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There are many great genealogy resources available on the internet today. With the ability to scan and record literally millions of records into databases, genealogy has become something that anyone can enjoy. With a little luck and a little more patience, almost anyone can trace their family tree utilizing the myriad of genealogical and historical websites that are dedicated to preserving our past and celebrating our heritage.

One of the most well-known genealogy websites, that probably doesn't need mentioning, is of course Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com). This site lets you conduct a basic search for free, but more detailed information is accessible by paying a membership fee. But here's a hint: did you know that some libraries, historical societies, and LDS Family History Centers have a paid account to Ancestry.com which you can use for free?

Another great resource, which is mostly free (but tends to link back to Ancestry.com for some searches) is Rootsweb.com (http://www.rootsweb.com). Here you can browse through user-submitted family trees, upload your own information, join mailing lists specific to the surname or place you are focusing your research on, and much more. They even have message boards where you can post a question or try to get past that "brick wall."

One of my favorite free resources for searching international records is Familysearch.org (http://www.familysearch.org), a project which was undertaken by the LDS church. Millions of church books, civil records, military records, etc. have been scanned and microfilmed and most of the data entered into a free online database for users to search. Searches are customizable, though the search fields tend to be a little picky about what information may or may not be entered. It is advisable to have a pretty good knowledge of the people you are searching for, because there are literally millions of records. It is also recommended to actually order the microfilm once you do find the online record (or even if you don't not all records have been put online). It costs $5.50 to be sent to the nearest Family History Center, and these are just amazing to actually see.

The U.S. Gen Web (http://www.usgenweb.com/) is another free project undertaken by volunteers, which filters down to the county level. On this site, click on your state to find genealogy projects and information; and with luck, someone may have even undertaken a project for your county. Again, this is all volunteer work, so the site and

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