However, standard relational databases lack the functionality that hobbyist genealogists typically need. Storing that information suggests using some form of database. Tracing your ancestry is painstaking work, it can be very addictive and creates large amounts of data. Huge online genealogical databases also help people discover their history. Not all records are online (particularly those before 1837) so visiting local records offices, churches, graveyards or libraries can help in the quest. These traditional sources are often available to review over the net, although it’s often not free access. There are a huge raft of sources to trace ancestors including the General Register of Births, Marriages and Deaths, Census Returns, International Genealogical Index, National Burial Index, Parish Registers, Wills and Other Probate documents. It’s not just celebrities when tracing their ancestry who come up with secrets and surprises from their past.

Further, radio and TV programmes such as the immortal Who Do You Think You Are?, and other shows such as Secrets of the Clink have encouraged a growing band people to trace their roots, sparking new interest. There are useful websites devoted to helping would-be genealogists. Genealogy, the study of one’s ancestry, allows people to personalise the past. With this software, you can help unlock the past, discover secrets and surprises from your past. Family history (or genealogy) software is computer software used to record, organise and publish genealogical data.

Best free family tree software 2018