How to research your family history when you're adopted?

Question

i know certain things like my biological grandfather's last name, my father's last name. i even know my biological grandmother, but she really won't talk to me about it in detail and i've been asking her for years. i can't figure out why. i know so little information. what can i do? i've always been curious to find out.

Answer 1

Create a chart of what you do know.  Then, start with local public records.  

There may be good reasons, emotionally, why your biological grandmother has chosen not to discuss the matter.  People should be allowed to make choices.  It may be no big deal in today's society but from her perspective it could be something shameful or hurtful.  You just never know.

If you want to continue with this, try and be discreet until you can figure out some of the basic facts so you are broadsided by people who don't understand your own need to know.

Adoption for some people is a very touchy subject.  But, it doesn't sound like your adoption was totally closed so legally you should be able to find some of the info you are looking for.  Once you get back before the 1930's you should be able to start using census records to find the info you want.