When I first realized the importance of genealogical research, I wanted a book in which to record my research data and notes. I started with a three-ring binder and page protectors. I put everything that I had pertaining to my family tree in the binder.
I had articles on how to build a family tree that I had clipped from magazines. I put those together in sleeves and added a tab divider to keep them organized. Next, I added handwritten notes that were given to me by my grandparents. The notes contained names and dates of some of our ancestors, along with their occupations and relative facts.
It surprised me at how quickly I filled a three-ring binder once I had gathered everything pertaining to my genealogical research project. I realized that this was great for organizing my paperwork. I also realized that it wasn’t what I needed as an heirloom book of family history.
What I wanted was to find a book that I could use to create my family tree. I wanted it to be something I could pass down to my child and that could be kept in our family. I think it is important, if you are going to build a family tree, to preserve it. I also think it is great to record stories about ancestors to be told to future generations of family members.
Because the best way to record genealogical research is in books, that is what I wanted to find. I highly suggest scanning and saving information onto a DVD or hard drive for archival purposes. However, I believe that books still have a place in the lives of family historians and should be used to collect and store handwritten notes and information.
The following list includes books that I have either considered or purchased for recording genealogical information. If you are looking for a book of this type, you may want to consider one of these options:
Family History Record Books
Our Family History: Record Book, Photograph Album and Family Tree
Footprints of Faith: A Christian Family Record Book
There are other books available. Try to find a book that fits your own style. I would also suggest finding a hardcover book to record a family tree, stories and facts about your ancestors. If the book is designed to help you do this, it keeps facts organized and provides helpful templates. That is what will make the book worth keeping and passing down to future generations.
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