Genealogy Merit Badge

Help with Answers for Genealogy Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Genealogy merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Genealogy Terms
• Requirement 2: Personal History
• Requirement 3: Interview
• Requirement 4: Records
• Requirement 5: Services
• Requirement 6: Family Tree
• Requirement 7: Family Group Record
• Requirement 8: Technology
• Requirement 9: What You Learned
• More Resources

Requirement 1a: Genealogy Words

What You Need To Do

Learn the meanings of the words genealogy, ancestor, and descendant. Be ready to explain these words to your counselor in your own words.

Helpful Tips

• Genealogy means studying family history and family connections.
• An ancestor is a person from an older generation in your family.
• Grandparents and great-grandparents are ancestors.
• A descendant is a person from a younger generation in a family.
• Children and grandchildren are descendants.
• Practice explaining the words out loud before meeting with your counselor.
• Use examples from your own family to help remember the meanings.
• Draw a simple family line to show ancestors and descendants.

Resources

• What Is Genealogy? Terminology (video)

Leader Tips

• Keep the conversation relaxed and easy to follow.
• Use simple family examples during discussions.
• Encourage Scouts to use their own family members as examples.
• Let Scouts practice explaining the terms to each other.

Requirement 1b: Family Trees

What You Need To Do

Learn what a family tree is and what information belongs on it. Be ready to explain how a family tree shows family connections.

Helpful Tips

• A family tree is a chart showing family relationships.
• Family trees usually start with one person and branch out to relatives.
• Include names of parents, grandparents, and other relatives.
• Add birth dates if you know them.
• Add marriage dates and death dates when possible.
• Use lines to connect parents and children.
• Start with a small section of your family first.
• Use paper or genealogy software to organize your tree.

Resources

• Family Tree Template
• The Family Tree (video)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts examples of simple family trees.
• Encourage neat and organized work.
• Help Scouts focus on accuracy instead of making a large chart.
• Remind Scouts that some family information may be missing.

Requirement 1c: Family Group Records

What You Need To Do

Learn what a family group record is and what information it contains. Be ready to explain how this record helps organize family history information.

Helpful Tips

• A family group record focuses on one family unit.
• It usually includes parents and their children.
• Write full names when possible.
• Include birth, marriage, and death dates.
• Add places connected to important events.
• Keep your information organized and easy to read.
• Check spelling of names carefully.
• Save copies of records and notes for later use.

Resources

• What Are Family Group Sheets and Pedigree Charts? (video)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts a sample family group record.
• Encourage careful writing and organization.
• Help Scouts break the task into smaller steps.
• Remind Scouts to respect private family information.

Requirement 2a: Timeline And Biography

What You Need To Do

Create a timeline for yourself or a relative. Then use the timeline to write a short biography about that person’s life.

Helpful Tips

• Start with basic dates like birth and school years.
• Add important events in order from oldest to newest.
• Include jobs, moves, awards, or major life events.
• Talk to family members to gather information.
• Look at photos, certificates, or old documents for dates.
• Keep your timeline neat and easy to follow.
• Use the timeline to help organize your biography.
• Write your biography in simple paragraphs with clear details.

Resources

• All About Timelines (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to pick a person they can easily research.
• Remind Scouts to keep events in chronological order.
• Help Scouts break the biography into small sections.
• Focus on clear writing instead of long reports.

Requirement 2b: Six-Week Journal

What You Need To Do

Keep a journal for six weeks. Write in it at least one time each week.

Helpful Tips

• Pick a notebook, app, or document for your journal.
• Choose the same day each week to write.
• Write about activities, thoughts, or important events.
• Include details about school, Scouts, family, or hobbies.
• Date each journal entry clearly.
• Write a few sentences even if the week seems quiet.
• Keep your journal in a safe place.
• Read older entries to see changes over time.

Resources

• How to Journal (video)

Leader Tips

• Remind Scouts to write regularly during the six weeks.
• Encourage short and honest journal entries.
• Help Scouts create a simple writing routine.
• Check progress occasionally so Scouts stay on track.

Requirement 3: Family Interview

What You Need To Do

Choose a relative or family acquaintance to interview with help from your parent or guardian. Ask questions about family history and record the information you learn.

