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General => Technical Help => Family History Programs, Tree Organisation, Presentation => Topic started by: ~Rachel~ on Friday 16 December 05 16:15 GMT (UK)
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When I started looking in to my family tree I never realised what a huge project it would turn in to.
As a result I have a ring binder bursting with printouts and certificates, in a rough chronological order and sorted by different surnames. Then on my computer I have bits and pieces saved all over the place. :-[
I keep coming up with ways to organise it that get very complicated very quickly!
So how do you all look after yours? I'm ready to pinch any tips! ;D
Rachel
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Hi Rachel:
I think everybody has their own ideas how they keep track of all their information. For myself I have each family in a binder (that's my paper trail) then I use the family tree maker program to keep track of everything on the computer. If use use a program on the computer be sure to make back ups. Helps when your comupter crashes!!!
But I must say I have a table that is loaded with bits of paper and my note books I keep all my full note books and I found I am always going back to them to check information out. Even though my desk is a mess I know where everything is.
Not sure if I have been any help. Enjoy doing your research, I think this is the best hobby there is !!
Merry Christmas
Cheers
Anne
Canada
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Hi
Organise? :o paper trails in ever increasing folders as each part of the trail splits yet again into more branches....
I shall be watching this thread for ideas.
Lemontree
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I have the LDS free PAF 5 and find that it suits me, it allows you to keep track of all your ancestors, I have mine and my husbands all on one and then split the various families into separate files within that. I also have all the notes for each person in the notes sections (actually thats not true :( cos I'm way behind on that).
I also have paper copies, mine tend to be in family groups.
Note books are a good idea because bits of paper get lost and tend to run way out of control if you let them ;D write in pencil, much easier to rub something out than scribble in biro.
Also if you have note books you tend not to throw away that vital piece of information, something I did a lot of early on ::)
Suey, surrounded by chaos :D
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Hi Everyone
I Also Keep mine in Diffrent Ring Binders am researching a Number For My Husbands Side of the Family and a Number for Mine..I have been reasearching now for Approx 10 years.. and have had to redo my trees a number of Times.. Family tree software i carn't seem to get a Grip of..Maybe its because i Like having scrapps of paper all over the Place ;D
Regards
Iria
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Hi Everyone.
Organized? I've only been at this researching lark for about a year but I already have over 1600 names of people I am related to or descended from. Most of the detail is entered on software (GSP) and backed up but I have only recently realized it would have been a good idea to include GRO index nos etc right from the start.
As to keeping notes on paper, it's no good for me 'cos the only system I seem able to operate is the random system. That way if it gets knocked off the table, it's still in order!!! :-[
Regards
Andy
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truthfully?
badly
I've found that although I am a linear thinker, I am a holistic visual recorder.I like to drill down into detail to hunt for info and occasionally come up for air and try a scattergun apprach. I bought a family tree programme when the details became too complex for notebooks, but I haven't got on with it well as I find it rather disjointed. The reference I use most is a huge chart ( a couple of flip chart pages) which allows me to see all the links (an admittedly small tree of 200 names) at a glance-I put references, wild cards and hunches on it too
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Hi mc8
I used to have a printout chart of my tree, as it grew, pinned up on the wall and put post it notes all over it with anything of interest or needing further research.
I recently printed out my maternal side for an uncle who wanted proof that he was related to the man who built Captain Cooks ship, HMS Endeavor.
When the chart was stuck together it measured approx 20 feet wide by 4 feet long!!!
Don't think I'll be doing a complete print!
Regards
Andy
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Hi Rachel
Like most of the others I suggest you find out whether you can work with a family tree programme or prefer bits of paper.
I use Family Tree Maker because it keeps the notes on that individual together. When I need to see relationships and detail its easy to print out just the bits you want ( you will have to scrap the printout soon after because you add more to it but it can be your notebook until you have entered it into the comp prog.
We have separated the mainlines intop four lever arch files and keep Births and Deaths certificates together Census returns are grouped at the end of the family by year. Because she has everything in order my wife trawls through the certificates regularly and comes up with additional information almost every time so it pays to be organised.
However you do it - its a buzz and every new Certificate sets off another trail
Have fun
Russell
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Only been doing my tree for 11 months, so I haven't really got myself into a routine yet.
I use RM2 software for my tree, and have notes attached to each entry of where I found the info eg. census.
My printouts, jotted notes and certificates are all lumped into one huge file, which to the untrained eye is complete chaos, but makes perfect sense to me as I know where everything is. I am also fortunate enough to have a photographic memory and can remember every detail of each member in my tree (1450 entries). My aunt calls me "the computer" because I can just reel off facts instantly.
Think I need to get out more!!!
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I use "Brother's Keeper" so that I can keep tabs on everyone on my computer; BUT I also have many ring binders and folders with print outs, certificates, census info, photos, ets, etc. BUT most important of all, I save AND print all emails with new information - I've had too many hard disk failures and lost too may important emails in the past.
The dining table is covered in binders and folders, but is in reach of my computer desk should a new contact email me via my website, whatever, so that I can grab the relevant folder.
Trouble comes when I have to clear the table and tidy up - it takes me about a week to sort out everything again!
When you're following many different lines, as I am, organisation can be tricky, especially as the day job gets in the way :( I very often have to break off on an interesting line of enquiry about 10 minutes before I leave the house at mid-day to go to work.
One day, I'll get seriously organised, but I like the chase too much :)
Cheers, Ann.
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I gave up trying to use a family history program to drive my filing system vey early on and adopted the following system.
Each different surname from which my son is directly descended is allocated a letter. I am heading for trouble because I have used all the upper case and most of the lower case. Working backwards through time each person is allocated a number after that letter. I delay that untilI think I have the generation complete but can use another letter after the number to fill holes.
Thus I am A1, my wife B1 and my brother A2 and my father A3, my mother C1 etc.
