Methodology7 min
How to Build Your First Family Tree: From Oral Memory to Graph
A structured methodology for beginner genealogists to interview older relatives, gather primary certificates, and structure records without digital clutter.
Editorial Knowledge Base
Genealogical Library & Field Guides
Rigorous essays on kinship geometry, generational numbering, photo preservation, GEDCOM architecture, and modern privacy protection.
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Kinship Analysis6 min
Understanding First, Second, and Cousins Once Removed
A mathematical and linguistic guide explaining degrees of collateral kinship, common ancestors, and generational differences.
Classification5 min
How Generations Are Counted in Modern Pedigrees
Understanding Sosa-Stradonitz (Ahnentafel) numbering, generational levels, and lineage depths.
Graph Architecture8 min
Documenting Half-Siblings and Blended Families Accurately
Why 19th-century genealogical grids fail and how graph representations properly preserve complex family bonds.
Oral History6 min
Recording Family Oral Histories Without Fictional Embellishment
Best practices for transcribing taped conversations, noting source credibility, and documenting disputed memories.
Archival Preservation7 min
How to Organize and Digitize Vintage Family Photographs
Preservation standards, resolution choices, metadata labelling, and safe physical storage for antique albums.
Interoperability9 min
What Is a GEDCOM File? Interoperability and Limitations
A comprehensive guide to the GEDCOM standard, line-based records, cross-software migration, and schema boundaries.
Privacy & Ethics8 min
Protecting Living Relatives' Privacy in Digital Genealogy
GDPR principles, sensitive data ethics, redactions for printable posters, and local-first architecture.