Genealogy is more than just tracing names and dates; it’s about uncovering and sharing the stories of your ancestors. Blogging about your genealogy research can be a rewarding way to share these stories with a wider audience, connect with distant relatives, and even discover new information. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced genealogist, starting a genealogy blog can enhance your research and preservation efforts. This guide will provide insights, guidance, tips, and tricks to help you get started.

Why Blog About Your Genealogy?

Blogging about your genealogy has several benefits:

• Preservation: Documenting your research in a blog ensures that it is preserved for future generations.
• Sharing: Share your discoveries with family members and other interested readers.
• Connecting: Connect with distant relatives who might have additional information or corrections.
• Learning: The process of writing and organizing your research can help you see connections and details you might have missed.

Steps to Start a Genealogy Blog

1. Choose a Blogging Platform

Several platforms are well-suited for genealogy blogging:

• WordPress: A popular choice with extensive customization options. (https://www.wordpress.com)
• Blogger: Easy to use and integrates well with other Google services. (https://www.blogger.com)
• Wix: Offers drag-and-drop design features and good support. (https://www.wix.com)

2. Define Your Blog’s Purpose and Audience

Consider what you want to achieve with your blog and who your target audience is:

• Purpose: Are you sharing your research journey, specific family stories, or genealogy tips and tricks?
• Audience: Are you writing for family members, other genealogists, or the general public?

3. Plan Your Content

Content planning is crucial for maintaining a consistent and engaging blog:

• Create an Editorial Calendar: Plan your posts ahead of time to ensure regular updates.
• Types of Posts: Mix different types of content such as research updates, family stories, how-to guides, and reviews of genealogy tools and resources.

4. Write Engaging Posts

Writing engaging content is key to attracting and retaining readers:

• Tell a Story: Focus on storytelling to make your posts interesting and relatable.
• Use Visuals: Include photos, documents, and charts to complement your text.
• Keep it Simple: Write in a clear and approachable style, avoiding jargon where possible.

5. Promote Your Blog

Once your blog is live, promote it to reach a wider audience:

• Social Media: Share your posts on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
• Genealogy Forums: Participate in genealogy forums and communities, sharing your blog when relevant.
• Email Newsletters: Consider starting a newsletter to keep your readers updated on new posts.

Tips and Tricks for Genealogy Blogging

For Novices:

1. Start Small: Begin with short posts about specific ancestors or research experiences.
2. Stay Consistent: Aim for regular updates, even if they are brief.
3. Engage with Readers: Respond to comments and questions to build a community.

For Experienced Genealogists:

1. Deep Dives: Write in-depth posts about complex research topics or significant discoveries.
2. Collaborate: Invite guest posts from other genealogists or collaborate on joint research projects.
3. Expand Your Reach: Use SEO techniques to improve your blog’s visibility on search engines.

Inspirational Stories and Ideas

Blogging can lead to remarkable discoveries and connections:

• Uncovering New Information: Sharing your research can attract input from others who have relevant information.
• Connecting with Relatives: Many genealogists have connected with distant relatives through their blogs, gaining new family stories and documents.
• Preserving History: Your blog can serve as a valuable archive of family history for future generations.

Additional Resources

• Cyndi’s List: A comprehensive directory of genealogy resources online. (https://www.cyndislist.com)
• Genealogy Gems: Offers tips and inspiration for genealogists. (https://lisalouisecooke.com)
• The National Genealogical Society: Provides resources and support for genealogists. (https://www.ngsgenealogy.org)

Conclusion

Starting a genealogy blog is a fantastic way to share your family’s stories, connect with other researchers, and preserve your hard work for future generations. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can create a blog that is engaging, informative, and a valuable resource for others. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of research experience, blogging can take your genealogy journey to the next level.

Happy blogging!