Where I trace families each generation starts a level of subsection.
My son is thus A1.1 and my grandson A1.1.1. Complications like wives, second wives, step children etc are handled by adding an extra letter.
Thus my eldest son's wife is A1.1W and all her family would work back from there using the same rules.
Every piece of paper is indexed and filed with these numbers and unlinked information is filed under the letter with no number.
Well you did ask, and it is complicated but it does work and I have never in twenty years had to renumber except on the fringes where I am first establishing a generation.
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I don't use a data base any more. I found non researchers did not understand the printouts. I just use Word. I have a page for each person. Then I can send it out to anyone interested and put them all together in a book for relatives. I have trees in Word which can be extended when necessary.
I keep a paper file for each branch of the family. It takes up a lot of room and I'm thinking of gettig a cupboard to put them all in. Then I can shut the doors when anyone needs the bedroom for sleeping!
We have had this question several times before but I can't find the links. A search might turn them up.
Sylviaann
Sylviaann
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How this for recycling:
The envelopes that contain the certificates I have ordered from the GRO I reuse - one per surname to keep all certificates, printouts and other bits of paper in.
Kerry :) :) :)
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Here is one link
http://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php/topic,62980.0.html
Sylviaann
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I use exactly the same system as Sylviaann. Use WORD all the way - it's great for all the photos and graphics as well as telling the family stories.
I printed it all out once and I have what appears to be a family history book of (too many) pages and it actually looks like a "real" book as each person has their own story.
I then keep all my research in a separate folder for each family, then a plastic sleeve for each member of that family.
I would love to do a proper family tree - with little boxes etc but I think the 20ft long tree sounds like one may need a new house to show it off - or a VERY large wall.
Happy hunting
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:-[ I don't!! I'm afraid if I get too organise I'll never find anything. As it is I know where to find just what I want.....in a big box.... :D
I do use Family Historian on line and keep it up to date where it's easy to send to anyone that needs info on my tree..
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Organized? What's that? ;D
I started with my dad's paternal side. No problem - 1 3 ring binder, the big one. Then I moved on to my paternal great grandfather's wife's family. For this one, I made a labeled hanging folder and cleared an area in a file cabinet. That was 12 years ago.
Now, I am deeply involved in researching EVERY main branch of my father's family and my mother's family. This is at the bare minimum (!) a total of 12 names. That doesn't take into account other extended family names that have great bearing on the research.
What I did was allocate one filing cabinet strictly for family history. EACH family branch has a hanging file folder labeled with the surname. (In some cases, it's two folders which are labeled for example: QUINN - A QUINN - B.)
I also use the Legacy computer program. Slightly confusing until you learn it, but it works for me.
One burp in all of this was the day I received what I thought was going to be maybe 10 pages of family information. What I got instead was way over 100 pages of lineage, going back to 1435! It filled a 3 ring binder!
What I did with this was label the binder, put everything in there and it now sits directly behind the hanging folder in my cabinet.
That's my method. Not the greatest, but it works for me.
Patty
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Im still new to this so the wall does just fine at the moment. Keep making little charts and sticking them in the relevant places. Maybe I can convince the long suffering husband to buy me a program for christmas. Any suugestions for simple program for a computer moron?
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I don't do organisation very well - so I give most of the paperwork and certs to my Mum and she does it for me :D
Honest, it's a good idea as sometimes when she can't sleep she has a read and drags a memory up that she didn't even realise she had!
The other half of it is all over the computer desk and hubby says one day I will find it all in the bin. So I will read all your ideas carefully.
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Brilliant - so many different ideas, I just need the time to get started now!
I have trees in Word which can be extended when necessary.
Can I just ask how you make trees in word? Cheers!
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+ Grandfather
|
+----Father
| |
| + Grandmother
|
name
|
|
|
+----Mother
This is how I do a basic tree with word.
Sharon
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Yes like that
Main name = Wife
b. | b
d. | d
| m.
____________|___________
| | |
child1 child 2 child3
I tried to add a copy but can't will send a PM.
I then write a page for each family unit with BMD and census information addresses etc. Also anything happening in the world at the time. For instance my London family had The Big Stink, Mafeking was relieved, new housing built. This then is the basis for a book and can be understood by the family. You can add things as you find them
I prefer family history to just names.
Sylviaann
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Scattletrap
That is what I call a birth brief. Very useful for an overall picture of the family.
see an example here http://www.langhorns.co.uk/langhornline/birthbrief.html
Sylviaann
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I use Family Tree Maker as a main tool, as you can put everything there. But, just so I can get an overall look, I use not Word, but Excel. The sheets are all in an Excel Workbook, so I can put each branch of the tree into a connected page, linked by a hyperlink. The electronic Post it note is also helpful as I can make notes on each entry.
meles
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My problem is not so much storing information which is useful at the time, but keeping information which I cannot fit into my tree at the time, but may come in useful one day, especially from other contacts.
I want to keep contact names etc and their associated names but where??
Anyone got any ideas please let me know :-\
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Sylviaann
Thats excellent, was it also done on word or with some other program.
Sharon
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I use Roots Magic 2, which I think is great, having tried first Family Tree Maker and Personal Ancestral File. I especially like the fact that you can have separate data bases but can see two or more on the screen at the same time for comparison, so if someone sends me a ged.com I can check it out thoroughly before combining them. I also like the "To Do" feature as it reminds me what I need to check out.
So far as organising goes, I have four large lever arch files, one for each of our grandfather's names, using the acid free pockets to keep photographs, memoriam cards, newspaper cuttings etc., and another foolscap binder, again with acid free pockets, for storing certificates and Will copies.
I also have more lever arch files to keep information downloaded from the web, contacts from other people (e-mails etc), all sorted into alphabetical surnames. If I get too much on one name, I put a marker in the alphabetical stuff telling me to refer to a separate ring binder.
