genealogy form, genealogy worksheet, pedigree chart, family group, family history, research

Research Tools & Tips

At the Topeka Genealogical Society, our primary mission is to provide support, assistance and encouragement to individuals who are interested in researching their family history. The items described below are all downloadable, and are offered to help you be a successful family history researcher.
 
Research Guides:
 
10 Ways to Preserve Your Family History:  Even for those that don't wish to become genealogy researchers, there are simple steps that can be taken to make sure that family heritage and stories are preserved for future generations instead of being lost.
 
Getting Started in Family History:   A short, step-by-step outline for how to research your family history.
 
Watch our Family History 101 Video:  Finding Your Family's Roots:
 
 
 
 
Midwest Genealogy Center's Getting Started helps - free guidance and materials from the Midwest Genealogy Center in Independence, MO.
 
Getting Started tips from the National Genealogical Society - more free tips and learning materials from NGS 
 
Guide to Researching in Shawnee County:   This brief document describes the location and content of frequently-searched records of genealogical interest in Shawnee County, Kansas. 
 
Genealogy Forms & Worksheets:
 
Pedigree Chart - Use this chart to record your direct-line ancestors.
 
Family Group Sheet -  Complete one of these worksheets for each family unit (husband, wife and their children).  
 
Family Record Sheet - This form is a hybrid, with a small pedigree chart and the family group sheet content.
 
Individual Timeline -  Use this worksheet to record all know events that occurred during and individual's lifetime (starting with birth, ending with death), in chronological order. This is helpful in identifying gaps or inconsistencies in research data.
 
Individual Data Sheet -  Use this worksheet to record and summarize key facts about an individual.  It may be helpful in keeping information organized, and in identifying gaps that need further research.