HAYDEN - Reaching into the past to discover long-lost relatives can be difficult without the proper resources.

That's why genealogist Kim Morgan is presenting "Finding Your Ancestors," a series of free genealogical research workshops held once a month at the Hayden Public Library.

"It makes you want to learn more history," said Morgan, program director and Daughters of the American Revolution member.

About 20 people attended Saturday's workshop, "Finding Your Ancestors: Scoundrels, Misfits and Other Colorful Ancestors." Attendees discussed genealogy research methods as well as some of the interesting links they have found within their family trees. Morgan provided the group with useful tools, such as advanced-search Internet tips and ideas to expand research.

"I think people have a need to know their roots," said Connie Godak of Hayden. "Whether for good or ill, we need to know what we're made of, and where we came from."

When asked about having scoundrels, misfits and ancestors with rebellious natures in the family, Godak laughed.

"They're everywhere," she said. "Everybody's got one somewhere."

Godak, director of the Hayden Lake Family History Center, said there are millions of reasons why people should be interested in learning their family's past.

"One of the things that I've seen people benefit from is knowing their medical ancestory," she said. Godak said her family shares an uncommon blood mutation, and researching the connected deaths in her bloodline actually saved her life.

"I had some tests done that made all the difference," she said. "The doctor said, 'you do have a mutation.'"

Godak and Martha West of Coeur d'Alene paired up during a few minutes of brainstorming to discuss alternative sources for historical information. West said she found a connection in her family tree to Jonathan Edwards, a prominent figure associated with the Great Awakening of the 18th century.

"We don't really understand how blessed we are until we understand how they lived every day," she said.

The workshops are geared toward helping people acquire information about their ancestors and preparing them for compiling, documenting and even writing their own family histories. Morgan said the interest in genealogy is much deeper than simple a curiosity or hobby.

"It's a spiritual thing," she said. "It's a part of self-definition. It's a part of knowing who we are, where we came from, why we are the way we are, and it's understanding that remembering generations past is recognizing what they have done to keep this country what it is."

Workshop participant Richard Centola of Hayden echoed this sentiment.

"I believe it's a personal, cultural awareness of who we are at the core, our roots," he said. "By being aware, it allows us to appreciate all the trials, tribulations, successes, of our past."

The next workshop, "Finding Your Ancestors: The Stories We Must Write" will be Feb. 8 from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Hayden Library. Morgan will also be teaching a North Idaho College course, "Get That Family History Written," beginning in March. Info: 664-3420