Helpful Tips

• Choose someone who enjoys talking about family history.
• Ask your parent or guardian for interview ideas.
• Prepare questions before the interview starts.
• Ask about childhood memories, jobs, schools, and family traditions.
• Write notes during the interview.
• Use a phone or voice recorder if allowed.
• Ask follow-up questions when a story sounds interesting.
• Keep copies of letters or emails from the interview.
• Thank the person after the interview is finished.

Resources

• How to Master the Art of Interviewing With 5 Easy Journalist Techniques (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to prepare questions ahead of time.
• Remind Scouts to listen carefully and not rush the interview.
• Help Scouts think of open-ended questions.
• Encourage respect and patience during conversations with older relatives.

Requirement 4a: Physical Genealogical Resources

What You Need To Do

Name three types of physical genealogical resources and where to find them. Explain how these resources can help you build your family tree.

Helpful Tips

• Look for records in libraries and local archives.
• Check family photo albums and scrapbooks.
• Search for birth, marriage, and death certificates.
• Read old newspapers for obituaries and family stories.
• Ask relatives if they have letters or family Bibles.
• Write down where each record was found.
• Keep copies or photos of important documents.
• Organize your notes in folders or binders.

Resources

• 8 Places to Look for an Ancestor’s Birth Record (video)

Leader Tips

• Bring sample documents for Scouts to examine.
• Encourage Scouts to ask relatives about family records.
• Help Scouts learn the difference between original and copied records.
• Remind Scouts to handle old documents carefully.

Requirement 4b: Digital Genealogical Resources

What You Need To Do

Name three types of digital genealogical resources and where to find them. Explain how online resources can help with family history research.

Helpful Tips

• Use genealogy websites to search family records.
• Try websites like Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and MyHeritage.com.
• Search online census and military records.
• Use digital newspaper archives for family information.
• Compare information from different websites.
• Save copies of useful records and screenshots.
• Keep track of website names and search results.
• Ask an adult for help with subscriptions or accounts.

Resources

• 7 Free Genealogy Websites (video)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts safe and reliable genealogy websites.
• Encourage careful checking of online information.
• Help Scouts learn basic online search skills.
• Remind Scouts to record sources for their research.

Requirement 4c: Genealogical Documents

What You Need To Do

Find at least one genealogical document connected to your family history. Use the document to support information on your pedigree chart or family group record.

Helpful Tips

• Start with easy-to-find family documents at home.
• Look for birth, marriage, or death certificates.
• Check old family papers and photo boxes.
• Ask relatives if they can share copies of records.
• Write down where and when you found the document.
• Keep the document in a safe place.
• Make a copy so you can study it later.
• Match the document details to your family records.

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to start with family sources first.
• Help Scouts connect documents to family tree information.
• Remind Scouts to organize copies and notes carefully.
• Encourage patience during the search process.

Requirement 4d: Evaluating Information

What You Need To Do

Explain how you found your genealogical document and how you checked the information for accuracy.

Helpful Tips

• Write down the steps you used to find the document.
• Compare names and dates with other records.
• Check for spelling differences in names.
• Look for records created close to the event date.
• Use more than one source when possible.
• Keep notes about questions or missing details.
• Ask relatives if they recognize the information.
• Stay organized while comparing records.

Leader Tips

• Teach Scouts to compare information from several sources.
• Encourage careful reading of names and dates.
• Help Scouts avoid rushing to conclusions.
• Remind Scouts that some records may contain mistakes.

Requirement 4e: Finding Genealogical Records

What You Need To Do

Tell where to find marriage records, census records, birth records, and burial information.

Helpful Tips

• Marriage records are often kept at county offices.
• Census records can be found online or in archives.
• Birth records are usually kept by state or county offices.
• Burial information may be found at cemeteries or funeral homes.
• Search local libraries for historical records.
• Use genealogy websites to find digital copies.
• Write down the locations of useful records.
• Ask local historical societies for help.

Resources

• Vital Records (video)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts examples of different record types.
• Encourage Scouts to learn about local record offices.
• Help Scouts practice searching for records online.
• Remind Scouts that records may be stored in different places depending on age and location.

