How can I trace my ancestors?
I presume that some, at least, of your ancestors lived in the area where you reside right now. If so, you could do much worse than to contact the nearest Mormon Church [Church of Latter Day Saints]. Because the Mormons believe that dead people can be baptized [citing 1 Cor. 15:29, if you care] they keep excellent genealogical records and will provide reasonable help to persons seeking information. The downside to contacting the Mormons is that you will probably be visited later by two earnest young Mormon missionaries, who will want to tell you all about Joseph Smith. While mildly persistent, they are usually polite and well-mannered, and they will not generally overstay their welcome. If they come at dinnertime–they don’t as a rule–don’t feed them, or you will see them many, many more times. They are often living away from home for the first time, and they don’t eat properly.
