, exactly, are you related to the child of your great-great-grandmother’s son? We’ll explain the steps to calculating cousinhood!

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Melungeons: Are You Part of “The Lost Tribe Of Appalachia”?

The mixed-race Melungeon people from Appalachia can be tough for descendants to trace. Learn some origin theories and tips for starting your research.

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Best Free DNA and Genetic Genealogy Websites

You had your DNA tested, but now what’s next? Solve genealogy mysteries with these indispensable, free online tools to analyze your DNA test results.

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How to Refer to Aunts and Uncles: Grand, Not Great

Great-uncle, or grand-uncle? Here’s one perspective on the avuncular controversy.

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17 Fantastic Genealogy and Family Tree Apps to Download Now

Swipe away with the most useful genealogy and family tree apps that are right in the palm of your hand, and take your research on the go.

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Common Surnames: Strategies for the Frustrated Researcher

Ancestors with common surnames can throw even experienced genealogists off track. Use these strategies to research the most common last names.

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Interview Questions and Prompts for Family History Interviews

Senior family members are often the best genealogy resource. Here are family history interview questions to ask to discover more about generations past.

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3 Family History Book Ideas and How to Create Them

If you’re looking for the perfect gift, skip the shops and get out your family records. Share your glad tidings with these DIY family history book projects.

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5 Clues You May Have Native American Ancestry

If you suspect you may have Native American roots based on family stories, here are five tips that may help you prove your claim.

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Genealogy Websites Comparison: Ancestry.com, FamilySearch, Findmypast and MyHeritage

Ancestry or MyHeritage? FamilySearch or Findmypast? Our expert compares the records, family trees and DNA tests of the “Big Four” genealogy websites.

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How to Determine Relationships with Shared DNA Matches

DNA testing has opened up new doors for researchers hoping to find their birth parents. Learn how to use data in your DNA results to figure out relationships.

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Online Tree or Genealogy Software? Deciding Where to Keep Your Data

Deciding where you want to store your family tree, whether online or via software, can be a tough choice. Here, we’ll provide you with the tools to determine which online tree or family history software is best for you!

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Best Resolutions for Scanned Photos and Documents

Take the mystery out of the best size for scanned documents. Here’s a quick dpi resolution guide for family photos and other genealogy records.

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How to Print a Family Tree Poster to Enjoy and Share

Sometimes it’s a good thing when your roots are showing! We’ve rounded up the tools available to help you create a printed family tree poster to share.

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11 Must-See Genealogy TV Shows That Will Inspire You

Genealogy TV shows offer tips and inspiration for discovering family history. Here are 11 must-watch inspiring and informative family history programs.

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What is Prussia? Understanding Prussian History

You have Prussian ancestry, but can’t find Prussia on modern maps. Dive into this disappearing state with this overview of Prussian history.

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13 Websites for Finding Old Family Photos

Search these 13 sites for pictures of your ancestors and the places they lived. Plus, some tips on copyright to consider.

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Understanding Translation vs. Transliteration

What’s the difference between translation and transliteration? Find out here, and why it’s handy for a genealogist to understand.

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6 Genealogy Jobs That Turn Your Family History Skills into a Career

These six genealogy “dream jobs” take your love of research and turn it in to a profession.

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Gravestone Symbols and Their Hidden Meanings

Gravestone symbols can contain clues about your ancestor’s life and death. Discover the meaning behind common (and several uncommon!) gravestone symbols.

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An Irish Map of Counties for Plotting Your Irish Roots

If you have Irish roots, you’ve probably at least heard of the counties in Ireland. Consult this map of Ireland and its counties to figure out which your ancestor lived in.

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10 Websites for Polish Genealogy Research

Take your family history back to Poland with these 10 free Polish genealogy websites, perfect for learning Polish history and finding your ancestor’s records.

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The Best Ancestry.com Tips and Tricks

Not sure where to start on Ancestry.com? Follow these research tips and tricks to get on the right track.

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How to Create A Beautiful Family History Website

It’s easy and inexpensive to set up a family history website that will put you in charge of your clan’s online dream home.

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FamilySearch’s Compare-a-Face Family History Activity

Compare-a-Face is a fun new FamilySearch website feature that uses photos to decide which relatives you most resemble. How well does it work? We try out Compare-a-Face and give you tips for best results.

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Transferring DNA Results from One Company to Another

Transferring your DNA results means you can take them from one company to another. Here’s why and how to take advantage of this research technique.

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Ways to Use Ancestry.com for Free with No Subscription

Here are seven techniques you can use to research for free on Ancestry.com, no subscription required!

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22 Online Historical Photo Databases

Step into your ancestors’ world with the historical photos in these 22 free online archives.

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10 Ideas for How to Organize a Family Reunion with Success

Looking for ideas for planning family reunion? Follow these 10 steps to a fun reunion for the whole family.

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Why Is July an Unlucky Month for Weddings? (And Other Wedding Traditions)

Weddings are highly superstitious events. But have you ever heard that it’s bad luck to get married in July? Learn why and the history of other wedding traditions.

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Was Your Ancestor a “White Russian”?

Our expert explains the meaning of “White Russian” (the genealogy kind) and shares research tips for Russian roots.

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