Requirement 5: Genealogical Services

What You Need To Do

Contact one person or organization involved in genealogy research. Ask about the services, records, or activities they provide and report what you learned.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a group or person connected to genealogy research.
• Ask your parent or guardian for help making contact.
• Prepare a few questions before you call or write.
• Ask about records, databases, classes, or research help.
• Take notes during the conversation.
• Save emails or letters you receive.
• Ask how people use the organization’s resources.
• Write a short report about what you learned.
• Thank the person or organization for their time.

Additional Information About Genealogy Groups And Services

• Genealogical societies focus on family history research and local records.
• Lineage societies require proof that you are related to a specific ancestor or historical group.
• Professional genealogists do research for clients and are usually paid for their work.
• Surname organizations connect people who share the same last name.
• Genealogical libraries collect books, maps, newspapers, and family records.
• Archives preserve government records, military files, and historical documents.
• Historical societies focus on the history of a town, county, or region.
• Educational genealogy programs teach research skills through classes and workshops.
• Online genealogy websites provide searchable databases and family tree tools.
• Courthouses often store marriage records, land records, and probate files.

Resources

• Why Join a Genealogical Society (video)
• How to Hire a Professional Genealogist (video)
• Facebook Surname Groups (video)
• Getting Started With the Genealogy Center (video)
• Where to Find Records for Family History Research (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts choose a contact they can easily reach.
• Encourage polite communication and good questions.
• Remind Scouts to keep notes during conversations.
• Encourage Scouts to share interesting resources they discover.

Requirement 6: Build A Family Tree

What You Need To Do

Start a family tree with yourself and include at least two more generations. You can use the chart from the merit badge pamphlet or a genealogy software program.

Helpful Tips

• Start by writing your own name first.
• Add your parents and grandparents next.
• Include full names when possible.
• Add birth dates and places if you know them.
• Ask relatives to help fill in missing information.
• Use records and family documents to check details.
• Keep your family tree neat and organized.
• Save copies of your work in more than one place.
• Use a pencil or editable software in case information changes.

Resources

• Family Tree Template
• How to Make a Family Tree (on Paper, Not Online To Avoid Putting Private Information Online) (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to begin with close family members.
• Remind Scouts that some information may be hard to find.
• Help Scouts organize names and generations clearly.
• Encourage careful checking of dates and spelling.

Requirement 7: Family Group Records

What You Need To Do

Complete two family group record forms. One form should include you and your brothers and sisters. The second form should include one of your parents and that parent’s brothers and sisters.

Helpful Tips

• Use one form for your immediate family.
• Use another form for one of your parent’s families.
• Include full names for each person.
• Add birth dates and places if possible.
• Ask relatives for missing information.
• Check old documents or family records for details.
• Keep your forms neat and easy to read.
• Use genealogy software if you prefer digital records.
• Save copies of completed forms for future research.

Resources

• How to Use Family Group Sheets (video)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts an example of a completed family group record.
• Encourage Scouts to gather information from several relatives.
• Help Scouts organize family relationships correctly.
• Remind Scouts to double-check names and dates before finishing.

Requirement 8a: Computers And The Internet

What You Need To Do

Explain how computers and the Internet have changed genealogy research. Talk about how people use technology to find and share family history information.

Helpful Tips

• Computers help organize family history information.
• The Internet gives access to records from many places.
• Genealogy websites allow people to search old documents online.
• Online family trees make sharing information easier.
• Researchers can contact distant relatives through genealogy websites.
• Digital records save time compared to traveling to archives.
• Genealogy software helps store names, dates, and relationships.
• Always compare online information with other records.

Resources

• How to Use Internet Archive for Genealogy (video)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts examples of genealogy websites and software.
• Encourage Scouts to think about how research was done before computers.
• Help Scouts discuss both benefits and limits of online research.
• Remind Scouts to use trusted sources when searching online.

Requirement 8b: Photography And Microfilming

What You Need To Do

Explain how photography and microfilming have helped genealogy research and record keeping.

Helpful Tips

• Old photographs help identify family members and places.
• Family photos can show clothing, homes, and activities from the past.
• Labels on photographs may include names and dates.
• Microfilm stores copies of important records in a small format.
• Libraries and archives often use microfilm for old newspapers and records.
• Microfilming helps protect fragile documents from damage.
• Digital scans are now replacing some microfilm collections.
• Handle old photographs carefully to prevent damage.

