 Exploring FamilySearch’s updated Full-Text Records Search FamilySearch has officially moved one of its most exciting experimental features out of the Labs section and into its main platform! As of August 28, 2025, the Full-Text Records Search is now available directly under the “Search” dropdown on FamilySearch—no sign-up for Labs required. This new tool, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), allows researchers to search the actual text within digitized historical records. Until now, many of these records have never been searchable beyond basic index entries, meaning important details could easily be overlooked. With Full-Text Records Search, FamilySearch has opened the door to uncovering hidden names, places, and details buried in handwritten or printed documents. What’s New? When FamilySearch first launched this feature in the Labs earlier this year, only two record groups were available for testing—U.S. Land and Probate Records and Mexico Notary Records. Now that the tool has been officially released, the coverage has expanded significantly. Instead of just a handful of collections, dozens of record collections are now searchable, with more being added over time. This means researchers can now run searches across a much broader range of records and potentially uncover new information that traditional indexing might have missed. 👉 Want to see how this feature looked when it first launched in FamilySearch Labs? Check out my original post from March 2024 here. How It Works Using the Full-Text Records Search is simple:
Even better, each result comes with:
 FamilySearch Full-Text Records Search Example- Land Records for My 4th Great Grandfather, Samuel Taylor Why This Matters For genealogists, this update is a game-changer. Many records have never been fully indexed, leaving important context, witnesses, property details, and family connections hidden in plain sight. AI-driven full-text searching brings these details forward, helping you:
Try It Today If you tested this feature back when it was in the Labs, you’ll be thrilled to see how much it has grown. And if this is your first time trying it—prepare to be amazed at the details you can now uncover in your family history research. Head over to FamilySearch and try the Full-Text Records Search today, with your free FamilySearch Account. You never know what hidden discovery is waiting to be found! More FamilySearch Updates, Features, and ToolsLearn about other FamilySearch updates and features to help in your family history and genealogy research under the FamilySearch category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. More Genealogy ResourcesLearn about other family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
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 Tracing family roots across continents through DNA and heritage A DNA Journey Across Continents: From Uncertainty to Family Every once in a while, a research case reminds me why I do what I do. Recently, I received a heartfelt update from one of my clients, Ian, who came to me hoping to answer one of the biggest questions of his life: Who is my biological father?  At first glance, his case looked almost impossible. Ian lives here in the U.S., but he was born in Trinidad, and nearly all of his DNA matches were from Trinidad and surrounding areas. His ethnicity results included Trinidadian, Indian, and Scottish roots — a fascinating but complex mix that added layers of difficulty when trying to connect the dots. To make things even more challenging, his DNA match list was quite small, and those few matches were spread across multiple continents. On top of that, there were no records available to lean on. In short: the puzzle pieces were scattered, faded, and few. But as with every case, I started where the evidence was strongest: the DNA. By carefully analyzing centimorgans, sorting matches into groups, and mapping out their relationships, a picture slowly began to form. One key connection was Maria, a DNA match who appeared to be a half-niece to a man I suspected could be Ian’s father. Though the trail was thin, each step forward brought us closer to the truth. And then, the breakthrough came. Ian reached out, and the man I had identified as the likely father welcomed the possibility with open arms. He recognized Ian’s mother from old photographs. Later, an AncestryDNA test confirmed the relationship beyond all doubt: a 50% parent–child match. The best part? The acceptance came even before the DNA confirmation. Ian’s father, McField, and his children embraced Ian as family right away. Since then, Ian has been speaking with his father weekly, exchanging stories, sharing photos from different decades, and beginning to bridge the years they spent apart. Soon, Ian plans to go to Trinidad to meet his family in person for the very first time and his cousin and DNA match, Maria will be coming out to visit him. When I read Ian’s update, I couldn’t help but smile. What began as a challenging unknown parentage case, complicated by geography and sparse matches, ended in something far