I started researching my genealogy when I was about 23 years old. In the seven years since, I have noticed a common denominator among genealogists: they tend to have gray hair. It has been the rare occasion when I have come across genealogists who are in their 20s or 30s. I usually feel like the oddball when I am performing research in courthouses or town archives. But what can I say-I find my family history fascinating.
To my blissfulness, I have recently come across a whole community of young genealogists. Unfortunately they are all online, but it is nice to find other family history hobbyists near my own age nonetheless. Not many of my friends can appreciate my hobby-or obsession-so I hope I can make some connections with some of these younger-generation genealogists, even if it is only online (although real-life meet-ups would be nice as well).
Here are some websites I have recently come across that may be of interest to other young genealogists, such as myself.
Youth Genealogists Association: This is a fairly new organization that is dedicated to mentoring and educating young genealogists while helping them make like-minded connections. Membership to the VGA is 100% free (can’t get much better than that), and members get discounts through certain vendors who have decided to partner with the association. They also have a Facebook page, which I am eager to become an active member on.
Elyse Doerfliger is a college-aged genealogist who has some really nice videos on YouTube. I have watched a bunch of them, and recommend that you do the same, especially if you are new to genealogy.
CanadaGenWeb for Kids Project: This site is a great resource for Canadian kids who are under 18 and interested in genealogy.
Do you know of any other resources for young genealogists? Please do share!