First generation immigrants tend to cling to their culture by speaking the language, preparing special dishes and maintaining other traditions.

But how do second and third generations hang on to their heritage?

Many Americans are researching their lineage through a raft of genealogical services on the Internet.

But for Puerto Ricans in the United States, tracing the family tree presents unique challenges.

As descendants of African, Spanish, and Taino Indian cultures they must sift through family folklore and legions of documents to understand their identity.

On a recent Sunday afternoon East Harlem, about 30 people attended a workshop sponsored by the Hispanic Genealogical Society of New York to help Puerto Ricans and other Latinos trace their ancestry.