greater than just “solving a mystery.” It ended in connection, belonging, and a brand-new chapter of family life for Ian. Stories like Ian’s remind us that while DNA testing and genealogical research are about science, data, and analysis, at their heart they are really about people — about finding where we belong, and about discovering family when we least expect it. For anyone out there still searching, know that even the toughest cases can have happy endings. It may take patience, persistence, and a lot of careful work, but there is hope. The Client's Review on Google(Before contact and the DNA target test) "A few years ago, Diane Henriks was able to find the father of one of my relatives. I was given an Ancestry.com DNA kit a couple of years ago, and it showed the person I thought was my dad was really my step-father. I started wondering just who was my dad. I contacted Diane a short time ago and within 24 hours, she was able to find the person we are certain is my father. This was despite the fact that my father and I were born outside of the USA. I was given his name, a picture and other details of his life. Given my age, I was surprised he is still alive. I was able to contact one of his relatives and she welcomed me to the family. She is reaching out to him to see if he would be willing to speak with me. I am very happy with the professionalism, thoroughness, enthusiasm and speed of Diane. As another reviewer has said, she is also very personable. I highly recommend her for any genealogical searches. Thanks again Diane." -Ian B Interested in Discovering Your Own Family Story?If you have questions about your family history or are searching for long-lost relatives, you don’t have to navigate the journey alone. With professional guidance, uncovering the stories and connections of your family tree can be within reach. Feel free to reach out—each family story is unique, and I’m here to help bring yours to light.
 Exploring one ancestor’s story in three formats with ChatGPT-5 Genealogists often struggle with the challenge of presenting the same research in different formats. Sometimes you need a deeply researched, fully sectioned biography for a family history book; other times you need a flowing, narrative chapter that reads like a story; and sometimes you just need a short “ancestor snapshot” for quick reference. For my research on Samuel Steinman, my official AI tester ancestor, I decided to test ChatGPT-5 by giving it the same set of research facts — and asking for three different biographies:
Here’s how each turned out — and what I learned about GPT-5’s capabilities. 1. Detailed, Sectioned Biography with Historical ContextThe first format was a full, sectioned biography — the kind you might see in a formal research report or a comprehensive family history. This biography included:
Why it works: This approach ensures no detail is lost. It’s perfect for record-keeping, reports for clients, or the main biographical section in a printed family history. What GPT-5 added: Older versions could list facts well, but GPT-5 integrated them smoothly with historical notes, avoided repetition, and kept each section consistent in tone. It felt “polished” without heavy post-editing.
2. Narrative-Style Biography for Family History Books Next, I asked GPT-5 to take the same facts but weave them into a flowing narrative — the kind of biography that feels like you’re reading a chapter from a historical novel, even though it’s entirely factual. Example excerpt: “By the spring of 1910, Samuel had left Albany temporarily for work in El Dorado, Kansas. The Nicodemus Market kept him busy, with farmers coming in before dawn, boots muddy from the fields. But his thoughts drifted home, to Hattie and the children, and the lilac bush blooming by their gate.” Why it works: This format pulls readers in emotionally, helping them picture the ancestor as a living, breathing person. It’s ideal for family history books, presentations, or blogs where engagement matters as much as detail. What GPT-5 added: While GPT-4 could create narratives, GPT-5 stayed more historically grounded and avoided introducing anachronistic or overly modern phrases. The flow felt natural and era-appropriate without sacrificing accuracy.
3. Condensed Ancestor Snapshot for Quick Reference Finally, I asked GPT-5 to condense the same material into a brief ancestor profile — just enough for a caption next to a photo or a family tree entry. Example: Samuel Steinman (1852–1925) – Born in Hancock County, Ohio, Samuel worked as a butcher in Missouri for decades. Married to Hattie, he raised four children, was active in his community, and was known for his strong work ethic. He died in Albany, Missouri, in 1925. Why it works: These quick-reference summaries are perfect for timelines, photo albums, online family trees, and social media posts. What GPT-5 added: The ability to distill decades of life into a few sentences without losing the core identity of the person. Older versions could do this, but GPT-5 does it with more precise word choice and without cutting out essential facts.
