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Practical guide to first genealogical research: on the trail of your ancestors

19 June 2024

2 minutes

For many Italians abroad, the connection to the homeland is a fundamental thread in their identity. The desire to rediscover one’s Sardinian roots, to learn about the history and traditions of the places where one’s ancestors came from, is a sentiment shared by several generations.

 

Why is it good to rediscover the origins of one’s ancestors?

  • Getting to know yourself: Immersing oneself in one’s family history provides a better understanding of one’s identity, the values passed down and the characteristics that make us who we are.
  • A sense of belonging: Tracing our origins connects us to a place and a community, giving us a sense of belonging and rootedness.
  • Preserving memory: Reconstructing the family tree means preserving the memory of our ancestors and passing it on to future generations.
  • A unique experience: Genealogical research is an exciting adventure that leads us to discover often unknown stories and characters, enriching our knowledge of the past.

 

Step one: collect basic information

 

Start by gathering as much information as possible about your direct ancestors: names, surnames, dates of birth, death and marriage, places of residence. The more details you have, the easier it will be to trace the family tree.

An excellent resource for finding this information is family records: birth, marriage and death certificates,letters, photographs, old passports and any other documents that may contain clues about your ancestors.

 

Step two: consult available resources online

 

There are several websites and online databases that can help you in your genealogical research. Some of the most useful include:

Ancestor Portal:
https://antenati.cultura.gov.it/?lang=en

FamilySearch:
https://www.familysearch.org/en/united-states/

 

Step three: deepen research in archives

 

Some essential information, such as birth, death and marriage records prior to 1921, can only be found in the archives of municipalities and parishes. In this case, you may need professional support to access these sources and interpret the documents correctly.

 

ItaleaSardegna: your ally in genealogical research

 

If you would like practical help in researching your ancestors in Sardinia, ItaleaSardegna offers a professional personalized genealogical consulting service. Our experts will help you reconstruct your family tree, providing the information and assistance you need for a complete and rewarding research experience.

 

Remember: genealogical research is an exciting journey that requires time, patience and dedication. Don’t be discouraged if at first you don’t get the desired results right away. With perseverance and the help of the right tools, you can finally discover the history of your ancestors and reconnect with your Sardinian roots.

 

Good luck with your research!

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