Home Studies Get You Started

How does one learn to become a genealogist? This is a frequent question I receive from readers.

Most of us stumble into genealogical research, learning techniques in bits and pieces from others or at conferences and workshops, and by studying “how-to” books. There is an easier way to learn--and to learn it properly, and that is by taking the National Genealogical Society’s home study course.

Since 1981, the education division of the National Genealogical Society has offered a comprehensive course which provides an introduction to each of the major groups of records used in American genealogical research. This course also includes instruction in basic record-keeping practices and the interpretation and evaluation of evidence.

Among the subjects covered in the course are: family records, census records, vital records, probate records, land and tax records, military records, immigration records and church and cemetery records.

You can study at home at your own pace while you learn how to find the records you need, how to search systematically, how to document each item, how to evaluate genealogical evidence and how to maintain orderly family records.

For information, write to: National Genealogical Society, Education Division, 4527 17th St. N., Arlington, Va. 22207.

Some recent publications in the field of genealogy include:

* “Mother Cumberland: Tracing Your Ancestors in South-Central Pennsylvania,” by Raymond M. Bell, Hearthside Press, Potomac Square MY, 8405-H Richmond Highway, Alexandria, Va. 22309 ($11.95 postpaid).

* “Name Index to the Session Acts of the Mississippi Territory,” by Carroll Ainsworth McElligott, Carroll Ainsworth Enterprises, P.O. Box 188, Harleyville, S.C. 29448 ($8.50 postpaid).

* “Abstract of Graves of Revolutionary Patriots,” by Patricia Law Hatcher (in four volumes), Pioneer Heritage Press, 8040 Claremont Dr., Dallas, Tex. 75228.