Five Star Gift Ideas

For your son who is passionate about genealogy and tracing family history, there are several meaningful gift ideas that can help him delve deeper into his favorite hobby. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Ancestry DNA kit: Ancestry DNA kits are a popular and practical gift for individuals interested in genealogy. They allow your son to uncover his ethnic origins and connect with potential relatives he might not have known about. The results can provide him with valuable insights into his family's past and help him expand his family tree.

2. Subscription to a genealogy website: There are several online platforms dedicated to genealogy research, such as Ancestry.com or MyHeritage. Subscribing your son to one of these websites would give him access to an extensive collection of historical records, family trees, and other helpful resources, enabling him to further explore his family history.

3. Personalized family tree chart: Consider gifting your son a personalized family tree chart that he can proudly display on his wall. There are various designs available online, from intricate hand-drawn charts to more modern and minimalist digital prints. You can customize it with your family's names, dates, and even photographs, making it a unique and sentimental gift.

4. Genealogy software: If your son enjoys organizing and documenting his genealogical findings, he might appreciate genealogy software such as Family Tree Maker or Legacy Family Tree. These programs offer advanced tools for tracking and visualizing family relationships, digitizing historical documents, and sharing research with others. They could provide him with a comprehensive and efficient way of managing his genealogy projects.

5. Books on genealogy and family history: Expand your son's knowledge and inspiration with books that delve into different aspects of genealogy. Whether it's a guidebook on research techniques or a memoir about someone's journey into their family's past, there is a wealth of literature available. Look for titles like "Genealogy for Dummies" by Matthew L. Helm and April Leigh Helm or "The Family Tree Toolkit" by Kenyatta D. Berry.

6. Research trip or membership to a local historical society: If your son enjoys hands-on research and immersing himself in historical records, consider gifting him a trip to a location with ancestral significance. Whether it's a visit to an archive in a different city or a journey to the country where your family roots began, a research trip can provide him with valuable experiences and connections. Alternatively, a membership to a local historical society can grant him access to resources, workshops, and networking opportunities.

Remember, the most memorable gifts are often the ones that show thoughtfulness and personalization. Consider your son's specific interests within genealogy and choose a gift that aligns with them. With any of these ideas, you'll be supporting his passion and helping him further explore his family history.

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

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”