I'm a beginner at this genealogy stuff and already I'm finding out that it can be very difficult and frustrating - and I'm one of the lucky ones with lots of pictures and information available to me! As I've been poking around on the web, though, I've noticed that a lot of the websites devoted to genealogy are not very useful. Anyway, I have compiled a short list of some of the websites that have actually led me somewhere and here they are:

General Sites:

Genealogy at the NARA Archives - This site has been redesigned since I last accessed it. The National Archives and Records Administration is the place to get your relatives' military records. There are two different locations to request records from, depending on the date the individual left the service, make sure you read carefully so that you get the form you want. While your here, be sure to check out the Exibit Hall where you can view the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. These are why your ancestors came here. Make sure you read them!

American Family Immigration History Center at ellisisland.org - Okay, this is an excellent site, but it is exceptionally popular. Try accessing this site during early morning hours, or late at night. So far, it is unable to handle the amount of traffic it's getting. Definitely worth persuing.

GenealogySpot.com - this is a great place to begin any search. The surname search is especially useful.

RootsWeb - this is another good place to begin.

The Social Security Death Index - anyone who has died and had a social security number is listed here. Remember, though, social security did not begin until the 1930's, so anyone who died before that time period will not be listed. Also, even after social security began, not everyone had a social security number. Nevertheless, this is great for retrieving birthdates and deathdates.