NORTH
HILLS GENEALOGISTS

North Hills Genealogists
PO Box 169
Wexford, PA 15090

INFO@
NorthHills
Genealogists.org
RESEARCH HINTS & IDEAS

PREPARING FOR A RESEARCH TRIP
By Elissa Scalise Powell, CG

PREPARE YOURSELF

Wear comfortable, appropriate clothing

c

“Post-it” pads & pencils

Wear comfortable shoes

c

Paper / alligator clips

Have small bills ready (ones and fives)

c

Magnifying glass

Use a “belly pack” for money, keys, ID, etc.

c

Empty folders

Consider snacks

c

3-hole punch

Pack pain relievers and other necessary medication

c

Computer cable lock

Consider a light sweater even in the summer

c

Wheeled case or dolly

 

c

Hard candy

 

c

Bring a picture ID.

PREPARE YOUR RESEARCH

  • Update your notes from any previous research trips.
  • Prepare a timeline “cheat sheet” for each family.
  • Review research logs.
  • Save time: perform research that can be done locally such as census records.
  • Print new pedigree and family group sheets.
  • Bring blank forms.
  • Do not bring original documents.
  • *Formulate a research plan tailored to the intended facility.*

 

DO RECONNAISSANCE

  • Find websites (GenWeb.com) and research guides by location (familysearch.org).
  • Find websites or guidebooks of repositories.
  • Read the repository rules and plan to abide by them:
    • note any entrance requirements
    • limitations on belongings
    • rules on copying (both photocopy and scanner)
    • materials access
  • Search the on-line card catalog for material of interest. Write down call numbers.
  • Note types of materials that might not be in the catalog.
  • Locate where the materials are and what access is needed, including off-site storage.

 

TRAVELING THERE

  • Make travel and hotel arrangements ahead of time.
  • Check repository for holiday or other special hours.
  • Plan appropriate time in the facility.
  • Use mapping websites to help you locate features such as cemeteries or churches.
  • Make contact ahead of time with town historian, genealogical society, or lost cousins.

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