Do you find yourself curious about your ancestors, their stories, and your family’s heritage? Genealogy, the study of family history and lineage, has become increasingly popular as people seek to learn more about their roots and discover the stories of their ancestors. Fortunately, there are many resources for genealogists to utilise, and many of them are available for free! In this blog, we’ll explore the top free genealogy resources that can help you unlock your family history.

FreeBMD

If you’re looking for birth, marriage, and death records, FreeBMD is a fantastic resource. This project aims to transcribe the indexes of civil registration for England and Wales from 1837 to 1983, making them freely searchable online. With FreeBMD, you can access millions of records that can help you trace your ancestors and fill in missing pieces of your family tree.

You can visit the FreeBMD website here.

FreeCEN

FreeCEN is a genealogy project that aims to provide free access to transcriptions of UK records online. The project focuses on transcribing and indexing historical census records from England, Wales, and Scotland, making them available for genealogical research without charge.

You can visit the FreeCEN website here.

FreeREG

If you’re researching your English ancestors, FreeREG is a valuable resource. This project aims to transcribe and make freely accessible the registers of baptism, marriage, and burial records from parishes across England. With over 40 million records available, FreeREG can be a goldmine for genealogists looking to trace their English roots. The website offers a user-friendly search interface and allows you to download and view original register entries, providing valuable insights into your ancestors’ lives.

You can visit the FreeREG website here.

The National Archives

The National Archives, based in Kew, London, is a treasure trove of historical documents and records that can be helpful for genealogical research. Their website offers free access to a wealth of resources, including census records, military service records, wills, and much more. You can search their extensive collection online, and many of the documents can be downloaded for free. The National Archives also offers helpful guides and tutorials to assist you in your family research.

You can visit The National Archives website here.

FamilySearch

FamilySearch is a genealogy website operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and is one of the largest and most comprehensive free genealogy resources available. Their online database includes billions of records from all over the world. FamilySearch offers access to birth, marriage, and death records, census records, parish registers, and much more. You can also collaborate with other researchers, access their extensive library of digitised books, and use their powerful search tools to explore your family history.

Online Forums and Communities

Another excellent resource for genealogy research is online forums and communities. Websites such as RootsChat and Genes Reunited provide platforms for genealogists to connect, share information, and collaborate on their research. You can find threads dedicated to specific surnames, regions, or topics related to genealogy, and fellow researchers may be able to provide valuable insights, tips, and even share records or documents that they have found. Participating in online forums and communities can be a great way to expand your network of fellow genealogists and learn from their expertise.

Local Family History Societies

Local Family History Societies are volunteer-led organisations that are dedicated to preserving and promoting local genealogical resources. These societies are often based in specific regions or localities across the UK and can be a valuable source of information and support for genealogists. They may have their own databases, transcriptions, and indexes of local records, as well as access to resources that may not be available elsewhere. Many local family history societies also organise events, workshops, and talks related to genealogy, providing opportunities for learning and networking with fellow researchers.

Find A Grave

Find A Grave is a database of cemetery records and images. It contains millions of entries from around the world, making it a valuable resource for genealogy researchers. Users can search gravesites by name, location, or cemetery. The site also allows users to create virtual memorials for their ancestors and add photographers and biographical information.

You can visit the Find A Grave website here.

Local Archives and Libraries

Local archives and libraries can be a goldmine of genealogical information. Many local archives and libraries hold historical records such as parish registers, electoral rolls, local newspapers, and other documents that can help you uncover your family history. These resources are often available for free or at a minimal cost, and they can provide valuable insights into your ancestors’ lives and the communities they lived in. Visiting your local archive or library in person or checking their online catalogs can be a great way to access unique and localised genealogical records.

Ellis Island

Ellis Island is a free online database of immigration records from 1892 to 1924. It contains over 22 million passenger records, including ship manifests, passenger lists, and immigration forms. Users can search for their ancestors by name, date of arrival, or ship name. The site also provides helpful information on immigration history and research.

You can visit the Ellis Island website here.

Honourable Mentions

• Cyndi’s List
• British Newspaper Archive
• The National Library of Scotland
• General Register Office for Scotland
• National Library of Wales

In conclusion, there are many free genealogy resources available that can be used to trace your family history and uncover your ancestors’ stories. From national archives and online databases to local archives and online communities, there are numerous avenues to explore which provide a wealth of information to preserve your legacy for future generations. So, roll up your sleeves, dig into the past, and unlock the mysteries of your family history with these top free genealogy resources! Happy researching!