Finding Your Hispanic Roots
Readers interested in genealogical research will be pleased to know that much of the information contained in Ryskamp's classicTracing Your Hispanic Heritage(1984) is readily available again in an updated, revised version that addresses recent developments (computer applications, microfilming, development of family history centers, and the centralization of parish records, to name a few) and continues to provide an excellent introduction to genealogy in general and Hispanic genealogy in particular. The author teaches history at Brigham Young University and writes and lectures extensively on genealogical research.The first four chapters could serve as an introduction to anyone beginning to compile a family history, offering suggestions on where to begin, how to set up a filing system and understand the Sosa numbering system (a system devised by Spanish genealogist Jeronimo de Sosa in 1676 and later adopted worldwide), selecting a computer program, and using the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints family history centers. The remainder of the book explains specific aspects of research using Hispanic materials, including language and handwriting, naming systems, and records in Hispanic countries (civil, church, military, and notaries). There is a glossary and a directory of Hispanic genealogical societies in the U.S.The new version compresses nearly 1,000 pages of information plus new material into a 290-page paperback, which is less expensive and more portable than the 1984 work. However, libraries fortunate enough to own copies of the 1984 work will want to consider keeping it for its durable binding in a larger format and its wealth of sample letters and explanatory material.Libraries should also consider acquiring Paula Byer'sHispanic American Genealogical Sourcebook[RBB My 15 95], which features an extensive directory of sources of Hispanic genealogical information, including libraries, archives, public and private organizations, print sources, and other media.