Key Takeaways for Genealogists
This exercise proved that GPT-5 isn’t just about answering questions — it can reshape the same research into exactly the format you need, making it a powerful tool for professional and personal genealogy projects. More AI and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more AI in Genealogy and other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
 First look at ChatGPT-5 — faster, more accurate, and ready to assist with genealogy research OpenAI has just released ChatGPT-5, the newest version of its popular AI tool — and it’s already showing promise for research, writing, and organization. I recently tested it out on a client genealogy report, and the results were impressive: clear, accurate, and written in a style that felt like my own. I’ll be doing more in-depth testing soon, but here’s an early overview of what’s changed and what it could mean for genealogy and family history work. What’s New
How This Can Help Genealogists Previous versions of ChatGPT could already help with drafting, summarizing, and organizing — but ChatGPT-5 tends to do these tasks with more accuracy, better flow, and less editing afterward. For genealogists, that means:
Next Up: The Real Genealogy Test In the coming weeks, I’ll put ChatGPT-5 through a full genealogy-focused trial — everything from interpreting records to building clear timelines for complex family trees. I’ll share examples, strengths, and limitations so you can decide if it’s worth adding to your own research toolkit. For now, my first impression is that ChatGPT-5 feels like a more reliable and efficient partner — one that could help free up more of our time for the hands-on, human side of genealogy. Just keep in mind that as AI progresses, so must you. Thus, the way you interact with ChatGPT must evolve as well for you to be able to see and reap the benefits. If you'd like to learn more about the usage limits and the model deprecations and what it will mean for you, learn more at: GPT-5 in ChatGPT More AI and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more AI in Genealogy and other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
 Upgrading your system? Make space for Windows 11 and your family history For many of us in the genealogy community, our computers are our lifelines—our virtual libraries, archives, and research labs. But if you’re still running Windows 10, there’s an urgent deadline looming that could affect your access to security updates and compatibility with new genealogy software: Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. As a genealogist who just spent days cleaning and clearing my C: Drive, let me share what I learned from this digital deep-clean, and how you can avoid tech headaches while preserving your research and preparing your system for the transition. ⚠️ Why This Matters: The Windows 11 Upgrade Deadline Windows 10 will no longer receive updates after October 14, 2025, meaning your computer could become vulnerable to security threats—and some genealogy programs may eventually stop supporting it. Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t just a click-and-go process. It requires a minimum of 64 GB free space on your C: Drive just to begin the upgrade, and ideally 20+ GB additional to temporarily store the old system files during the process. For genealogists, that’s a tall order—especially if you’ve been running Family Tree Maker or other data-heavy programs on your system drive for years. 💡 Lessons Learned from My Upgrade Prep Here are a few critical takeaways from my own prep process that I believe every genealogist should consider: 1. Don’t Store Research Files on Your C: Drive When I installed Family Tree Maker 2019 five years ago (waiting to upgrade to Windows 11 before I install my FTM 2024 I received a few months ago), it defaulted to the C: Drive on my then new computer. I hadn’t realized just how much space had accumulated--over 144 GB of media files, backups, and client folders. While this was fine back then, it became a major roadblock when preparing for the Windows 11 upgrade. System updates depend on having enough space on the system drive, and FTM data can quickly eat up that room. ✅ Genealogist Tip: If your computer has a data drive (D:), move your Family Tree Maker media and backup folders there and change the default path in FTM's settings. If you're using a laptop without a D: Drive, consider using a reliable external SSD as your default path. 2. Keep Multiple Backups—But Know Where They Live Before deleting anything, I backed up my Family Tree Maker folders and other important files in three different locations: an external SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD, a Samsung T7 Shield Portable SSD, and a WD Elements Desktop External Hard Drive. I also use cloud storage selectively for vital documents. ✅ Genealogist Tip: Always back up in at least two or three places—especially before moving or deleting any genealogy files. Think of it as digital preservation insurance for your life's work. 3. Clean Your Computer Regularly Even after deleting huge folders like Pictures, Videos, and Music, I noticed my C: Drive space mysteriously disappearing over time. Turns out, many apps and background processes slowly creep back in. ✅ Genealogist Tip: Schedule routine digital cleanups every few months. Uninstall unused apps, clear browser caches, and move or delete non-essential files. Use tools like Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense in Windows to automate some of this process. 