Works for me except I'm a bit lazy about printing the e-mails off and lost a load one time when the pc crashed. If anyone knows how to back up your "In box" please let me know.
Each to his own method though, whatever works for you.......
Glenys
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Hi May
Like you we gathered a huge range uf bits & pieces. Now we keep it in a big lever arcg file with dividers labelled for each family group. Several times that certificate from 6 months ago has turned out to be the one we were looking for all the time - but why did they change a child's name or give wrong ages on the census???
The ones which have no direct links we put all together at the back and trust to memory to find them later.
If, eventually you decide they are no longer relevant you could post them on ther appropriate thread elsewhere on the site. They may be just what someone else is looking for but doesn't have credits to download!
Russell
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Rachel,
Apologies to all but I can't believe that, in this day and age, anyone is not using one of the excellent genealogical computer programs which are available. Using Word, or Excel, or Access seems to me like re-inventing the wheel. Most genie programs are good, their developers have run across and tried to solve all the problems that you will surely run across yourself if you try to start from scratch, and the choice depends on what suits you (just as if you were buying a car). They range from free to various prices, and from very simple (i.e. fairly inflexible) to quite complex (i.e. very flexible and allowing you to choose your own way of doing things). Use a smallish sample of your people to try out some of the free ones, and to try out trial demos of others - you will soon see what you like, what you don't like, and what features you really want to have.
And back up, back up, back up your computer records ... (That is - do as I say, not as I do).
But it won't be a paperless office. You'll still have heaps of folders and piles of papers. And you'll probably change the way you organise them several times along the way.
And, even so, there will still be the situation where you just KNOW you have something relevant but can't put your hands on it!
JAP
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Works for me except I'm a bit lazy about printing the e-mails off and lost a load one time when the pc crashed. If anyone knows how to back up your "In box" please let me know.
Each to his own method though, whatever works for you.......
Glenys
Glenys,
As people have said on other threads - subscribe to a web-based email service like google mail (gmail) which is free, and forward all the emails you want to keep to that site. Then if your computer crashes, they will all be there, sitting on the remote server!
Trouble is, it takes a long time. I'm about half way through mine!
I'm planning to shout myself Reunion 8 for Macs in the new year. Trying to get some organisation into my disorganised family history records!
MarieC
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Hi Glenys :)
This is a link to a free program that will allow you to back up all your Outlook Express Folders, Inbox included and your address book.
www.oehelp.com/OEBackup/Default.aspx -
It backs them up to My Documents then when you back up your My Documents you also have all your mail stuff.
I use it all the time and twice it's saved me a lot of worry.
Merry Christmas
Cheers
Geoff ;D
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Hi Geoff,
Many thanks for the free programme link. I've downloaded but can't get it to open properly. Any suggestions? It tells me to select a back up file before proceeding but won't let me do this.
Glenys
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I started mine in Word 15 years ago when I wanted to send info out to rellies and there weren't many programmes about. I did put everything into Brothers Keeper but found the printouts especially the trees took up too many pages. I can control what goes on a page with word and it is all the basis for a book.
Each to his own. I'm not putting everything into a database now.
:) :)
Sylviaann
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Hi Jap
I myself collect just one the name.
some do not belong in my family tree but will do in the long run. do you or anyone knows of a family tree program that can store these names until I can connect them too the family.
Many thanks
Wellie
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Hello Wellie
I have done a couple of regional one name studies and found that the only system which would keep them in any kind of order was an Excel spreadsheet. You can make them as long and/or as wide as you wish yet its easy to pick out the info you want.
If you would like to see what I have done PM me with your e-mail address and I'll mail one back to you. The content would be no use to you its just the layout that matters.
Russell
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Hi Glenys,
Sounds like you haven't done the set up yet.
Go to where you saved the program and click on the "out exp.exe" icon.
That should set up the program and fix the problem.
Cheers
Geoff
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Hi Jap
I myself collect just one the name.
some do not belong in my family tree but will do in the long run. do you or anyone knows of a family tree program that can store these names until I can connect them too the family.
Many thanks
Wellie
Hi Wellie,
I use TMG (The Master Genealogist). It is very powerful and flexible - which admittedly means there is a longer learning curve than for many programs.
As it happens, I store all my information in the one data set (project) and do all my data entry there. At present I have about 12,500 'people' in that database.
Some people, however, prefer to have multiple data sets - either is possible in TMG.
Probably the best way for anyone to see what TMG can do (and whether it is a program with which they think they'll feel comfortable) is to take the Free Guided Tour at the Wholly Genes website at:
http://www.whollygenes.com/
JAP
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:) :) :) :)
Perhaps someone might start up a business helping to sort out papers/files/photo's/messages.
Something along the lines of "Research Busters"........
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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I posted a tip I found about using spreadsheets in the Common Room ..
Topic: Spreadsheets help track Surnames
http://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php/topic,31779.0.html
Maybe this will help,
Bob
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You all have inspired me. I have been overthinking how to organize things and I like the chaos route. It's been working for me for a while. ;D
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I am very proud of myself. I spent the past day and a half organizing, to a certain extent. I still like the controlled chaos theory, but I put a branch of my family in tree format in a Word document, have been looking over one of Russell's Excel spreadsheets to get ideas and have cleared out a file drawer and put all twelve of my surnames in separate hanging folders, along with a miscellaneous and a folder for blank forms. Let's see how long I keep it up. ;D
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Thank you all!
When retired,went on the hunt for solution to one name family mystery,not wanting to get too involved as not exactly computer adept.
Invaded all possible sites took ALL refs; I saw,pencilled,Biro'd,scratched in blood, ANYTHING that came up.
Result after 2 yrs work?Four dog eared notebook;s,just lying around originally,now using posh ring steno type.Shopping voucher's,etc;etc;whatever within reach!
