Cemeteries possess a lot of family data. The headstones and records contain info not always found elsewhere. But these monumental records are deteriorating rapidly. Efforts have started recently to save this data from extinction. Many cemeteries have started documenting all the data on the headstones and making it available locally or on the Web.

Locally means a road trip to not only where your kin died and was buried but also to where he or she lived. This can produce a very fruitful travel excursion. The same locality usually has a library which is filled with old newspapers and other articles from ancient times. The local government buildings probably house documents of transactions recorded by these ancient beings. Schools also can have early enrollment records.

But be prepared. As you travel back in time it is not unheard of to learn that your predecessors may not have attended school or may not have been literate. Many of the smaller towns offer a wealth of information but only if you travel. Bon voyage!