🛠️ How to Move Family Tree Maker Files to Another Drive For those using Family Tree Maker, here’s a simplified step-by-step guide to changing the file path:
💻 What to Do If Your Computer Can’t Run Windows 11 If your device doesn’t meet the Windows 11 Upgrade hardware requirements (such as TPM 2.0 or processor compatibility), you have a few options:
🧬 Why This Matters for Genealogists We spend countless hours building, sourcing, and preserving our family trees. Losing access to updates, programs, or data because of a full C: Drive or outdated operating system could stall—or worse, derail—our work. By keeping our systems clean, our files organized, and our programs properly configured, we’re not just managing technology—we’re preserving history. Final Thoughts Cleaning up my computer was exhausting, but it was a wake-up call. Whether you’re preparing for the Windows 11 upgrade or simply trying to keep your system running smoothly, make this a regular part of your genealogical routine. It’s not just good computer hygiene—it’s good family history preservation. ✅ Quick Checklist for Genealogists
If you’ve recently gone through a digital cleanup, I’d love to hear about it. Share your experience in the comments below—or better yet, let us know your best tip for keeping your genealogy work organized and safe! More Genealogy Software and OrganizationLearn about more family history and genealogy software and organization under the Genealogy Software and Organization categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
 A nostalgic look at 1970s Southern California coffee shop culture Nostalgia in a Cup: Childhood Memories of Coffee Shops in the 1970s and Early 1980s Childhood memories are often painted with vivid snapshots of the places and people that shaped them. For me, many of those memories are steeped in the warm, familiar aroma of coffee shops. In the 1970s and early 1980s, these humble diners were not just eateries—they were a way of life for my family. Coffee Shops: A Cultural Mainstay Coffee shops in the 70s and early 80s were found everywhere, affordable, and welcoming. Their 24-hour service and simple menus made them the go-to spots for families, late-night crowds, and social gatherings. At their peak, coffee shops like Sambo's, Norms, and Bob’s Big Boy dotted the Southern California landscape. Each offered something unique, yet all were tied together by a shared atmosphere of casual comfort. These coffee shops weren’t just places to eat—they were community hubs. Families on a budget could enjoy an inexpensive meal, and friends could linger over endless cups of coffee while catching up. They reflected a slower time when people connected face-to-face without the distractions of smartphones or social media. My Dad: From Morning Paper to Coffee Shop Crew My dad was a quintessential coffee shop patron, a habit he’s kept to this day. Back then, he’d head to the nearest spot early in the morning for a cup of coffee, a hearty breakfast, and the morning paper. It was his quiet ritual. Later, when we went out together as a family, it was always to a coffee shop. Breakfast or lunch—it didn’t matter. Coffee shops were dependable. When he took me to ice skating lessons or practice, he’d always wait nearby in one, coffee cup in hand. Today, he’s still there—different coffee shops, same habit—now joined by a rotating cast of lifelong buddies. They meet up in the mornings, swapping stories over steaming mugs, keeping the tradition alive. My Mom: Late-Night Coffee and Ice Skating Friends My mom also gravitated toward coffee shops, especially for late-night meetups with her ice-skating friends. After long days at the rink, she’d sometimes bring us along for hot chocolate or dessert. A slice of pie or a steaming mug of cocoa after skating made those evenings feel special. By the early 80s, her tastes had shifted slightly--Bob’s Big Boy became her spot of choice. Whether it was the Arcadia location on Baldwin Avenue or another nearby branch, I remember the cheerful Big Boy mascot beckoning us inside. The Kid’s Perspective: Single-Serve Cereal and Peg Games As a child, I wasn’t exactly a fan of coffee shop breakfast food. Pancakes, waffles, French toast, and eggs? Not for me. Thankfully, coffee