Resources

• Getting Involved: Quick Name Review (video)

Leader Tips

• Bring old photos or microfilm examples if possible.
• Encourage Scouts to ask relatives about family photographs.
• Help Scouts learn why preserving records matters.
• Remind Scouts to store photos and documents safely.

Requirement 8c: Record Indexing

What You Need To Do

Explain how record indexing works and why it helps genealogy research.

Helpful Tips

• Record indexing organizes information into searchable lists.
• Indexes often include names, dates, and locations.
• Volunteers and workers create many genealogy indexes.
• Indexed records are easier to search than unorganized records.
• Online databases use indexes to help people find records quickly.
• Spelling differences can affect search results.
• Try different spellings when searching for names.
• Check original records when possible to confirm information.

Resources

• Getting Involved: Quick Name Review (video)
• How to Get Involved with Family Search on your Phone (video)
• Family Search: Get Involved Introduction (video)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts examples of indexed and non-indexed records.
• Encourage Scouts to think about how indexing saves time.
• Help Scouts practice searching simple indexes.
• Remind Scouts that indexes can contain mistakes.

Requirement 9: What You Learned

What You Need To Do

Discuss what you learned about your family and relatives while working on your genealogy research. Share stories, discoveries, or connections you found during the process.

Helpful Tips

• Think about interesting facts you discovered about relatives.
• Share stories about jobs, military service, or family traditions.
• Talk about places where your family lived.
• Mention any surprises you found during your research.
• Compare life in the past to life today.
• Ask relatives for more stories and memories.
• Look for patterns in names, careers, or traditions.
• Share how the research changed your view of your family.
• Keep notes so you remember important details.

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to focus on personal discoveries.
• Help Scouts feel comfortable sharing family stories.
• Remind Scouts that every family history is different.
• Encourage respect for private or sensitive family information.

Faith and Our Ancestors Game

The Faith and Our Ancestors Game is a fun and interactive icebreaker activity that adds a genealogy twist. It can be used as an opening activity for the Genealogy Merit Badge. The game consists of a 3×3 grid with different interview questions in each space.

Players ask each other the questions and fill in the answers given. To complete the grid, players must ask a different person for each space, encouraging interaction and conversation.

Genealogy and Non-Traditional Families

Scouts from non-traditional families may face unique challenges when working on the Genealogy Merit Badge. Some may not know who their grandparents or even parents are. In these cases, it’s important to redefine the concept of “family”. Family doesn’t always require a biological connection. It can be defined by the love and care shared between individuals.

To accommodate non-traditional family structures, consider alternative approaches. For instance, instead of using a traditional family tree form, allow Scouts to create a more flexible representation of the important people in their lives. This inclusive approach ensures that all Scouts can participate and explore their heritage.

Living History Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Living History program feature for Scouts BSA offers an engaging and interactive way for Scouts to explore different cultures, times, and places. Through reenactments and hands-on activities, Scouts can immerse themselves in historical events and gain a deeper understanding of different ways of life.

This program feature can be a perfect complement to the Genealogy Merit Badge, allowing Scouts to connect with their ancestors’ experiences and learn about the historical context in which they lived. By participating in the Living History program, Scouts can develop a greater appreciation for history and a broader perspective on the world around them.

What is the Genealogy Merit Badge?

The Genealogy Merit Badge is a badge offered by the Boy Scouts of America that focuses on the exploration of one’s family history and ancestry. Scouts will learn how to research and document their family tree, discover the stories of their ancestors, and gain a deeper understanding of their own heritage.

How can I earn the Genealogy Merit Badge?

To earn the Genealogy Merit Badge, Scouts must complete a set of requirements outlined by the Boy Scouts of America. These requirements include tasks such as interviewing relatives, researching historical records, and creating a family tree. By successfully completing these requirements, Scouts will demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of genealogy.

Can I work on the Genealogy Merit Badge alone, or do I need a group?

Scouts have the option to work on the Genealogy Merit Badge individually or as part of a group. While requirements must be completed by each Scout, working together can provide a richer experience and foster a sense of connection with one’s family and community.