ORGANISED?No,but loving it!!
Lucky me,Goggy. ;)
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Izabel
If you want to try a free programme for your family research then go to the 1881 census family search you can download a free one from there does everyhthing you want.
Sue.....
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Hi Sue, thanks for the info - where would I find the site? Izabel
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In the beginning, there was the word...and the word was that this family tree lark was easy and straightforward because all grandparents and locations were known and there was a very convenient overlap between the GRO records and the parish records. It was like picking cherries 8)
And then around 1700s I realised that in one of my trees my forebears may have gone in for some very subtle spelling variations...which I haven't got to the bottom of yet. And one of the trees is a relatively common name so it's not easy to be certain that the right missing link has been found ???
So to try to cope with these possibilities (and the difficulties caused by poor microfiche images) I now record in an exercise book the searches I have carried out in a particular parish and the results of those searches. If any of those results are/seem relevant to my tree I transfer them to my main file. If they are just possibles I highlight them in the exercise book
For some of the larger parishes I look at I compile an index to the register in the exercise book so that if I have to return for a second look I know exactly where to look.
So for me..at the present stage of things..it just boils down to a small exercise book per parish from which the main record is prepared as and when and if.... facts are proven
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I now have so much stuff that I thought I would work it on this basis
A card index for each family member with bare bones on it BMD Parents and Children
FTM for all files on line and to generate my tree
Ring Binder for each family line with all certs and census and "proof" materials.
Does that sound ok or am I making it over compicated for myself.
Thoughts please
Anna
Moderator Comment: Topics merged
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Wow Anna,
You sound so organised. Wish I could get to grips like that, but with over 3000 on my tree so far, and still growing I don't seem to get chance to file all my papers. ::) Mine are in a variety of filing trays. 'Doing, done & on-hold' could be the labels!!!
When you've got through cataloguing all yours fancy a little 'holiday' here to sort mine out? ;D ;D
Cheers,
Mark
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I have an old Family Tree Maker (1996). I would upgrade but it does everything I need.
I have 2 x 13-part and 2 x 6-part organisers for ancestors of my great grandparents (I needed more space!). I have a printout from FTM of the ancestors of each of the people the file is for. I have a section in each folder for each surname (well not all, just the ones I need space for) and for each of those I have a descendants tree.
I have notes taken from the IGI and censuses, BMDs in the appropriate section in the appropriate file.
I also have a certificate folder for the certificates I order (I guess that's stating the obivious). The certificates are ordered. That is until you get to the end where they're all put in together until I can be bothered to rearrange all of them into the right spaces!
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Wish I could be more organised. I have one folder on the chair, another on the table and paperwork shoved anywhere I can find a space!
Maybe reading through this thread will give me the encouragement I need to have a sort out. Infact I am going to start NOW
Sue B
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I'd suggest keeping almost everything on the computer alone. Obviously you'll want to keep original documents, but you could scan into your computer photocopies of certificates, photos, etc. You could then either chuck out all the non-original paper, or store it in boxes up in the loft for emergencies, if you don't trust the computer entirely.
There are many advantages of having it all on the computer - you can share it more easily, you can have it all on a laptop when you're on field trips, and you can have multiple indexes - alphabetically, chronologically, tree structure etc.
Of course, you then really have to think seriously about backups. Make frequent copies, and don't store them all in your house. Getting relatives or friends to keep copies would be ideal - offline (e.g. DVD) and on their computers (if it's only on computers it could be vulnerable in the case of a widespread virus attack).
Another thing to think about is how to ensure it gets passed on to future generations. If everything is on paper and takes up a lot of space, there's the risk of it being chucked out by some disinterested relative after we're dead and gone. And since copying thousands of sheets of paper is impractical, you're really putting all your eggs in one basket, hoping that the family member (and their descendants) who inherits the papers will look after them. With computerised copies, you can give all the family a copy.
It would be great if some government body (say, the National Archives) could promise to preserve such stuff, perhaps for a one-off payment. You could then specify that it not be open for public access for say 50 years after your death.
There was a discussion about organisation and methods for storing genealogical data a year or so ago:
http://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php/topic,22138.msg82605.html#msg82605
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I had all my stuff organised into individual manilla folders, lined up neatly on my desk. Then, one day, I left the study door open. My cat loves paper.
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I had all my stuff organised into individual manilla folders, lined up neatly on my desk. Then, one day, I left the study door open. My cat loves paper.
Ooops!!!!!!
I have everything in my PC - including scans of all certificates and documents - I use the Generations software which allows me to attach images to every person that I have added. I also have a filing system "of sort", made up of ring binders etc
Jan
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Good morning :)
This may ring a few bells with some of you but I am now at the stage where my information has grown to the point where I cannot pinpoint a "name" in my family tree without referring to the online tree I have a Genes Reunited!
I have four ring binders stuffed full of paperwork. Two divided into mother or father's side and then the other two ring binders are for the "main" name on each respective side.
As Christmas is a-coming I am thinking that perhaps it would be a good time to ask for a software programme as a pressie. But... WHICH ONE IS THE BEST? I'd be interested to know which programmes other Rootschat members use and would recommend to me. I'm not quite the numpty :P with the computer as I used to be but I would like a programme that is easy to navigate.
Your opinions and recommendations please. Thank you.
Jan :D
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Hi Jan
I use an old version of Family Tree Maker and find it perfectly adequate for creating family trees, which is all I use it for.
I keep my original research in individual A4 ring-binders: 1 each for parish records, census, burial records, newpaper extracts, etc. I also use commercially available storage binders for original certificates. For miscellaneous items such as letters, etc., I have A4 envelope folders for each family name. All of this, along with the boxes and albums of family photos, takes up a lot of room on the bookshelves!
I use a tailor-made database in MS Access to store all the data so that I can easily search on a selection of parameters. As I enter the data, I transfer the original transcripts to a separate binder, but I never destroy the original transcripts!