shops often came to the rescue with single-serve cereal containers. There was something delightful about opening a mini box of Frosted Flakes or Sugar Smacks and pouring cold milk over it. One particular coffee shop near our home on Duarte Road in Arcadia holds a special place in my heart. My dad would take us there when we were little and again after my parents’ divorce, during his visitation days. Each table had a wooden peg game, which my siblings and I would eagerly play while waiting for breakfast. Those moments, simple as they were, carried a sense of stability and joy. Coffee Shops in Historical ContextSome of the coffee shops we frequented are now long gone or rebranded. Sambo's, once a nationwide chain, was a familiar sight during my childhood. Locations like Santa Monica’s Ocean Boulevard, Pasadena’s Rosemead Boulevard, and Arcadia’s Huntington Drive are tied to memories of family outings. However, the chain faced controversy over its name and imagery and eventually rebranded or closed all of its locations, except for the Santa Barbara one that lasted until 2020. Norms, on the other hand, has endured. With its iconic Googie-style architecture and neon signage, Norms remains a Southern California staple. Its late-night hours and affordable menu have kept it popular for generations. Then there’s IHOP, or as it was formally known, the International House of Pancakes. It was a place where stacks of fluffy pancakes were the star of the show, even if I opted for cereal instead. And of course, Bob’s Big Boy—with its cheerful statue out front and retro diner feel—was a step up in coffee shop chic. It was where we'd go when we were just a little bit more dressed up or had a reason to celebrate. Why These Memories Matter Looking back, coffee shops were more than just places to eat—they were the backdrop to countless family moments. They were where my parents could stretch a dollar and still treat us to a meal out. They were where we went to unwind after skating, laugh over simple games, and connect as a family. Even now, when I pass a Norms or see a Bob’s Big Boy sign, I feel a pang of nostalgia. The world has changed so much, but coffee shops still carry the echoes of simpler times and shared routines. What about you? Do you have a favorite coffee shop memory? Maybe it’s the taste of a milkshake, a certain table where your family always sat, or the way a slice of pie always seemed like the perfect end to a meal. Share your story—I’d love to hear it. *Note: The blog image is an AI generated image and does not depict the true signage of the coffee shops. More Nostalgic Memories Top 5 Libraries for Genealogy Research: Essential Resources to Unlock Your Family History When diving into genealogy, libraries are invaluable resources, offering access to unique collections, databases, and expert assistance. Here are some of the best libraries for genealogy research, each with its own special strengths that can help you uncover your family's history. 1. FamilySearch Library (Salt Lake City, Utah)The FamilySearch Library, formerly known as the Family History Library, operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is the largest genealogical library in the world. It offers:
 FamilySearch Library (Family History Library) for Best Family History and Genealogy Research 2. Library of Congress (Washington, D.C.) The Library of Congress (LOC) holds a treasure trove of genealogical resources. This library offers:
 Library of Congress for Best Family History and Genealogy Research 3. Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center (Fort Wayne, Indiana) The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) is renowned for its comprehensive genealogy collection, including:
 Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center for Best Family History and Genealogy Research 4. New York Public Library (New York, New York) The New York Public Library (NYPL) boasts an impressive array of genealogical resources, especially for those with New York ancestry. Key features include:
 New York Public Library for Best Family History and Genealogy Research 5. Midwest Genealogy Center (Independence, Missouri) Part of the Mid-Continent Public Library system, the Midwest Genealogy Center (MGC) is one of the largest public genealogy libraries in the U.S. It offers:
 Midwest Genealogy Center at the Mid-Continent Public Library for Best Family History and Genealogy Research Tips for Making the Most of Library Resources
More Genealogical Societies & LibrariesLearn about more genealogical libraries (and Societies) in this ultimate guide: Genealogy Resources: Genealogical Societies, Historical Societies, and Libraries for Genealogical Research More Top GenealogyMore Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
