Professional genealogist and family historian, Phyllis Zumwalt, understands the complexity of tracing family roots. Through this Shaping Your Family Tree (SYFT) website, she reveals methods for planning research tasks and conducting searches, provides valuable global sources she has uncovered, and offers consulting services and education to help you along your research journey.

Phyllis’ primary mission is to spark an interest in genealogy. Younger children can learn the structure of a family (ancestorial) unit and how to handle basic interview techniques in questioning their elders. Older researchers who appreciate the joy in uncovering details about their ancestors, where they lived, what they did and more, are encouraged to explore new methods and techniques to solve the mysteries.

Phyllis and her team enjoy their passion with genealogy. Let us help you in discovering this joy, too!

Phyllis’ journey began at a young age (about 12), interviewing her great-grandmother, Edith Mae Russell “Nanny”, who lived with Phyllis’ family. As part of a Girl Scout badge requirement, the interview resulted in a typed version of the ancestors Nanny shared with Phyllis. The joy Nanny felt and the excitement Phyllis had in completing the project stayed with her. Recently, Phyllis returned to college and earned a Master of Science in Genealogical, Paleographic & Heraldic Studies (below). She enjoys working with clients to solve their mysteries, teaching seniors in the local Austin, Texas metroplex, and sharing the joy of ancestral research.