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Discover your past ... Discover yourself.gif)
Every family has a story to tell. Whether
your ancestors
arrived on the Mayflower, came through Ellis Island or only
recently made America their home, all have played a part in
the great American experience. It is not only natural to
wonder about those brave souls who left familiar
surroundings for an unknown country, it is essential to our
understanding of ourselves and our place in history.
Getting
Started
Genealogy, or
Family History, is the study and preservation of our own
past. Family historians seek to know and understand their
ancestors by preserving and studying the traces they have
left behind. Taking those first
steps is easy--begin with your immediate family: collect names, dates and places
of births, marriages, deaths and burials; then work your way
backwards one generation at a time. Reach out to other
family members, collect their memories and mementos: newspaper clippings,
wedding and funeral announcements, school souvenirs,
photographs, etc.
Once you've compiled as much information as possible, your quest must go
further afield to census, probate, military, property and
other records. There is a wealth of information
available, waiting to be found, that will enrich your
understanding of your ancestors and give substance to those
shadowy figures of your past.
Reaching
Goals
Whether you
are just beginning your family history journey, or you've
been researching for awhile and have reached a "brick wall,"
professional assistance can enhance your
experience and help you achieve your goals. Prairie Roots Research is dedicated to
genealogical and historical research, specializing in Iowa
and Midwestern resources. We can help with your project
whether it be large or small-- from locating a single
obituary to compiling a multi-generational family history
you'll treasure for years to come.
Visit the
Services page to learn
more about how Prairie Roots Research can help with your
family history project. The
Research page offers tips
for organizing your research project.
Contact
us
to discuss your unique project requirements.
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