I then write up everything I find in narrative form in MS Word, with a separate file for each surname and sections for each individual, detailing all I know about them from birth to death.
Old family photos are scanned and stored on the computer.
Of course, everything on the computer has to be backed up regularly and, periodically, printed out to ensure that it can always be accessed, even if you have a total computer failure!
Regards, Bill
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There's been lots of threads on this subject - see http://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php/topic,158637.msg737959.html#msg737959
or you can read comparions of software here:
http://genealogy-software-review.toptenreviews.com/
Personally, I am a convert to Family Historian. http://www.family-historian.co.uk/ (http://www.family-historian.co.uk/) It imports complete gedcoms, and you can get an add-on to attach census images. There's also a lively user forum http://www.fhug.org.uk/cgi-bin/index.cgi
JULIAN
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My paperwork is pretty disorganised right now, but I plan to keep it in different files in a filing cabinet drawer, a file fo reach family or significant breakdown. Haven't completely decided on what yet.
For special topics like my grandfathers sailing career I will need a separate folder for instance.
I use Legacy Family Tree, and I suppose other packages are the same in that they assign a record number to each person. I am going to use that in my paper filing so that I can link between the computer and the paper files more easily. That becomes far more important as the number of people increases.
Paper filing is good up to a point, but then I think a good database is essential, or some spreadsheets (if you have Excel).
One other thing I find useful, I installed a PDF creator, so that I can print to a PDF file and create a PDF (Adobe Acrobat Reader) document for any print that I do. It's great for saving copies of any web page or web search for example. You don't just have to have a paper copy of everything.
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Good morning :)
This may ring a few bells with some of you but I am now at the stage where my information has grown to the point where I cannot pinpoint a "name" in my family tree without referring to the online tree I have a Genes Reunited!
I have four ring binders stuffed full of paperwork. Two divided into mother or father's side and then the other two ring binders are for the "main" name on each respective side.
As Christmas is a-coming I am thinking that perhaps it would be a good time to ask for a software programme as a pressie. But... WHICH ONE IS THE BEST? I'd be interested to know which programmes other Rootschat members use and would recommend to me. I'm not quite the numpty :P with the computer as I used to be but I would like a programme that is easy to navigate.
Your opinions and recommendations please. Thank you.
Jan :D
Why Rootsmagic of course, a really easy progamme to use
Coppernob
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Sharon & Sylviaann:
Thank you for the tips re. layouts in Word. I have asked my doctor to refer me to a specialist for genetic testing and she told me to first do a family tree showing everyone who has had cancer. I've been puzzling over how to do that in an easy-to-read and easy-to-fax format and I believe you've solved my dilemma.
Thanks so much & Happy New Year!
Regards,
Josephine
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I use Reunion 8 for the Mac. It's pretty good although it doesn't have some of the bells and whistles I've read that some other programs have.
I had tried to keep track of my family history data in Word documents but it became too hard to use after the tree grew to a certain size. (And mine isn't that big, compared to so many others!)
Now I find the genealogy program indispensible because it is much easier to go to the index, click on a name, and check the entry for that person to see what information I have and what I still need to find. I use the "Notes" section to remind myself of where I've already looked for data (for example, "baptism not found at...").
I like to print out the documents I have for each family and person. I put those in binders along with "Family Group Reports" and "Person Sheets".
It took a long time to figure out how to organize the information in the binders but I've settled on a way that works well for me.
I keep original, official documents in plastic file folder cases. I separate them by surname but it's a bit lumpy and messy that way. If I had a big enough filing cabinet, I would file them by the person's full name.
Regards,
Josephine
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Hi All,
I thought I was totally disorganised, but I seem to be efficiant compared to some of you !!! Maybe I just haven't as much stuff.
I started off with Family Tree Maker a few years ago, but when I found the LDS Paf 5 system, I have never looked back. I keep all my infomation on the computer, backed up regularly on disc and even a disc at my mums in case the house burns down!!!
But I have a paper copy of all thats on the Paf File. Thats divided between 4 ring binders, one each for my mum and dad's family and one each for my husband's mum and dad. Some thicker than others. I don't print out a new page everytime I add more info to the computer, but writeit on my page and print out a new one when it looks messy. Certificates, photos and census images are all in the files. Makes it more interesting for any of the family who wants to look at the books.
But, like another lister, I also print out any infomation I get via emails, etc. When the info is added to my computer and files, it is then kept in another larger file, alphabetically, by surname. I do often have a pile of papers waiting to be filed, but there not taking over yet!
Gill
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I started research almost 35 years ago, inheriting a large collection of information from my father's mother and other relatives. When I got a computer I started using Framily Tree Maker but soon found it did not print out family trees that I could organise the way I wanted.
Now, I use Word to type information so it can easily be sent to others and even with a few changes be used as a questionnaire. Files are backed up regularly. Printed version kept in clear pockets in ring binders. If I get new information, or want to remember to check something, I put a note inside the clear pocket. Then, when I open the file, I type the new information and print it out when needed.
In large filing cabinets I keep letters and documents filed by surname.
When out doing research- libraries, graveyards, etc.- I use notebooks to record data which is then transferred. My husband keeps his own research notebooks and also has filing drawers for 5 x 8 index cards, indexed by surname then townland (his research only covers Ireland, while mine is spread in various countries).
However, I have to confess that I still have lots of paperwork to file. Husband is giving me a new computer for birthday/Christmas present so I will have to get the office cleaned up before then!
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I started off with Family Tree Maker a few years ago, but when I found the LDS Paf 5 system, I have never looked back.
Could someone tell me what LDS Paf 5 system is please, I have been reading the messages re organizing research. I don't have mine on computer since mine crashed a couple of years ago, prior to that I used a free disk I got with a family history magazine - but didn't like the printed format, although it looked good on screen. I keep all my research in folders under surnames, and as I come up with new information I share it with my daughter - she keeps asking me to do a tree that she can keep for my grandchildren. I too would like advice on computerising my records.
