Finding Records of Your Ancestors, Part A: Denmark, 1834
to 1900 is the first in a new series of publications that represents a
new direction for the library. The guides simplify the research process to
increase the probability of success. They are designed for those who have
already gathered some information from their home and family, organized what
they have on pedigree and family group forms like those found in How Do
I Start My Family History? and are ready to search public records.
People generally perceive family history research as time consuming,
complex, and difficult. Veteran researchers usually credit someone for personally
helping them a time or two in the beginning. The goal of the new guides, Finding
Records of Your Ancestors, is to take the guesswork out of genealogical
research. Publications coordinator NaDine Timothy explains: "In the past
we have taken an encyclopedia-type approach by listing every single record
that is available. Now we are trying to simplify the process and give users
a specific, proven strategy to use." Timothy adds: "One thing that
has frustrated many family history enthusiasts is the need to master quickly
a whole new set of skills and concepts to be successful. They feel overwhelmed
by what they don't know, and that can stifle their desire to learn more about
their ancestors. The new guides will give them key information to compensate
for that research skill deficit and enable them to have success."
"Finding Records of Your Ancestors" guides are geared
toward people who have little genealogical experience and may not have time
to do extensive research. In an inviting workbook style, "Part A: Denmark"
colorfully outlines the steps and tools needed to find one's Danish ancestors.
Users will learn where to start, how to find and use Danish records, and
what unique elements to look for in the records. The 8.5-by-11-inch booklets
are more visual and user friendly than other family history how-to publications.
"We wanted to take beginners by the hand and walk them
through the research process," says Kay Merkley, instructional designer
for the "Finding Records of Your Ancestors" series. "It's
not an easy process at first, but these guides provide a strategy not available
before on how to go from one record to another. The guides provide expert
advice every step of the way."
The guide for Denmark is divided into two parts. Finding
Records of Your Ancestors, Part A: Denmark, 1834 to 1900 covers the period
from 1834 to 1900. Part B: Denmark, available in 2002, will cover additional
time periods and research strategies. Another planned publication will help
researchers read Danish records.
The guide explains different types of records in Denmark and
instructs the user on when and how to use specific records. A real-life
case study allows readers to see for themselves how the research process
works. Expert search tips, including tips on how to use the Family History
Library catalog, are included. Also included are maps, historical time lines,
and background on Danish naming customs. Beyond outlining a strategy for
getting started, the guide offers instructions on more advanced research,
including addresses and Web sites for more information.
When tested last year with family history novices interested
in Danish research, all test participants commented that the new guide made
the genealogy research process much easier to understand and apply. Class
participant Marilyn Moore said: "I'm excited about this information.
It gives me a solid method to follow as I begin to learn about Danish records."
Additional guides in the Finding Records of Your Ancestors
series will be published in 2002. Research guides are being prepared for the
British Isles, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Mexico,
Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland (for German language records).
Additional guides will follow, including research assistance for African-Americans,
American Indians and Pacific Islanders.
Dick Eastman Online