How do I get started with the Genealogy Merit Badge?

The first step to get started with the Genealogy Merit Badge, is to get your Scoutmaster’s approval and meet with a merit badge counselor. After that, Scouts can begin by gathering information about their immediate family members. This includes names, birth dates, and any other relevant details. From there, Scouts can expand their research by interviewing relatives, exploring online databases, and visiting local libraries or historical societies.

Can I use online genealogy websites for my research?

Yes, online genealogy websites can be a valuable tool for conducting research and building your family tree. Websites such as Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and MyHeritage.com provide access to vast databases of historical records, census data, and other genealogical resources. However, it’s important to verify the accuracy of the information found online and cross-reference it with other sources.

How can I interview relatives for the Genealogy Merit Badge?

Interviewing relatives is an essential part of the Genealogy Merit Badge. Scouts can prepare a list of questions to ask their relatives, focusing on topics such as family history, traditions, and memorable events. It’s important to approach these interviews with respect and curiosity, allowing relatives to share their stories and experiences.

What should I do if I encounter challenges during my research?

Researching one’s family history can sometimes present challenges, such as missing records or conflicting information. If you encounter difficulties, don’t get discouraged. Reach out to experienced genealogists, local historians, or genealogy societies for assistance. They can provide guidance, suggest alternative research methods, and help you overcome obstacles.

Can I earn the Genealogy Merit Badge if I don’t know much about my family history?

Yes, you can still earn the Genealogy Merit Badge even if you have limited knowledge of your family history. The badge is designed to help Scouts explore and discover their ancestry, regardless of their starting point. By conducting research, interviewing relatives, and utilizing available resources, you can uncover fascinating details about your family’s past.

How long does it typically take to earn the Genealogy Merit Badge?

The time it takes to earn the Genealogy Merit Badge can vary depending on the individual Scout’s dedication and the availability of resources. Some Scouts may complete the requirements within a few weeks, while others may take several months. The important thing is to approach the badge with curiosity, patience, and a willingness to learn.

Can I earn the Genealogy Merit Badge multiple times?

No, Scouts can only earn the Genealogy Merit Badge once. However, the skills and knowledge gained during the process can be applied to future genealogical research and personal exploration. The badge serves as a foundation for a lifelong interest in genealogy and family history.

How does the Genealogy Merit Badge connect to other badges or activities?

The Genealogy Merit Badge can complement and enhance other badges and activities within the Scouts BSA program. For example, Scouts working on the Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge can explore the history of their local community through the lens of their own family’s experiences. The Genealogy Merit Badge provides a unique perspective on personal and community history.

Can I share my genealogical findings with others?

Absolutely! Sharing your genealogical findings with others can be a rewarding experience. You can create a family tree, compile a scrapbook, or even organize a presentation to share your discoveries with family, friends, or your Scout troop. By sharing your findings, you can inspire others to explore their own family history and foster a sense of connection and belonging.

As Scouts complete the requirements for the Genealogy Merit Badge, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and connection to their heritage. Exploring one’s heritage is a fascinating and enriching experience that allows Scouts to gain a deeper understanding of their family’s history and their place within it.

By delving into their family tree, conducting interviews with relatives, and researching historical records, Scouts can uncover stories and details that bring their ancestors to life. Each name on the family tree represents a person with their own unique experiences, triumphs, and challenges. Through this exploration, Scouts can develop a sense of pride and appreciation for the individuals who came before them.

Exploring one’s heritage also provides an opportunity to connect with living relatives and strengthen family bonds. By sharing their findings with family members, Scouts can spark conversations, create lasting memories, and foster a sense of unity and belonging.

Moreover, understanding one’s heritage can provide a broader perspective on history and society. Scouts can gain insights into the cultural, social, and historical contexts in which their ancestors lived, and how those contexts have shaped their own lives. This knowledge can help Scouts develop empathy, cultural awareness, and a greater appreciation for diversity.

In conclusion, the Genealogy Merit Badge offers Scouts a unique opportunity to explore their heritage, connect with their family, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves. By embracing this badge, Scouts embark on a journey of self-discovery that will leave a lasting impact on their lives. So, go ahead and explore your heritage – you never know what fascinating stories and connections you may uncover along the way.