How to Find Living Relatives on FamilySearch
Finding living relatives can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor, especially when you have access to the vast resources available on FamilySearch. FamilySearch is a free genealogy website that provides a vast collection of genealogical records, including vital records, census records, and family trees. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find living relatives on FamilySearch.
1. Create a FamilySearch Account
Before you can start searching for living relatives, you need to create a FamilySearch account. Visit the FamilySearch website and click on the “Sign Up” button. Fill in the required information, including your name, email address, and password. Once you have created your account, you can log in and start searching.
2. Search for Your Ancestors
To find living relatives, you need to start by searching for your ancestors on FamilySearch. Use the search bar to enter the name of an ancestor or a family member. You can also use other search criteria such as birth date, location, or relationship to narrow down your search results.
3. View Ancestor’s Family Tree
Once you have found an ancestor, click on their name to view their family tree. This family tree will show you the relationships between your ancestor and other individuals in your family tree. Look for any living individuals listed in the tree, such as siblings, aunts, uncles, or cousins.
4. Contact Living Relatives
If you find a living relative in your ancestor’s family tree, you can contact them through FamilySearch. Click on the “Contact” button next to the living relative’s name. A new window will open with a form to enter your message. Be sure to include your name, relationship to the individual, and a brief message about why you are contacting them.
5. Use the Public Member Tree
FamilySearch also offers a Public Member Tree, which is a collaborative effort to create a single, worldwide family tree. This tree includes living individuals and can be a valuable resource for finding living relatives. To search the Public Member Tree, click on the “Public Member Tree” link on the FamilySearch homepage. Use the search bar to enter your ancestor’s name or other search criteria.
6. Use the Community Trees
Community Trees on FamilySearch are collections of family trees contributed by users from specific geographic areas or ethnic groups. These trees can be particularly useful for finding living relatives in specific regions or ethnic backgrounds. To access Community Trees, click on the “Community Trees” link on the FamilySearch homepage and search for trees related to your ancestors.
7. Use the International Genealogical Index (IGI)
The International Genealogical Index (IGI) is a database of genealogical records from around the world. While the IGI may not contain living individuals, it can help you identify potential living relatives by providing additional information about your ancestors. To search the IGI, click on the “International Genealogical Index” link on the FamilySearch homepage and enter your ancestor’s name.
In conclusion, finding living relatives on FamilySearch can be a straightforward process if you follow these steps. With the vast resources available on FamilySearch, you can connect with long-lost family members and learn more about your family history. Happy searching!
