Tracing family histories is a fun hobby but for some people it becomes a passion. Maybe its because learning about our family helps us understand our place in the world. In the digital age there has never been so much information available to the public. This has resulted in the birth of a new industry devoted to helping us find the old records we need. I’m sure you will have seen the ads on TV. But rather than get lost in data, why not just ask people. Whether that’s family members or local history groups. For example, talk to older relatives. They will know family names and previous addresses. They will also know family stories, which will give you the first clues in your search.
Sam Harvey posted on the Aldridge History Group Facebook page because she needed local information. She lives in South Yorkshire and had found that her family was living in Aldridge in the 1830s. Following a phone call we featured her in our magazines. Hilary Wilkes was also looking for information on her family history. Regarding her grandfather Sgt Thomas Wikes (pictured) who had lived in Walsall. We also featured her story in our January magazines.
How We Help Trace Family Histories
We will be having a regular feature in our printed magazines to help people tracing family histories. So if you would like to tell your story and get some local help, email editor@pioneermagazines.co.uk. Please let us have your phone number and a brief overview of who you are looking to trace. We can also share your Facebook posts.
Top Tips For Tracing Your Family Tree
- Ask Family Members
- There are online tools, census and registers
- Use other people’s research
- Use the free online Births, Marriages & Deaths directories
- Search parish records and visit churchyards
- Ask for information on social media
- Get in touch with Pioneer Magazines & Great Barr Gazette
Below we have listed some websites and social media groups to get you started. We would love to hear from you if we can help you trace your family tree.
Useful Websites/Social Media Groups
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/travel-hobbies/hobbies/trace-your-family-tree/
https://www.historic-uk.com/Family-History/Guide-To-Tracing-Your-Family-Tree/
https://www.family-tree.co.uk/how-to-guides/25-tips-tricks-for-successful-family-history-research/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/familyhistory/get_started/paying_for_research_01.shtml
Walsall Places, People, Pictures and History
Yours locally