 Ancestry’s New DNA Matches by Cluster Feature in Beta Ancestry has just introduced a new feature for their AncestryDNA Pro Tools subscription called Matches by Cluster — a tool currently in Beta testing. This new option automatically organizes some of your DNA matches into groups that most likely share a common ancestor. If you’ve ever explored DNA clustering methodologies such as the Leeds Method or used third-party tools for cluster analysis, you’ll recognize the concept: grouping matches based on how they share DNA not just with you, but also with each other. Here’s an overview of how this new Ancestry feature works, what it currently offers, and my initial impressions after exploring it. How It Works Matches by Cluster analyzes your DNA matches and organizes them into clusters. The goal is to help you visualize and understand groups of people who may descend from the same ancestor or ancestral couple. Currently, the feature works within a specific range:
What I Noticed When I tested this feature on my own DNA results, Ancestry created seven small clusters for me — a mix of maternal and paternal side groups. The groups were relatively modest in size:
Currently, the clusters seem to center on matches connected to second great-grandparent couples, which may help those who are still establishing the broader framework of their DNA connections.  Ancestry DNA Match by Cluster Example- Groups Additional Insights
Who Might Benefit from This? This new clustering tool seems especially well-suited for:
Looking Ahead Because Matches by Cluster is still a Beta feature, it will be interesting to watch how it evolves. The ability to create custom clusters based on cM ranges or targeted matches will make this tool far more flexible and potentially more powerful down the road. If Ancestry expands this feature to include all matches across a broader cM range, it could become even more useful for identifying connections beyond the 2nd great-grandparent level and help visualize deeper ancestral ties that may not yet be obvious. Final Thoughts As with all tools, the value of Matches by Cluster depends on where you are in your research journey. For those newer to DNA or just beginning to get comfortable with organizing matches, this tool could offer helpful direction. For more advanced genealogists, it may serve as a supplemental tool while we wait to see how Ancestry expands its capabilities in future updates. I’ll be keeping an eye on this feature as it develops and will share further insights as new options are rolled out. Have you tried Matches by Cluster yet? I’d love to hear about your experiences and thoughts on its potential for your research! More Ancestry and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more Ancestry updates, tips, tools, and features and other family history and genealogy resources under the Ancestry.com and the Genealogy Resources categories of my blog and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
 Top 5 Genealogy Tips for Beginners – A simple checklist to help you start your family history journey today Starting your genealogy journey can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many resources and techniques available, it’s essential to know where to begin. Here are my top five genealogy tips for beginners, complete with examples and detailed guidance to help you start your family history adventure. 1. Start with What You Know One of the most fundamental rules in genealogy is to start with what you know. Begin by gathering information from your own family, including parents, grandparents, and other close relatives. Record their full names, birth and death dates, places of residence, and any stories they may have shared about your ancestors. Example: Imagine you’re trying to trace your great-grandfather’s origins. Begin by asking your family members what they know about him. Perhaps your grandmother remembers that he was born in a small town in Ohio and worked as a blacksmith. This information provides a starting point for your research, helping you to focus on specific locations and time periods. Tip in Action: Create a simple family tree chart starting with yourself and working backward. Write down every piece of information you gather, even if it seems insignificant. A small detail, like a family nickname or a vague memory of a place, can become a crucial clue later in your research. 