Getting Started
Phelan family, 1939 (POOLEWP 4313)
Your family research begins with you and your immediate family.
If you are undertaking research you should start by checking and comparing notes and recollections with other family members. Consult old photographs on which names and dates may be noted, newspaper clippings, old letters, family Bibles, as well as family gravestones. Try to establish approximate dates (of births, marriages and deaths) as well as names (forenames and related family names) and places of residence.
This information will help to identify relevant records. Religious denomination is also important in determining which records are relevant to your research.
The NLI has created a worksheet and online booklet which includes an interactive Family Ancestry Chart or Family Tree and provides clear and practical steps as you start your research.
Download NLI Family History Chart