Genealogy

Are you interested in genealogy but would like some guidance on how and where to research?

This 5-part beginner genealogy series covers the fundamental aspects of researching family history including developing a research plan, utilizing online and physical resources, learning about common record types, source analysis and documentation.

The curriculum was designed by Michele LeTourneur, a family history enthusiast and avid researcher. Michele has been interested in family stories for over 35 years but started her own deep-dive into genealogy in 2020. She is a member of the Fairfax Genealogical Society. The slides and handouts below are part of the in-person series led by LeTourneur in the fall of 2025.

Session 1 - Before You Start Researching 

Session 2 - How To Research

Session 3 - What To Research

Session 4 - Where To Research

Session 5 - How To Document Your Research

Introductory Session

• What is your intent?
• Where to store your research
• Computer-based software programs
• Online tree platforms
• One online tree or several?
• Don’t lose your research!
• Want to learn more?

Develop your own process

• Terminology
• Best practices for solid research
• Know the different types of sources, information, and evidence
• Know your locality
• Name, names, names
• Research goal vs. research plan
• Research on 3 different platform and with 3 different search types

Searching records

• Vital Documents
• Residency Records
• Church Records
• Military Records
• Court Records
• Immigration Records
• Government Records
• Newspapers
• Cemeteries
• and more!

Finding records and other information about your ancestors:

• Vital Documents
• Residency Records
• Church Records
• Military Records
• Court Records
• Immigration Records
• Government Records
• Newspapers
• Cemeteries
• Other Records

Don't lose track of all your hard work!

• Best Practices
• Saving Your Records
• Sources
• Research Notes
• Transcribing, Translating and Abstracting
• Research Tips for Using AI in Your 
• Documentation
• Research Tips for Digitizing Records and 
• Materials