Genealogy Tool Kit

The National Archives (NARA) is the guardian of much our country's paper trail. Because so many genealogists avail themselves of the treasures it holds, NARA has published the Genealogy Tool Kit. This step-by-step guide on identifying and locating federal records should be extremely helpful as you begin to explore different record sets.

What will you find inside?

Beautifully laid out and filled with eye-catching photos, the book contains sections on getting started, working with the census, immigration and naturalization, military service, and federal land records. Each section includes information on what is available at the National Archives in Washington, D.C., online, by ordering, and in other NARA branches.

How is the book formatted?

Sections are arranged in a step-by-step format that is repeated throughout the book. By using a unique pattern of questions/answers (much like a Choose Your Own Adventure), the book guides you through a research process for each record set. An appendix includes the contact information for all branches of the National Archives, and there is a list of other available guides to order and/or to download.