Five Star Gift Ideas

For your son who is passionate about genealogy research and family tree building, there are several meaningful and personal gift ideas you could consider to enhance his hobby and make his Christmas extra special.

1. Ancestry DNA Kit: This could be a perfect gift for your son as it not only provides him with the opportunity to learn more about his own genetic ancestry but also helps him connect with relatives he may not have known existed. Ancestry DNA Kits provide detailed ethnicity estimates and matches with other individuals who have taken the test, making it a fascinating tool for genealogists.

2. Genealogy Software: Invest in high-quality genealogy software such as Ancestry.com or Heritage Collector Suite, which will enable your son to organize, record, and research his family tree more efficiently. These software programs offer numerous advanced features, connecting him to a vast database of historical records, allowing him to create visually appealing charts, and helping him collaborate with other genealogy enthusiasts.

3. Research Trip: Consider organizing a research trip for your son to visit significant places related to his family history. Whether it's visiting ancestral homes, cemeteries, or libraries with relevant archives, this experience would not only help him deepen his knowledge but also create lifelong memories. Ensure that you plan the trip thoroughly, including visits to key locations and time for him to do research.

4. Books on Genealogy: There is a wealth of literature on genealogy and family history that your son might find fascinating. Look for highly rated books such as "The Family Tree Toolkit: A Comprehensive Guide to Uncovering Your Ancestry and Researching Genealogy" by Kenyatta Berry or "Genealogy Online For Dummies" by Matthew L. Helm and April Leigh Helm. These books can provide valuable knowledge and tips for his research process.

5. Personalized Family Tree Artwork: Commission a local artist to create a personalized artwork depicting your son's family tree. This unique and meaningful piece would not only make his hobby more visually appealing but also serve as a beautiful decoration for his home. You can customize the artwork by including names, birth dates, and even photographs of his family members.

6. Genealogy DNA Research Guide: Gift your son with a comprehensive DNA research guidebook that walks him through the process of utilizing DNA results for genealogical research. Look for books like "The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy" by Blaine T. Bettinger, an authoritative guide on understanding and interpreting DNA results.

7. Subscription to Genealogy Websites: Consider gifting your son a subscription to popular genealogy websites such as Ancestry.com, MyHeritage, or Findmypast. These platforms offer vast collections of historical records, access to family trees of other users, and the opportunity to connect with distant relatives. Subscriptions will allow him to delve deeper into his research and expand his family tree.

Remember, the most important aspect of any gift is that it comes from the heart and shows thoughtfulness. Tailor your choice to your son's specific interests, and he is sure to appreciate your effort to support his passion for genealogy research and family tree building.

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.”