Organizing Research

Suggestions For Organizing Genealogy Files. 

**Most of the following information is gleaned from - 

The Family Roots Organizer Color-Coding System by Mary E.V. Hill: 

The video of her webinar is available on Legacy Family Tree Webinars. 

(Legacy is subscription based, although there are some viewable Webinars that are free.  However, I would recommend the annual subscription, it is so worth it!!)

 Genealogical Filing systems:

Supplies needed:

 -Container for files

 -File folders 

-1"or 2"  3-ring binder 

-Over-sized subject dividers.

A.  Basic filing system: 

1. Select colors for Surnames

a. Father's Father:  Blue                                                                  

b. Mother's Father:  Red 

c. Father's Mother:  Green 
d. Mother's Mother:  Yellow                                                                                       
2. Label each color file folder with a Surname.     

3. Sort papers & file in correct folder. Arrange by type of record, chronologically by date of record or by family groups.

4. Arranged Alpha- Subdivide Surname files. 

5. Separate docs into files by Surname & Locality.

* If Surname family lived in several locations, add 2 or + folders for each.  

 Ex: Harris:Census, Harris:Land Records, Harris:Immigration Rec.

*If a Doc contains more surnames: Duplicate page or Cross-Reference both surnames in own files.

B.  Organizing Computer Files: 

1. Organize File Structures

2. Organizing digital photos

C. Organize Your Research

1. Genealogy Supplies

2. Create a 'Research Journal' & document all research activity. 

3. Create a 'Timelines'  Folder and Use Timelines for all your Ancestors

4. Use a Genealogy Software Program

D. Organize Family Heirlooms:

1. Inventory each item on your computer by creating a folder for each category. 

E. Useful Forms:

Article Reading List

Research Checklist of Books

Family Correspondence Log

Correspondence Log

Heirloom Inventory

Research Repository Checklist - & Online Internet Sources

Research Calendar

Research Journal

Census Checklist

Research Trip Pack List

Table of Contents for File Folders

 Pedigree Forms and Identification 

5-Generation Ancestor Chart

Family Group Sheet of each Family

Biographical Outline of the Life of each ancestor

Photo-Identification Worksheet

Quick-Reference Guides:

Source Citation Documentation Cheat Sheet

Vital Records Chart