2. Use Census Records as a Foundation Census records are a treasure trove of information for genealogists, especially beginners. They provide snapshots of a family at specific points in time, listing names, ages, occupations, and sometimes even relationships within the household. These records are invaluable for constructing timelines and identifying potential new avenues of research. Example: Let’s say you’re researching your great-grandmother, who was born around 1900. By locating her in the 1900, 1910, 1920, and 1930 U.S. Census records, you can track her family’s movements, discover her parents' names, and even identify siblings you may not have known about. Additionally, censuses often reveal occupations, which can lead you to other types of records like employment files or local directories. Tip in Action: When you find your ancestors in a census record, jot down every detail, including neighbors and other household members. Sometimes extended family members lived nearby or even with your ancestors, offering additional clues. For example, a previously unknown aunt living in the same household might lead you to another branch of your family tree. You can learn more about what you can find in census records starting with my blog The 1850 U.S. Census: One of the Golden Genealogy Records and continuing from there. 3. Document Your Sources Properly documenting your sources is a habit that will pay off in the long run. Every time you find a new piece of information, whether it’s from a census record, a family bible, or a birth certificate, make sure to record where you found it. This practice ensures the credibility of your research and allows others to follow your research trail. Example: Suppose you discover your great-grandfather’s birth date in an old church record. It’s tempting to write down the date and move on, but take the time to note the specific name of the church, the location, and even the book and page number if available. This way, if anyone questions the accuracy of your information, you can point them directly to the original source. Tip in Action: Use a research log or software like a genealogy database to keep track of your sources. Even a simple spreadsheet can work wonders for organizing your citations. This habit will prevent headaches later when you need to revisit a particular source or share your findings with others. Trust me; I'm still paying for this from my beginning research days. 4. Verify Information Before Accepting It as Fact Genealogy is full of surprises, but not all of them are accurate. It’s crucial to verify every piece of information you find before accepting it as fact. This step is particularly important when working with online trees or records that may have been transcribed incorrectly. Example: You might find an online family tree that shows your great-great-grandfather’s birthplace as New York. Before you add this information to your own tree, seek out additional sources that confirm this detail, such as birth certificates, census records, or land deeds. In some cases, you might find conflicting information, requiring you to dig deeper to uncover the truth. Tip in Action: Compare multiple sources before drawing conclusions. If three different records list the same birth date and place, it’s likely accurate. But if two records show conflicting information, you may need to investigate further to determine which is correct. Always be skeptical of information that doesn’t have a source attached or that comes from secondary sources like online trees. 5. Explore Local Archives and Libraries While online research is convenient, don’t overlook the value of local archives, libraries, and genealogical societies. These repositories often hold unique records that aren’t available online, such as local newspapers, land deeds, church records, and more. Visiting these places can unearth information that provides a richer, more detailed picture of your ancestors’ lives. Example: If you’re researching ancestors who lived in a rural town, consider visiting the local library or county courthouse. You might find property records showing where your ancestors lived, old newspapers with obituaries, or even court records involving your ancestors. These local resources can provide context and fill in gaps that online databases may not cover. Tip in Action: Call ahead or check the website of the local archive or library to understand what records they hold and any special requirements for accessing them. Some archives may require appointments, while others might have helpful staff who can guide you to relevant records. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance—they often have resources and knowledge that can significantly aid your research. You can learn more about what records and free resources you can obtain from local repositories in my blog post Genealogy Resources: Genealogical Societies, Historical Societies, and Libraries for Genealogical Research. ConclusionBy following these five tips, you’ll establish a strong foundation for your genealogy research. Remember, patience and persistence are key. Every record, story, and detail you uncover brings you closer to understanding your family’s unique history. Happy researching! More Top GenealogyMore Genealogy Tips6/29/2025 LiveMemory™ Now Available on the MyHeritage Website: Bring Your Photos to Life—Right From Your DesktopRead Now A cherished holiday memory brought to life: MyHeritage’s LiveMemory™ feature now available on the web