Searching

Once a basic Pedigree Chart is filled in with what information is known contacting relatives may help in filling in gaps or adding the one bit of information that will help you find what your looking for. Showing them the pedigree chart will assist them in visualizing and may tweak memories; you may be surprised at what they know. In my personal experience, these visits are conducive to recall. It can be so much fun yet overwhelming and emotional, it is best to limit each visit too less than an hour. Remember to ask specific questions and record any anecdotes, stories, songs, sayings or other items that are mentioned. Relatives may remember key pieces of information like where the individuals were married, settled or the cemetery where individual or whole families are buried that will move you in the right direction or send you on a different path.