Genealogy Chat

I've been watching this on TV, browsing their website, and reading the book. It's a great series and everything, but I am concerned about one thing... Why don't they recommend this website to people at home who might be interested in researching their ancestors? I mean, Genes Reunited is like the number 1 Genealogy site on the internet IMO, and I wouldn't be working on my family tree otherwise! Here, I've made contact with 3 close relatives I've never met before, extending my family tree with over 50 cousins etc. I'm sure there has been many other success stories too. I tried Gen Circles and Rootsweb, but never found any of my ancestors on those sites... It's all about Genes Reunited!! Therefore, why does such a major BBC TV series fail to recognise the potential of this website? Is there something I should know about GR's reputation?

The BBC series has recommended the 1901 Census online and also 1837 online; aren't these commercial sites too? With Genes Reunited, you don't have to pay to build your tree, and you can't beat the system they use (very well programmed). It's more easier than using Family Tree Maker IMO! Existing full members, who are potential relatives, can come and find you anyway... If only the BBC would make people aware of this site... Can you imagine the potential??

I agree - most people starting out on their family tree would welcome the address of this site and the others on the internet. Maybe thats it, there are so many to chose from, maybe too many for the programme but I would have thought the website could have at least pointed in the right direction. Mary

In terms of researching your family tree, I honestly think that no other website can compare to Genes Reunited by a long shot; It's the essential starting point! I introduced this site to my friend, and within 20 minutes he had found 2 relatives with trees and information on unknown ancestors from both his Mother's side and Father's side of the family. Two contacts in TWENTY MINUTES! His tree soon quadrupled in size...

Hi Giles, In one of the T.V magazines, can't remember which one. There was a free booklet about this programme. It gives a lot of info about places to contact, and also addresses for online research. GR is actually mentioned and web site given. Maybe you can get a copy from the B.B.C. There is a help line 08700100150. try them. Ann Update. Just had a look on bbc(.)co(.)uk/familyhistory. Browse through its quite interesting.

1901 census and 1837online are run by bodies connected to the government, as is the BBC. There's profit in them there family trees! GR, familysearch and Ancestry are independant sites, why should the government give them free advertisement?

On the programme it looks like you have to go in person to Rochdale, Workington or wherever to get certificates!! Jacquie

Hi all, Although I'm enjoying watching the series, am I the only one who thinks they are giving the message that you just go tap, tap, tap on the computer and up all your family pops. They also just seem to pop into each registry office and as if by magic a certificate arrives. No mention of the money involved. All said, I'll still watch it next week!!! Sam

There was one good thing on last night's one though. They showed that family legend isn't always accurate. I now know that it must've been my grandfather (LNER) not my great Grandfather (Caledonian Railways) who arranged for my uncle to have a go at stoking the Flying Scotsman. (There is a picture to prove it.)