Mormon genealogy has been a tremendous benefit to anyone that is trying to do free ancestry research. The Mormon Church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints – LDS) is known for their extensive collection of genealogy history records. Generally, Church members are encouraged to trace their ancestors and perform ceremonies to carry out proxy baptisms in their names. (This may be an over simplification of the Church’s role.) However, for us this provides websites and valuable tree search tools that we are free to use to uncover life and death records for our ancestors.
To take advantage of the free LDS tree databases merely access the FamilySearch websites and enter the information in the "Search for your ancestors" windows. You can enter the first and last name, choose from any important life event, (ie. birth, marriage, death, etc.) or select all, and enter the year you want to search. The date box allows you to give a date range for the date records you are requesting.
The websites also provides an "Advanced search" selection box that takes you to a more robust search screen. This free search provides far more options for you to include, like parents, grandparents and spouse. You can elect to search based on exact spelling or allow the system to substitute similar sounding names. Don't select "Use exact spelling" in your initial searches.
The search will scan the Church's huge genealogy record collection for free. Assuming that your search yields some results you can identify the names of potential family members including specifics about their life and death particulars. The results will also show a Pedigree Resource File number. This file is a lineage-linked database of records submitted by individuals through FamilySearch Internet Genealogy Service. Select an appropriate name and the system will display more details about the requested information. You can confirm whether the subject birth and death dates tie into your family or not. The system displays a Compact Disk # as well as a PIN # (Persons ID Number). The search also provides you the opportunity to order the Compact Disk from their websites so you can find out more information and their sources.
