How do I find my family's history online for free?

Question:

How do I find my family's history online for free?

My Great-Grandfather immigrated from Scotland as a child at the turn of the century (with his family). Before coming to Canada, they lived briefly in South Africa. (Possibly went there in connection with the Boer wars? But not really sure.) I have spent hours, days, weeks on the web, looking for info on them, but can't find anything. Any advice?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Hey Mama Dee,

Genealogy is an expensive hobby. There are free sites, and you can get some free information, but Genealogy - good Genealogy - is based on Vital Records. Those cost money. To organize your data, you need software (some free, to $30.00). Many sites give you information, but if you want all the information, you pay. But, that said, there are tidbits of information available on the internet. Here are some of the best sites, closest to free as it gets.

Note that you can get free time on pay sites with the purchase of software. Just shut off the pay site prior to them billing you.