Jukebox
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Just a small idea.
I bought some charts, because I wanted to see all the connections between each family.
I found the charts from, www.genealogyprinters.com quite useful.
Red :)
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Could someone tell me what LDS Paf 5 system is please,
Sorry, Jukebox , we've overlooked your request. PAF stands for Personal ancestral File, and it is a free family history/genealogy program available from the Mormon Church via the FamilySearch site.
http://www.rootschat.com/links/012o/
It is a good program, but inevitably geared to the needs of mormons eg life events expressed in mormon terms. But that's no barrier to others using it.
Of course you don't get some of the bells and whistles you get with other, commercial programmes, but (if i recall) it will generate web pages and other reports quite comfortably
Hope this answers your question
JULIAN.
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Thanks for the infor Julian, will have a look on the website and try downloading it.
Jukebox
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I have two organizational questions:
One, within surname files, do you divide and organize information? Some of my files are so large, and I go looking for a birth cert or census record or some such and it takes a while. I was wondering if it would actually be worth organizing further, or is that just a little too over the top.
Secondly, how does one keep straight contacts they have made. I do searches all the time and am contacting people often, and sometimes I find myself contacting the same person, maybe after six months or even a couple years. What would be the best way to keep track of that kind of information? I have tried a journal, but that is tough to look back through.
Kath
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Kath
To answer your second query. I have within my Microsoft Outlook a folder called Family History and then surnames matching those on my tree. All contact emails go into those folders to be saved. I flag the ones where I have promised or would be sensible to share info and periodically do a check. Not ideal but worked so far.
Kerry
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I am a paper file, and ring folder I'm afraid. I keep census's together as families, paper files in families, separate files for BMD in family and chronological order.
I also reuse the certificate envelopes for odd and ends of printed info, photo's etc
I have Family Tree Maker, still not got around to putting the info in though, desperately need a spare room for my "office" ;D
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"...within surname files, do you divide and organize information? Some of my files are so large, and I go looking for a birth cert or census record or some such and it takes a while. I was wondering if it would actually be worth organizing further, or is that just a little too over the top."
Kath,
I think the key is to do what works best for you.
I had files set up like that but it was too messy for me. Now I have binders set up and files just for original, official documents.
My binders are broken down by family as follows:
Beaumont Binder #1
Divider #1 (yellow) - The first couple & their records. (Generation 1: John Beaumont & Sarah Simmons)
Divider #2 - (orange) The first child, spouse, etc. (Generation 2: John George Beaumont & Lavinia Emma Crayford)
Within Section #2 (still orange) - Each child for whom I have documentation in birth order. (Generation 3: John George Beaumont Jr.)
Within Section #2 (green) - Any children of the Generation 2 folks (behind their own parents).
And so on.
This makes it easy for me to flip through the binders to find the children of so-and-so and see what I've got so far. By now I have so many names (for me, not compared to a lot of other people, LOL) that sometimes I have to look at my genealogy database to find out who so-and-so's parents were so I know which binder to grab. I have three 3-inch binders holding my Beaumont documents. But that includes all the binder dividers and person sheets and family group sheets! :)
I really like this system. It's the easiest way for me to store and retrieve paperwork and it's the most logical way I could devise to organize the information so my family members could follow it, too (I like to give binders of documents to family members).
I know this is about binders but it might apply to folders, too.
Regards,
Josephine
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I also have lots of information in binders (over 55 doing a quick count from my desk). Have three old pine wardrobes converted into bookcases. On the shelves are books, sorted by category, and ring binders. Binders are different colours according to contents- blue= census records, yellow= church records (local church records indexed by surname), black= photographs & graveyards, orange & purple= related families of my husband and I, silver (6)= files on misc. local families I've researched, lime green= Griffith's valuation (for 4 local parishes), dark green= school registers, voting lists, local landlords' records, etc. Last of all is a thick blue binder labelled 'Herd Book' with misc. family trees (where there's not enough information to be typed and filed in binder).
Also have 2 large filing cabinets for correspondence and original documents.
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Oh my gosh, aghadowey, you have a lot of data! Amazing!
You inspired me to count my binders: much to my surprise, I have 29 binders of varying sizes.
Regards,
Josephine
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You inspired me to count my binders: much to my surprise, I have 29 binders of varying sizes.
Do I feel a Lighter Side thread coming on - Have you got more than 55 binders?
JULIAN
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"Do I feel a Lighter Side thread coming on - Have you got more than 55 binders?"
LOL, Julian, please post a link if one is started!
Regards,
Josephine
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So I have a dumb question for those who use binders: Do you use pockets in the binders or hole-punch the records?
Kath
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Kath,
I hole-punch them but I never put original, official documents in binders: I only put photocopies of those in binders.
This is what I put in binders, organized by family group:
- census records
- parish records that I've found online at Medway Ancestors (baptisms, marriages & a few burials)
- photocopies of official documents that I've paid big bucks for (birth, death and marriage certificates)
- family group sheets and person sheets generated by my genealogy software program
- correspondence (but I'm lazy about printing it out)
I would never punch holes in something for which I've paid between five and thirty dollars!
Regards,
Josephine
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Izabel
If you want to try a free programme for your family research then go to the 1881 census family search you can download a free one from there does everyhthing you want.
Sue.....
Sue
could you elaborate please step by step just for me !!!!
Erin ::)
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His name's not Sue, but he answered the same question on another topic:
Hi Lemars
There is always PAF (Personal Ancestry File) from the LDS.
As it is free you have nothing to lose by trying it out. It has a lot of useful features such as printing a book-style report. However, you will need to obtain their color chart printing software which as an add-on package. Details from: http://www.familysearch.org/ and scroll down the yellow column at the bottom right hand corner of the screen.
