How I did it: Started with a small family tree, headed to the town where most of the relatives were buried, brought as much information as I knew with me in a 3 ring binder. Got advice from a couple of websites on what to bring on a genealogy road trip to be successful. That was a huge help and kept us from wasting time. Contacted the cemetery and the churches for info.  Try to get as much info as possible from living relatives. Tried to remember stories I was told as a child. Maintained a sense of humor.

Lessons & tips: Make a list of what you want to accomplish on the trip.Be as organized as possible. Use a checklist available on line for what to bring. Bring a family member or 2 with you. Use other lists available on line to plan your trip & to estimate the cost of the trip and be productive. Bring sneakers! Pack an umbrella.Bring a laptop !!!!!! Use a digital camera for photos of headstones- front and back then record what the headstone says in a journal- just in case.

Resources: www.familytreemagazine.com for lists and general advice.
www.familysearch.org for some family info and blank family tree forms
At the very least read The idiots guide to genealogy to get you started with what you need to know

Dec 30, 2008, 10:30PM PST | 0 comments | 1 cheer