How to Record Ancestry
You can begin the process of recording your ancestry by preparing a pedigree chart. This is a chart that lists your direct ancestors, such as parents, grandparents and great-grandparents. This information can be entered into a genealogy software program. You can also download and print free blank pedigree charts online, or you can create your own pedigree chart, on a blank piece of paper. Either way, the pedigree chart needs to be constructed according to a particular format.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
A standard pedigree chart will be divided into columns, with each column representing a generation. Since it is your pedigree chart, and you are recording your ancestry, you will be the starting person. Write your full name in the far left column of the pedigree chart, halfway down the sheet.
-
2
Include your date and place of birth and marriage under your name.
-
-
3
Write the name of your spouse directly below your information, and make a note that he or she is your spouse.
-
4
Write your father's name, date and place of birth, marriage and death (if applicable) in the column directly to the right of the column where your name is listed. Place this information at the top of the column.
-
5
Below your father's name and information, include your mother's name, date and place of birth, marriage and death (if applicable) in the same column. In all columns, the father's name should always be listed above the mother's name.
-
6
Enter your paternal grandfather's name, date and place of birth, marriage and death in the column to the right of your parents'. Place this information so that it is just above your father's name and information.
-
7
Directly below your paternal grandfather's name and information, enter your paternal grandmother's name, date and place of birth, marriage and death, in the same column.
-
8
Enter your maternal grandfather's name, date and place of birth, marriage and death in the same column as your paternal grandparents, placing it towards the bottom, so that it is slightly below your mother's information.
-
9
Enter your maternal grandmother's name, date and place of birth, marriage and death below your maternal grandfather's information.
-
10
Continue adding the information of each of your ancestors' parents (including the date and place of birth, marriage and death) in the column to the right of their names, making sure that the father's name always goes above the mother's. Each column will represent a generation.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
You can also find pedigree charts that are formatted in other styles and ways.
