This lecture covers the basics of starting out in the search of one’s ancestry. Why do we study our ancestry and what makes it so compelling? Basic methodology will be explained along with the first steps to beginning research. Record sources such as vital records (birth, marriage, death) will be explored along with census, passenger lists, naturalizations, and cemeteries. Recent advances in the field such as DNA and the internet with popular websites will be discussed. The resources of the Church of Latter Day Saints (the Mormons) will be explained. Speaker Michael Brophy is a nationally known, professional genealogical researcher, heir search specialist, and lecturer from the Boston area.