Welcome to Family Finds
An Adventure in Genealogy
In addition to stories about my ancestors, I share tips for conducting online family history research. Genealogy is a great pastime, join me on my journey to uncover and document my ancestors’ lives.

Land
While researching ancestors living in Colonial Virginia during the 17th century, I found several records of land grants.
Air
During World War II my father, Bob LaFara, was a crew member on a B24 bomber in the South Pacific. The crew was part of the US Army Air Corps’ 819th Bomb Squadron.
Fire
Family legend holds that my 3rd great grandfather witnessed the famed Battle of Baltimore at Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. Can I prove it really happened?
Water
My mother tells a story about her maternal grandfather asking her to bring a cold cup of water from the well.
Nearly Forgotten
When I research an ancestor who has very few identifiable records, I think how sad that they are lost to history, or nearly forgotten. George Koontz, 1806-18??, is one…
Luck
I wonder how my ancestors avoided becoming infected with the 1918 influenza. Would it be luck?
Strong Woman
My great grandmother, Ella Anne Rumple 1867-1962, experienced many hard times, she was a woman who drew on her experience to keep her family together, a strong woman.
Family Disaster
A family disaster can happen in the blink of an eye. The tragic loss of a parent can change everything for a child, and their descendants.
Favorite Discovery
My favorite discovery is finding the common ancestors shared by my parents. Don’t be alarmed, the common ancestors are 10 generations removed.
Same Name
I get excited when I discover an ancestor with the same name as a friend, or co-worker, or neighbor. Maybe we are related!