Five Star Gift Ideas

For your grandson who has a keen interest in genealogy, there are several meaningful and personal gift ideas to consider for his birthday. These suggestions will not only support his passion for exploring family history but also provide him with tools and resources to delve deeper into his genealogical pursuits.

1. Ancestry DNA Kit: Give your grandson the opportunity to explore his genetic heritage with an Ancestry DNA Kit. This gift will provide him with insightful and accurate information about his ethnic background and potential matches with relatives he may not have known existed. It's an excellent starting point for any genealogist and can open doors to further research.

2. Genealogy Software: Consider gifting your grandson genealogy software that can help him organize and manage the vast amount of information he collects during his research. There are various options available, such as Legacy Family Tree, Family Tree Maker, or Gramps (a free open-source software). These tools will assist him in creating comprehensive family trees, recording historical events, and storing documents and images.

3. Family History Book: Help your grandson preserve and share his family history by gifting him a personalized family history book. You can work together to compile photographs, stories, and genealogical information, or you can hire a professional genealogist to create a custom book. This gift will not only provide him with a tangible record of his family's past but also be a treasured keepsake for future generations.

4. Genealogy Books and Magazines: Expand your grandson's knowledge and understanding of genealogy by gifting him books and magazines on the subject. Look for popular titles like "The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy" by Blaine T. Bettinger or "Genealogy Basics In 30 Minutes" by Shannon Combs-Bennett. These resources will offer valuable insights, research techniques, and tips to enhance his genealogical pursuits.

5. Membership to Genealogical Societies: Consider purchasing a membership to local or national genealogical societies for your grandson. These societies often offer access to exclusive databases, webinars, workshops, and networking opportunities with fellow genealogists. Membership can significantly enhance his research capabilities, provide mentorship, and help him connect with others who share his passion.

6. Historical Maps and Documents: Explore antique shops or online marketplaces to find historical maps or documents related to your grandson's family history. Finding old land records, census data, or photographs can be exciting and provide important clues to unlock hidden stories from the past. Such artifacts make unique and cherished gifts for any genealogy enthusiast.

7. Research Assistance: If your grandson has hit a roadblock or is struggling with a particular aspect of his genealogical research, you could offer your support by hiring a genealogist to help him overcome the challenge. Professionals can provide guidance, conduct specialized research, or teach him new techniques to further his investigations.

Remember to accompany any material gifts with heartfelt encouragement and acknowledgment of your grandson's passion for genealogy. Your support and recognition will undoubtedly mean a lot to him as he embarks on this journey to discover his family's past.

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.”