The FamilySearch Internet Genealogical Service

The FamilySearch Internet Genealogy Service of the Church of the Latter-Day Saints was launched in May of 1999. Genealogists flooded to the site. Since that time it has become easier to access.

In June of 1999 Myra Vanderpool Gormley, C.G. wrote an excellent introductory article about the site, along with some cautionary tips. This is a good place to start, before you move on to your search in this database.

With those warnings in mind, you can begin your search at http://familysearch.org/ There are three main search engines- Ancestor, Keyword, and Custom Search. Each one has unique features that are worth exploring. You access them by clicking on the tabs on the main page, above the search engine.

The main page opens with the Ancestor Search engine. Before entering your ancestor's name take a minute to read their "Tips on how to search for your ancestor" (the link is found above the search engine field). They have written a short, concise guide worth reading.

Start by entering the name of one of your ancestors, if it is a common name, add some restriction, such as location or date. If you still have too many hits, narrow it down further.

It will bring up hits in four databases. The Ancestral File contains 35 million names organized into lineage linked and pedigrees charts and family group sheets. Next, the International Genealogical Index (IGI) is a collection of names and records extracted from government and church sources. Then, there is the Pedigree Resource File This is a database of records submitted by individuals through the FamilySearch Internet Genealogy Service. Finally, it may bring up web sites.

The next search is Keyword search. This is helpful when you are looking for a family name, instead of an individual. This will also link you to general topics, such as passenger lists. The databases that it searches are web pages and the incredibly informative Family History SourceGuide. If you need help learning more about a general topic, such as finding immigration records, this guide is very helpful.

Finally, there is the Custom Search, which allows you to search in a single database, such as the IGI. On this page you will find the Family History Library Catalog, which gives you the call numbers of resources available at the Salt Lake Family History Library. With these call numbers, go to your local Family History Center, where they can order them for you to look over. An excellent way to prepare for your visit to a Family History Center.

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