There is a spirit of genealogy that mysteriously drives millions of people - both young and old to trace their ancestry. Genealogy research is a painstaking process that requires patience, diligence, observation skills, and the inquisitiveness of a private detective.

Now your quest for your ancestors just got easier. FamilySearch Internet (www.familysearch.com) allows you to search census records, court and legal records, cultural and religious groups, family histories, other genealogy sites, land and property records, libraries, military records, and many more resources.

The site allows you to collaborate with others, preserve your genealogy, or download software for managing your family history.

Collaborating with Others

You can collaborate with others by joining the site's discussion list. You can also submit your family history to the site's records so that other people can benefit from your findings as you benefit from theirs.

Preserving Your Genealogy

Genealogy submitted to FamilySearch Internet will be preserved at the Granite Mountain Records Vault, located near Salt Lake City, Utah. Your genealogy will also be preserved in FamilySearch databases that will be publicly available on compact disc or at the site.

In order to submit your family history for preservation, you must have it stored in a GEDCOM file. Most genealogical computer programs will save records in this universal exchange format.

Software Tools

Personal Ancestry File (PAF) 4.0 is available for free download for a limited time. According to the description on the site, "Personal Ancestral File 4.0 is a new Windows® based version of one of the most widely-used genealogical management programs for home computers. PAF 4.0 does not provide genealogical data. Instead, its program helps users organize their family history records. It can produce, in automated or manual form, records for personal family histories or charts and logs to help users in their search for missing ancestors.'

PAF allows you to easily input your family history in a graphical, user-friendly interface. For each individual, you can add photos, sound recordings, video clips and notes. It creates slide shows and scrapbooks. You can print your records in book form or in a variety of genealogical forms and reports.

PAF 4.0 requires Windows 95/98/NT, IBM compatible 486/66 processor (Pentium recommended) 16 to 32 MB memory 20 MB hard disk space.

If you are into genealogy or have always meant to learn more about it, PAF 4.0 for Windows is a must-have for you.

Marnie Pehrson, a mother of 6, has been highlighting truth and talent for 15 years. Whether it's writing a novel that spotlights individuals who've made a difference in the world or helping a talented entrepreneur create a platform for his life's work, Marnie underscores truth and talent in innovative and compelling ways. She is the creator of www.IdeaMarketers.com and helps experts promote their products and services online. For more information on her various projects and books, visit http://www.pwgroup.com. Contact the author, Marnie Pehrson , at iacp@pwgroup.com
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