Who's your great-great grandmama? Most of us haven't a clue, but thanks to Alex Haley's Roots and other influences, a lot of us want to find out whether our ancestors were aristocrats, common folk, or outright cads and bounders. This three-video set combines a live seminar, taught by experts Gordon and Carolyn Casper, with a hands-on demonstration of one young man's search for his roots using the research tools now available. Part 1 covers home sources (family bibles, letters, diaries, etc.), using the Family Search computer system with the Ancestral File and the International Genealogical Index (developed by the Mormon church). The program also emphasizes the importance of proper record keeping detailing one's genealogical search. Part 2 looks at researching original sources, including the census records, and Part 3 shows viewers how to access land, military, and vital records. While the talking head format makes this a less than optimal video series, the information will be very useful to those compiling family trees. Recommended, with reservations. Those looking for a more general introduction would be better served by Out of Your Tree: Crazy About Genealogy (VL-5/94). (R. Pitman)
The Genealogist's Video Research Guide
(1994) 3 videocassettes, 53-71 min. each. $19.95 each part. Video Knowledge (dist. by Tapeworm Video). Color cover. Vol. 10, Issue 6
The Genealogist's Video Research Guide
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