Also note that you can create a website with this software, which is useful for storing your data offsite. That way you do not need to worry about whether your backups work in future.
downside
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Kath- I use clear pockets for family trees which I've printed out, etc. and if get new information, have a query or want to check something at a later date I stick a note in the clear pocket with information for that family/person.
One problem with ring binders is that some of my information from US and Canada comes on different size paper. If I can't trim pages down to fit in clear pockets I put them into filing cabinet.
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I think I am leaning toward ring binders. This sounds very handy. I like the color-coded aspect also. That makes things very visible. I think a binder for each surname will be the route I will try, with the clear pockets. Ah, hubby is going to love this. :) Now I really need to get the bookshelves built in my office.
Thanks everyone. :D
Kath
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His name's not Sue, but he answered the same question on another topic:
Thanks done it
looks like a lot of concentration is ahead !!!!
Erin ::)
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Hiya all
I use Family Tree Maker 2005 for my lot and find it quite simple to use (have been warned against later versions). There is an external hardrive attached to my compter which is set to back up everything daily so if the computer goes belly up I just plug it into the new one and there it is.
Dont forget any computer program can be converted to a GEDCOM file which you can then export to somewhere like Ancestry or GenesReunited and then if ever your computer packs up (or your house burns down) you can import it back off that site. If you don't update it regularly it will be out of date but its better than starting from scratch. Also if you use Ancestry you can attach census to the relevant person on their site
Certificates all get scanned in and attached to the relevant person and the originals are all kept in plastic pockets (so much easier to reorganise) in a large ring binder - cant say I really have them in any order but at least they are all in one place (am in the process of making them a bit more logical)
When I visit the archives notes are all written in a large notebook and if I write down anything at any other times on scraps of paper I keep them all in the one tray and then transfer them to the note book
Must admit I have a drawer which has a load of odd papers and bits and pieces in it that need sorting but I have just brought a couple of multi pocket folders to put this stuff in
Willow x
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I use brothers keeper you can download a copy to try it.I get on with it because it prints out good charts.i print out my chart(4 generations) and mark each person I have birth wed and death cersts for onto it in pink green and black so that I can see right away who I have certs for.the certificates themselves are kept in 4 ring binders.one birth one wed one death.BUT the problem I have is how do I sort the paperwork out (wich is in other 4 ring binders)there is a mass of it.I am hopless at geting it in some sort of order.the very idea gives me the shakes.and so i put it off.truble is the files are geting that fat soon I will not be able to close them. :o :o :o :o :o
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I maybe just very mundane but I put my tree on tribalpages,completely free to use,can leave open or private,I leave mine open so that others searching can see it,if i find a family member,i get them to put pictures on ,i never put liveing people on,if i can help it but those that are ,are kept private,also,i also have it on GenesReunited but not as much and also keep details in ring binders.
joyce
http://www.tribalpages.com/tribes/j111048
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Lol yes forgot to say I have a tribalpages site too - really good free site
http://hiltonfamilytree.tribalpages.com/
Willow x
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Hi Willow,
we could be related,LOL had a look at your tree,Hickmans in Stourbridge,My line is William born 1848 but in 1881 census,his Three brothers were in the Area,James ,Charles and Josephs line.my great gran is there also,Agnes Hickman and my Great Uncle Henry Hickman,
James=Jane Webb
Charles=Sarah Corbett
Joseph =Emma Sant
Henry=Elizabeth Jervis.
take care
Joyce,nee Hickman,LOL
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i print out my chart(4 generations) and mark each person I have birth wed and death cersts for onto it in pink green and black so that I can see right away who I have certs for.
That's a great idea!
Regards,
Josephine
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Like many respondents here, I have masses of paper. BMD certs, downloads from GR contacts, in various forms etc.
The majority have been scanned OR entered into my Familyhistorian [programme , The latter enables me to highlight any individual as root and see their relationship to any other of the 4,000 odd relations.and i save absolutely everything onto an external Hard disc.
That still leaves the problem of where/how yo store or collate the hard copy, and make it easy to find??BMD certs in a couple of dedicated folders
My problem is the I have got saved notes...which should be sorted, but the thought is daunting
The thought of having to sort through nearly 20 years of research IS more than offputtting!!
Spring
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The thought of having to sort through nearly 20 years of research IS more than offputtting!!
Spring
Exactly my sentiments Spring. Good Luck !!!
Erin ::)
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Hiya Joyce
The Hickmans in my tree are connected to my other halfs line if you do find George anywhere in yours let me know ;D
Willow x
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The thought of having to sort through nearly 20 years of research IS more than offputtting!!
Spring
I think that this is a very good pointer for people new to the hobby. If you do nothing else sort out a filing system for your notes a soon as possible. Something nice and easy to start with like by earliest date within surname.
David
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If you have 20 years of research to sort through, start small, but I recommend doing it. I always find something new when sort through my research. Could crack a brickwall.
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Hi Willow,
I have georges in my tree,there are" The Hickmans from Gornal and Sedgely,"not my lines,then The Kingswinford,Walls heath etc ones(Stourbridge)
Bearing in mind that there were four brothers,Three in Stourbridge area in 1881 plus Henry,s line (my great uncle)he only had one son but a lot of grandchildren,the odds are pretty high that these are related,but would have to go back from your line to establish or not as I only have children apart from a few these are 1880,s,I go back earlier to 1700,s but not later.
Joyce
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Hi
New Years Eve 2008 saw me totally disorganised, sitting in the kitchen in tears because I couldn't find some notes that I had made a couple of years ago whilst in Cumberland. I knew they were there somewhere, but where was the big question.
