Talking with Family Members
The best way to begin researching your Chinese roots is to talk to family members.
Even if you have talked to your family in the past, you may have more insights to discovery by following this methodical way.
How do I start?
Some questions to consider:
Did you come prepared with a list of questions?
Did you make an audio (or video) recording?
Did you summarize all the key information in a document or research log?
If your answer to any of the above questions is "no" you may want to interview them again.
Upload a recording
Whom Should I Interview?
Everyone can help, but the best sources are the oldest family members—they're more likely to have valuable insights into your family's past.
Before concluding, ask who else you should interview. Always seek more people to talk to—listen and keep the conversation going.
Additional Questions?
What if I don't know any relatives?
If you don't know any relatives, DNA tests and document research (such as adoption papers) may help. Don't quit.
Start Your SearchWhen should I start?
The oldest family members likely hold the best information—don't delay. Start interviewing now to gather stories, facts, and documents before it's too late.
Document the storiesPro TipYou Will Get Better Results if You Break Your Process Into 2 Parts.
Make a prioritized list of anyone who might have information about your family. (Hint: Interview older people first.)
Contact family members, and begin interviewing.
Breaking it into 2 parts helps avoid focusing only on close family, ensuring you also interview distant relatives with important information.
What Should I Ask?
You want to learn as much as you can about your family, but to research your Chinese roots, the 2 main things you need to know are:
Your Surname
Your Ancestral Village
Here's a List of of 21 Suggested Interview Questions.
Customize your questions based on whom you're interviewing and what you already know. But don't skip any questions, even if you think you know the answer—you may be surprised.
Hearts, Not Charts
It's about connecting with your family, not just filling in charts. Ask personal questions like:
What was family dinner like?
Did you have a childhood nickname?
Who was your best friend? Do you have any stories to share?
What did your childhood home look like?
These questions spark memories and uncover stories to pass down.
Should I Record The Interview?
Record the interview to capture information accurately and create a family treasure for future generations.
Record My Story
Record StoryAny initial awkwardness will fade quickly. Use free apps or FamilySearch's Record My Story feature for easy audio recording with helpful prompts.