Five Star Gift Ideas

For a son who is passionate about genealogy and tracing the family tree, there are several meaningful and personal gift ideas that can enhance his passion and provide him with tools to delve deeper into his research and heritage. Here are a few suggestions:

1. DNA Ancestry Test Kit: A DNA test kit is an excellent gift for someone interested in genealogy. It can provide your son with insights into his ethnic background, genetic health markers, and potential matches with distant relatives. Companies like AncestryDNA and 23andMe offer comprehensive DNA testing services that can help him expand his family tree even further.

2. Ancestry Subscription: Subscribing to Ancestry.com or similar genealogy websites can give your son access to an extensive collection of historical records, documents, and family trees. With a subscription, he can explore and unearth information about his ancestors, connect with other genealogists, and expand his research beyond what he might find with traditional means.

3. Personalized Family Tree Poster: Gift your son a personalized family tree poster, beautifully designed and printed. It can serve as a visual representation of his genealogical research and be a great conversation starter when displayed in his home. Look for online services that allow you to input your family data and create a customized and visually appealing family tree chart.

4. Genealogy Software: There are numerous genealogy software options available that can help your son organize and document his research. Software programs like Legacy Family Tree, Family Tree Maker, or Gramps provide features such as creating family trees, storing documents and photos, and tracking sources and citations. Choose a software package that aligns with his needs and preferences.

5. Books on Genealogy and Family History: Expand your son's genealogical knowledge by gifting him books on the subject. Look for titles that cover different aspects of genealogy, such as methodology, record-keeping, or specific regions or ethnic groups. Some recommended titles include "The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy" by Blaine T. Bettinger, or "Evidence Explained: Citing History Sources from Artifacts to Cyberspace" by Elizabeth Shown Mills.

6. Research Trip or Subscription to Genealogical Societies: If your budget permits, consider surprising your son with a research trip to a location of significant ancestral importance. Visiting archives, libraries, or even ancestral homelands can be a unique and enriching experience. Alternatively, you can gift him a subscription to genealogical societies or local historical societies to further support his research efforts and provide access to exclusive resources and events.

Remember, when selecting a gift for your son, consider his specific needs and interests within genealogy. The goal is to provide him with tools, resources, and experiences that will inspire and enhance his passion for tracing the family tree.

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.”