What Is a Family Tree?

A family tree is a visual or written representation of a family’s lineage, tracing relationships across multiple generations. Building a family tree is one of the most popular applications of genealogical research, and vital records are the primary documents used to verify family connections.

How Vital Records Help Build a Family Tree

Vital records provide verified, official information that is essential for accurate genealogical research. Each type of vital record contributes key details: birth certificates confirm parentage, dates, and places of birth; death certificates provide dates of death, cause, and often list parents’ names; marriage certificates link two families together and document name changes; and divorce certificates clarify the end of marital relationships.

How to Access Vital Records for Genealogy

Access to vital records for genealogy purposes varies by state. Many states have restrictions on who can request records and how old a record must be before it becomes publicly available. Recent records are typically restricted to immediate family members, while older records may be available through state archives, county clerks, or online databases. Some states allow non-family members to request informational (non-certified) copies for genealogical purposes.

Getting Started with Your Family Tree

To begin building your family tree, start with what you know — your own vital records and those of close family members — and work backward through the generations using certified copies and historical records.