Five Star Gift Ideas

For your grandpa who loves genealogy and ancestral research, there are several thoughtful and meaningful gift ideas that can enhance his passion and help him delve deeper into his family history. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Ancestry DNA Kit: Gift him an Ancestry DNA kit to help him explore his ethnic origins and discover potential relatives. This can be a fascinating and engaging way for him to connect with long-lost family members and expand his family tree.

2. Family Tree Software: Consider gifting him a subscription or software that offers robust features for creating, storing, and organizing family trees. Programs like MyHeritage, Ancestry.com, or Legacy Family Tree provide comprehensive tools to document and share family history.

3. Family History Book: Help him preserve and share his genealogical findings by creating a personalized family history book. Gather photographs, stories, and documents from various generations, and compile them into a beautiful, professionally printed book.

4. DNA Testing and Research Guidebooks: There are several guidebooks available that can help him deepen his understanding of genealogical research techniques and DNA testing. Some popular options include "The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy" by Blaine T. Bettinger and "Genetic Genealogy in Practice" by Blaine T. Bettinger and Debbie Parker Wayne.

5. Subscription to Genealogy Websites: Consider gifting him a subscription to popular genealogy websites like Ancestry.com, Fold3, or MyHeritage. These websites provide access to a vast collection of historical records, census data, and other resources that can aid in his research.

6. A Local Historical Journey: Organize a day trip or weekend getaway to a location associated with his family heritage. This could involve visiting ancestral towns, cemeteries, libraries, or historical archives. Spending quality time together while immersing yourselves in family history will be a meaningful experience for both of you.

7. Genealogy Society Membership: If your grandpa is not already a member, consider gifting him a membership to a local or online genealogy society. This will provide him with opportunities to network with other genealogists, attend workshops, and gain access to valuable resources.

8. Customized Family Tree Chart: Create a personalized family tree chart or poster, highlighting his ancestral lineage. There are various websites and services that allow you to design and print customized family tree charts with different styles and formats.

9. Research Assistance: Offer your assistance in his genealogical research by volunteering to help him with record searches, organization, or transcriptions. Spending quality time together and delving into family history can be a memorable and bonding experience.

10. Interview Recording Device: Gift him a device specifically designed for recording interviews, such as a digital voice recorder or a smartphone app. Encourage him to interview elder family members and capture their stories and memories. These personal accounts become invaluable resources for preserving family history.

Remember, the key to finding the perfect gift is to show your thoughtfulness, support his passion, and help him deepen his connection to his family heritage. By selecting a gift that aligns with his interests in genealogy and ancestral research, you will undoubtedly make this Christmas a memorable one for your grandpa.

Or you can get him a star map with an important date you share.

Elaine Bornemeier says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“These are fabulous. They are gifts, so excited for my daughters to receive them for Christmas! Thank you!”