Beginning Your Family History
It is best to gather in advance as much data on them as possible on the families that you are researching. Sources can include personal knowledge, older relatives, family bibles and other documents, and oral tradition. Be sure to note the date and the source of all information. The Archives supplies a 'beginner's kit' with forms showing the kinds of information you will need to look for. Names, dates, and places are the three anchor points in your research. After you have gathered your information, you will know what you do not have and what data you need to verify. You will begin your search by working backward generation by generation.
Another good way to learn the ropes of genealogical research is by reading about the subject. In The Urbana Free Library Adult Services there are a number of useful 'how-to' books that may be checked out. These may be found by browsing the 929.1 area of the collection.
Using the library’s online catalog is the most efficient way of finding published materials in the Archives. Material may be looked up by author, title, geographical location, or subject. If you are searching for a family history, select "Subject Keyword" from the search menu. Then type the surname of the family. The call number refers you to the location of each item and should be noted. The Local History Online database is the Champaign County Historical Archives’ main resource for searching the Archives’ massive and highly diverse collection of primary and secondary materials on Urbana municipal government and Champaign County genealogy and history. Don’t hesitate to ask a librarian for help using these resources.
A selected list of what the Archives has to offer:
- Family Histories. Maybe, just maybe, someone else already has compiled information on your family.
- County or State Histories. These often contain biographical information, especially for prominent citizens.
- War Records. Records are primarily for Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Ask a librarian about writing for the actual service records.
- Vital Records. You will probably have to request copies of birth, marriage, and death records from the appropriate county or state agency, but we can help you find where to write.
- Magazine Indexes. Genealogical magazines contain a wealth of information, and indexes can help you locate information on your family or area of interest.
- Federal Census Rolls. We have census microfilm for Champaign County, the surrounding 14 counties, and some other areas. Indexes are available for many states and counties.
- International Genealogical Index (IGI). This microfilm collection contains information on vital events (birth, marriage, death, etc.) both in the U.S. and abroad.
- Passenger and Immigration Lists. These may be the key to help you identify your immigrant ancestor.
- Patriotic Society Publications. Works by the Daughters of the American Revolution, for example, can provide important clues to your search.
- Atlases. Geography can sometimes be the key to your search. Current and historical atlases are available for many areas.
- And much, much more. . . .