My hubby who is absolutely wonderful but not interested in my research sat me down and listened to all my woes without saying a word. He then got up and started to move all the furniture around in the conservatory. Wondering what he was doing, I got up to investigate and he told me that he was moving all my tools and research into there to give me a base, this included moving my computer, printer, books etc and all my paperwork from three different rooms into one.
As for the paperwork it was all in four big boxes, scraps of paper, certificates etc etc all mixed together, even my computer files were all over the place.
When we had everything in place, with the boxes just outside the door, he sat me down at the computer and we went onto Google searching for organisational ideas.
I have five years solid research, along with notes going back to my childhood when I first wanted to do it, the big question was, where the heck do I start.
I looked at many different idea's but the one that seemed the best was at:
http://www.dearmyrtle.com
She is doing the organisation, month by month, ie a little by little, which definitely appealed to me and it grows with you.
She sends them out in the first couple of days at the beginning of the month and so you don't feel overwhelmed, the first one is at:
http://www.dearmyrtle.com/09/JanuaryOrganizationChecklist.pdf
One of the good things about it is, it dosen't cost a lot, which is a major consideration, as I would rather spend my money on certificates etc.
I still have a long way to go but I am getting there, and staying there. Hubby has not allowed me to move any of the boxes into the conservatory, I have to take one piece of paper out at a time and put it in the relevant file, before I get the next one out. Yes it is slow but after so long of being overwhelmed I now feel in control, which is a wonderful feeling.
The fact that my other half is normally even more disorganised than me, shook me more than anything and I will be blowed if I am going to 'fail'
I hope this helps.
Regards
Half Pint
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Half Pint - yes, that really DID help!
I have not looked at Dear Myrtle for years, but the Jan/Feb/March checklists have rather inspired me - to get filing!
What she says is all really simple, but I bought some more files today, and ordered some archive quality pockets. I hope to have organised the piles in my bedroom by the time they arrive.
Thanks for a great post.
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Half Pint your husband sounds wonderful, you could bottle him and sell him ;D
I have recently finished my paper filing at last into nice neat folders and separate folders for all my certificates. Now I just need to keep on top of it as I download and print out stuff week by week.
The next thing I need to tackle is my electronic files because I have saved emails etc with information that I need on my tree in order to actually help the tree rather than just being stored and unread. ::)
Kerry
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Genes Reunited free family tree software (380 names so far).
BDM Certs etc in Lever Arch-File sub-divided for paternal and maternal Surnames. BDM sub-divided from censuses & other paperwork such as medal records & Newspaper clippings.
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not a lot to add to what people have said or the way they do things, as you have to do it the way
YOU understand and know where everything thing is,
HAVING SAID THAT, you have to remember one day we will no longer be here,
and someone else has to understand it easily, bits of paper/notes are all well and good but others may see it as rubbish and it could end up in the bin and your years of research a complete waste,
in files/folders books and make it personal and your kin would be loathe to throw such history away,
imagine if you had such things from your departed relatives and how much they would mean, just my own personal thoughts, but if you can make it so it CAN'T be thrown away ;)
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Hi, I have been on the geni trail for 8 weeks now and store every thing in WINDOWS PAINT .Ant thing that is displayed on your PC screen can be saved by hitting the PRINT SCREEN Sys Rq key on your keyboard.You then open a program you can work on (I yous PAINT),then I select EDIT then select PASTE.
WHAT WAS SHOWN ON YOUR SCREEN IS NOW SHOWN ON THE PAINT PAGE. From there you can edit it to your hearts content and save it in MY PICTURES.
I have two folders for each family name ,the possibles and the maybees.
Save these at the end of the week to CD and you will always have your work.
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not a lot to add to what people have said or the way they do things, as you have to do it the way
YOU understand and know where everything thing is,
HAVING SAID THAT, you have to remember one day we will no longer be here,
and someone else has to understand it easily, bits of paper/notes are all well and good but others may see it as rubbish and it could end up in the bin and your years of research a complete waste,
in files/folders books and make it personal and your kin would be loathe to throw such history away,
imagine if you had such things from your departed relatives and how much they would mean, just my own personal thoughts, but if you can make it so it CAN'T be thrown away.
Possibly one of the best pieces of advice ever.
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How very true!
Have finally got my finger out and started filing everything in binders with LOTS of indexes hopefully they will read like books one for each parents/grandparents line containing trees, certificates and census
Willow x
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Must be something in the air Willow! I was given a A3 folder for various military etc printouts and papers from TNA for my birthday in February.
I finally got around to filling it at the weekend!!!!! ::) I can actually now see and read my papers.
Kerry
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Yes have actually had fun making up the indexes but have also discovered how many certificate I am missing and seem to have lost my Ggrandfathers marriage certificate and GGgrandfathers birth certificate ::)
Willow x
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Halpint. it looks like your going to sort it all out,and get every thing in order.when you have.can you make a start on mine.edd. ::)
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Found GGgrandfathers birth certificate still missing Ggrandfathers marriage certificate
Only things I recommend to anyone is to make a note of GRO references year/quarter/area/number, where you found any information/websites and census references you would be amazed how often you cant find them again
I'm only indexing the main ancestors and Ive been using word with a table for the layout one per couple and at the moment I've only gone as far as ancestors I can supply certificate/census print outs for I will look at another format for earlier information once I get this sorted
Found out I still need over 100 certificates to complete it though :o
If anyone wants a copy of my Indexs to see if it helps them (and you have Word) PM me and I will e-mail them to you
Willow x
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Only things I recommend to anyone is to make a note of GRO references year/quarter/area/number,
for GRO Refs, I have three thick(200 pages) hard-back copybooks, one each for births, marriages, deaths ..
(3 is enough for Irish records, I find)
I allow 2 facing pages for each year "my" page on the right and OHs on the left.
after a few years, they do get a bit messy, I admit, but I've only had to copy them out once
regards eadaoin
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Yes guess who forgot to do this when she started ;D
Willow x