When you finally start, the best place to get information is the library. Most Libraries offer some kind of genealogy programs. It is worth getting a library card so that you can start your reach, and there might be a person there that can help you it you need assistance. So what can you find in a library? Also everything!
Genealogy programs
They will have several programs that you can choose from.
Ancestry
Family Search
My Heritage
Find My Past
Telephone books
Local phone books will have family members listed, if this is the place where they lived. Some libraries will have books from other states.
Maps
Maps from surrounding areas will help you find out where your family members lived. Boundaries - where are the railroad tracks, Good part of town vs. Bad part of town.
Weather reports
What was the weather like when your relatives lived in the area. Did it flood, was there a dust storm, hurricane, drought. Where they farmers?
Cemeteries
Local cemeteries are easy to find if they have been there for years. But there could be some that are not in existence anymore. Your library might be able to help you find out where they are.
Businesses
Seeing what kind of business will help you get a feel of what was going on in the area. Look for old pictures of the area. What did items cost during that time?
Schools
Old yearbooks will hold pictures of past family members. It will let you see what there dreams where, and where they might be going.
