This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/DMQ.2ACIB/814.2 Message Board Post: Monique, a good rule of thumb is -- work from the known to the unknown. In other words, prove what you already know, by charting your own family, and gathering the documents that proved the relationships. In modern times, you can find birth, marriage & death certificates, diplomas, driver's licences, deeds, wills, mortgage papers, etc. Then move back to your parent's generation, and again, prove everything by gathering your evidence. At that point, you might be able to use census records to help you pinpoint their movements. Keep moving back, not forgetting the siblings, multiple marriages, and other complications! You will find that the nature of the records changes as you move back in time, and certificates are no longer available. As you go, you'll figure out what you need. Also, be sure to visit: http://rwguide.rootsweb.com/ You'll find every question you can think of, answered there! Good luck, Valorie