If you’ve ever wished you could step inside a treasured family photograph, MyHeritage is making that dream even more accessible. After a successful launch on the MyHeritage mobile app last November, LiveMemory™—a tool that transforms still photos into short, lifelike video clips—is now available directly on the MyHeritage website. As part of the MyHeritage Friends program, I had the opportunity to preview the new web-based version of LiveMemory™ ahead of its release. I’m excited to now share that this powerful feature is officially available for everyone to use--no mobile app required! What Is LiveMemory™?LiveMemory™ uses advanced AI to animate entire scenes from old photographs. Unlike earlier tools that focused on facial animation alone, LiveMemory™ takes it to the next level by bringing movement and subtle action to the whole scene. A photo of your grandmother at her sewing machine, a child at the beach, or a birthday celebration frozen in time—LiveMemory™ reimagines those moments in motion. Since its launch, over half a million animations have been created by users all over the world. It’s been moving, emotional, and inspiring to see family memories animated with such heart. What’s New with the Web Version?The newly released desktop version of LiveMemory™ includes several exciting additions:
How to Use LiveMemory™ on the WebGetting started is simple:
A Few of My Own LiveMemory™ TrialsAs part of the MyHeritage Friends group, I had early access to LiveMemory™ and tested it out on a variety of photos—some with more natural results than others. I found that clear, close-up portraits tended to work best with the AI animations, especially when the subjects were facing the camera. Here are a few examples from my own family photo collection that I tried using the new web-based version of LiveMemory™: Grandma with Her Two Young Sons (Circa 1944) This sweet black-and-white photo features my grandmother holding my father and uncle on her lap. The LiveMemory™ animation gently brought out movement in my grandmother’s expression and added a lifelike quality to the scene—like stepping into a quiet afternoon in the 1940s. A Visit with Santa (Circa 1955–1957) This charming snapshot shows my mother as a child sitting on Santa Claus’s lap at a department store during the holidays. The LiveMemory™ animation gave the scene a subtle sparkle of holiday magic—adding a little laughter and movement as if he were asking her want she wanted for Christmas. Christmas Morning (Circa 1962) Here’s one from my mother’s teenage years—she’s about 14 in this photo, sitting in front of the family’s Christmas tree with her three younger brothers. This busy holiday snapshot translated surprisingly well with LiveMemory™, adding a flicker of excitement and animation to what was clearly a joyful, gift-filled morning. Three Generations in One Frame (Circa early 1950s) This family group photo includes my father as a boy of about 10, along with his older sister, her husband and their baby, my grandfather, and one of my dad’s older brothers. The LiveMemory™ animation added subtle gestures that made it feel like a candid moment from a family gathering rather than just a posed portrait. Why Try LiveMemory™?LiveMemory™ isn’t just a novelty—it’s an emotional, sometimes breathtaking experience. For genealogists, family historians, and anyone curious about the past, it offers a new way to connect with ancestors and loved ones on a deeper level. Whether you’re creating clips to share at a family reunion or using them to inspire the next generation’s interest in family history, this tool adds something fresh and powerful to your storytelling toolbox. Final ThoughtsThe new web release of LiveMemory™ makes this feature more accessible than ever before. Whether you’re revisiting photos you’ve animated before or trying something new with one of the creative effects, it’s the perfect time to explore how technology can deepen our connection to the past. Give it a try on the MyHeritage website, and don’t forget to share your results using #MyHeritage and #LiveMemory. I’d love to hear what moments you’ve brought to life! More MyHeritage, AI, and Other Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more MyHeritage, AI in Genealogy, and other family history and genealogy resources under the MyHeritage, AI in Genealogy, Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
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Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family: Family History and Genealogy BlogI hope my family history and genealogy blog on genealogy research tips, resources, events, and more, along with my own genealogy journeys, will help you in your research and in building your family tree to learn more about your ancestors and family history to preserve for future generations to come! Categories
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