Genealogy: Home

Browse the genealogy resources at all Hunterdon County Library System locations here.

There are many resources for genealogical research at HCLS. However, as experienced genealogical researchers know, no single library or resource is complete, so other sources that may be helpful in your search are included in this guide.  

1. Start by recording information in a systematic way. A Pedigree Chart and Family Group Sheets (see Forms) are great starts for organizing.
2. Start with yourself (name, date and place of birth).
3. Now work backwards: record the same information about each of your parents and all of their parents. Add as much as you know about the important facts of their lives (dates and places of birth, marriages, and death).
4. Look for records you may have at home that may provide this information: photo albums, scrapbooks, diaries, letters, birth and death certificates.
5. Interview family members, especially older generations. Gather names, events, stories. Ask if they have family photos or documents and gather this information.
6. Now start your search online. See https://1950census.archives.gov/ to find searchable copies of the 1950 United States Census (the most recent available) and work backwards in time, writing down information as you find it. BE SURE TO MAKE A NOTE OF WHERE YOU FOUND THE INFORMATION. 
7. Explore other online records to find places that your ancestors may have lived or worked and make a plan to contact libraries, archives, and historical societies in these areas to expand your research.

Once you've made a start, you will learn research strategies as you go. You can also talk to librarians, professional genealogists, and other researchers to learn more. Check HCLS's catalog to find books on getting started with Family History.