Five Star Gift Ideas

For your dad, who has a passion for genealogy and tracing family history, there are many meaningful and personalized gift ideas that will celebrate his interests and help him continue his research. Here are a few ideas to consider:

1. DNA Testing Kit: A DNA testing kit can provide your dad with a comprehensive analysis of his ancestral background and help him connect with distant relatives. Companies like AncestryDNA or 23andMe offer easy-to-use kits that provide detailed information about ethnicity, genetic traits, and potential matches with other people in their database.

2. Subscription to Genealogy Websites: Consider gifting your dad a subscription to popular genealogy websites like Ancestry.com or MyHeritage. With access to extensive databases, historical records, and family tree building tools, these platforms can assist him in his quest to trace and uncover his family's history.

3. Personalized Family Tree Artwork: Commission a custom-made family tree artwork that showcases your dad's genealogical discoveries. This can be a beautiful visual representation of his research, displaying names, dates, and photographs of ancestors in a unique and artistic way.

4. One-on-One Genealogy Consultation: Arrange a consultation with a professional genealogist who can assist your dad in exploring his family history further. These experts can provide guidance on research techniques, offer insights into relevant historical sources, and help him overcome any obstacles he may encounter along the way.

5. Personalized Family History Book: Compile your dad's genealogical findings into a beautifully designed and personalized family history book. Include photographs, stories, and documents from his research to create a treasured keepsake that can be passed down through future generations.

6. Gift Certificate for Historical Archives or Libraries: If your dad enjoys doing his own research, provide him with a gift certificate to access local historical archives or libraries. This will allow him to explore original records, newspapers, and other valuable resources that may not be available online.

7. Genealogy Software: Invest in genealogy software, such as Legacy Family Tree or Family Tree Maker, to help your dad organize and document his research more efficiently. These programs provide tools for constructing family trees, adding historical context, and managing multiple branches of the family.

8. Family History Tour: Plan a trip to a location of ancestral significance. Whether it's a visit to the town where his grandparents grew up or exploring the old family farm, this hands-on experience will allow your dad to walk in the footsteps of his ancestors and connect with his family's roots.

9. Oral History Kit: Encourage your dad to record the stories and memories of older family members by gifting him an oral history kit. This could include a voice recorder, question prompts, and a guidebook on preserving family stories. Capturing these precious moments will help preserve family history for future generations.

10. Attend a Genealogy Conference or Workshop: Check for upcoming genealogy conferences or workshops in your area or online. Purchase tickets for your dad to attend and further enhance his knowledge and skills in genealogy. These events often offer educational sessions, networking opportunities, and access to expert speakers.

Remember, the most important thing is to acknowledge and support your dad's passion for genealogy with a thoughtful gift that will deepen his connection to his family's history. By choosing a present that aligns with his interests, you are not only celebrating his love for genealogy but also showing your appreciation for his personal journey of discovery.

Or you can get him a star map with the date when he was born.

Bridget Shields says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“I wanted a keepsake to give to my father for his birthday as he has terminal cancer. He was delighted by his gift. The process of ordering was easy and delivery was prompt. A great gift idea.”