My family history research begins . . .

The anticipated release of the 1930 U.S. census records in April 2002 spurred my interest in family history. I began to scour the internet for any information regarding my ancestors. I found my first clue on FamilySearch, the genealogical website developed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). A quick search for my grandparents resulted in the discovery of a Pedigree Resource File (PRF) submitted in 1999. The file contained a collection of family groups and lineages which appeared to include my maternal grandfather, Edgar Anthony Connelly.

Some data in the PFR agreed with details I was told by my mother, such as when and where he died as well as the name of my grandmother, Julia White. However, when, where and to whom he was born I had not previously known.

Thus began a new hobby, which has captivated me for nearly two decades.