Brenda Franklin

If you’ve ever looked at a genealogy checklist and thought… “Okay… but what do all of these actually mean?” You are not alone. This guide walks you through the most common genealogy records in a simple, friendly way—so you know what to look for, why it matters, and when to use it.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your genealogy research, you’re not alone. We all reach that point—that one ancestor where the trail just… stops. No matter how hard you dig, the records aren’t there, and frustration starts creeping in. Instead of staying stuck, I’ve found a method that keeps me moving forward—and it turns into a really meaningful little genealogy book along the way. Let me walk you through it. Start Where the Trail Ends When I reach an ancestor I can’t trace any further back, I...

Online newspapers are a treasure trove for genealogy, filled with stories, names, and everyday moments from the past. But no single website holds everything. Sometimes the best discoveries come from local libraries, state archives, or even a phone call for help. If you hit a dead end, take a step back, widen your search, and enjoy the hunt—your family’s story is worth it.