For Your Family Story

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 20:41:00 +0000

For Your Family Story has moved...
to it's own domain on a different platform. Please visit:

http://www.4yourfamilystory.com/

See you there!
~Caroline

Sorry Charlie

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 22:45:00 +0000

I know. It's been a while. However, I'm making changes and updates on the site to include my professional services. I thought it would go hand-in-hand with the helpful hints and how-tos.

Let's face it. Not everyone has the time or inclination to do genealogical research. But that doesn't mean they aren't interested in knowing about their families. Right?

Image by kevindooley via FlickrMy main goal, though, for this site is still the same. To get people motivated to look. With more people looking and adding what they know to the cloud of information on the internet, there's bound to be more brick walls tumbling down.

Add to that some instruction for sound researching and citation, and, folks, we are all winners, not just Charlie Sheen. [Sorry. Couldn't resist.]

So, whether you're looking for some how-tos on genealogical researching or whether you're looking for someone to do the genealogical research for you, I hope you'll let me help.

Remember. It's still under construction. Yes, the header will be changing. Soon. But take a look around at the new tabs. And feel free to give me some suggestions in comments below to make things better.

~Caroline

What Are We Here For, Again?

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 20:21:00 +0000

Well, we're trying to get organized. Have you set-up your IRL [in real life] folders? Remember, any way you set them up is fine as long as it works for you. And by "works" I mean you stay organized and you're using it. It doesn't work if you don't use it. [Like a lot of things in life.]

The next step is to get our digital files set-up. We're going to basically use the same division in paperwork and/or documents as we did in our IRL files. There are 2 additions that I would suggest: (1) to separate the birth and death records, and (2) to add one for photos. Why didn't we include "photos" in our IRL folders? Because [if you're lucky], that can become voluminous in our surname notebooks and/or file folders. Plus, we're going to want to learn how best to archive our photos. Keeping them with your research is not the best way to archive them. Digitally, we don't have these problems. So go ahead and include them here.

The basic organization of these files should look something like this:

My Documents
Surname [e.g., SMITH]

Research Plans
Reference Materials
Maps
Family Charts/Reports
Correspondence
Locale History
Census Records
Land Records
Marriage Records
Tax Records
Probate Records
Cemetery Records
Church Records
Military Records
Birth Records
Death Records
Immigration & Naturalization
Photos

Feel free to put them in any order that you want. Also, within each main division of paperwork and/or documents, we can then make another level of division by given name. Like this:

My Documents
   SMITH
Research Plans
         Martha Jane
   William Andrew
         Thomas I
   Thomas II
      Reference Materials
Maps
      Family Charts/Reports
Correspondence
      Locale History
      Land Records
      Marriage Records
   Martha Jane
   William Andrew
       Thomas I
   Thomas II
      Tax Records
      Probate Records
      Cemetery Records
      Church Records
      Military Records
      Birth Records
      Death Records
      Immigration & Naturalization
      Photos

The alternative way to organize this would be to organize the given names under the surnames, then divide into the paperwork/documents. It's really up to you on how you want to do this. I, personally, like my computer files to mirror my IRL files as much as possible, so I organize by given names last.

Really, one could go on and on and on with this whole organization stuff and never really get to the researching, which is, if you remember, what we are here for. [I kid you not.] Just know that whatever system you come up with is good if it allows you to keep the results of your research in a such a way that you can retrieve it when you need it.

These last 2 posts covered how to organize information that we find while researching. The next posts will have suggestions on how to be organized while looking for the information. Then we'll touch upon archiving suggestions for photos and documents. [No, they can't stay on your dining room table in that dusty, torn-up cardboard box.] Then maybe, just maybe, we'll get to that researching. I'm just kidding. We'll get to the researching. Online. And offline. In the mean time, get your folders created ~the IRL [in real life] ones & the digital ones. Then you can start filing any paperwork/documents that you may have and/or if you've already started researching, then start filing those results. Any questions?

Filing Quandaries & Hybrids

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 05:15:00 +0000

Are you ready to get organized? Even if you are never organized in anything else you do, you must try to be organized in doing genealogy research. As mentioned in the previous posts, there are 2 major divisions of organization:

Information that you are looking for, and...
Information that you find.

And there are 2 general places you need to get organized in before researching:

Online
Offline

Today we're going to go over the organizational tips for the information that you find, and how you organize it offline. There are those who praise the virtues of the file cabinet method, and there are those who swear by the notebook method. While I'm a proponent of the notebook method myself, I'm really all for whatever method is gonna work for you. Whichever one you are going to use is good. You know what you like, and far be it for me to push my system on you. 'Cause if you're like me, the instant someone wants you to do something their way for no particular reason other than they think their way is better, then you'll do the opposite.

Anywho, I actually use a hybrid of the two systems. How's that for being diplomatic? I told you I didn't like someone forcing something on me just because they thought their way was superior. I showed them. I created a hybrid system. [Stubborness can breed ingenuity.] Basically, both systems are the same. First, I'll explain how they are the same. And then I'll explain how I've adapted them for my use.

Overall, you'll want to organize all your paperwork by surname. So for example, if you are researching the names Smith, Davis, Johnson, and Vaughn, then you'll divide your paperwork first by these names.

Then, within each surname, you'll want to divide your paperwork between the types of paperwork. For example, Birth, Death, Marriage, Land, etc. Some researchers would suggest that you don't need this particular level of organization yet, and to keep everything together in the surname division. My suggestion is to be ready for the paperwork so you don't have to stop later and divide it up. We already know that we'll be looking for and hopefully finding this paperwork. And it's best to be prepared.

Now if you plan to use a hanging file cabinet or a plastic file box with hanging file folders, then this would be my suggestion on how to organize it. Use the hanging file folders and the tabs that came with them to make your surname division. Using the names above, you'd have a hanging folder for Smith, one for Davis, one for Johnson, and one for Vaughn. You most certainly will need more hanging folders that aren't marked in between the ones that are marked with a surname so that as you gather information and paperwork, you'll be able to expand each surname.

Now, everyone divides and files the types of documents and paperwork differently. Again do what's best for you. I have come up with the following 16 divisions:

Research Plans
Reference Materials
Maps
Family Charts & Reports
Correspondence
Locale History
Census Records
Land Records
Marriage Records
Tax Records
Probate Records
Cemetery Records
Church Records
Military Records
Birth/Death Records
Immigration & Naturalization

So, you would next label 16 file folders with the above types of records. And then as you accumulate these records, notes, reports, documents, etc., you can simply place them in the corresponding folder. Later, you'll need to alphabetize by first name as you accumulate more paperwork until you have so much that it's necessary to dedicate a complete file folder to one person.

The notebook method is similar, but instead of using a cabinet, you use shelves [or the floor, or any flat service...]. And instead of using a hanging file folder for each surname, you use a notebook for each surname, labeling it on the spine with the surname. Then you use dividers with tabs for each of the types of records listed above. Later, additional notebooks will be needed for each surname. There are 16 different dividers that need to be labeled, so 2 packs of the 8-tab dividers is needed for each notebook.

I use the notebook method for the most part, but because of the amount of paperwork that I deal with and my ~~hate of filing~~ lack of time for filing, I've since added a plastic filing crate with surnames, and that helps me to keep things straight until I ~~break down~~ have time to file. Why 16 divisions? Simple. I'm cheap. Dividers with tabs come with 5-tabs or 8-tabs. I originally had 18 divisions, but didn't like having to buy 3 8-tab dividers, so I combined some. It stills serves me well, though.

So. It's up to you on how you want to do it. And while you can certainly start searching for your ancestors before being ready to handle the paperwork you find, it's not advised. Just pick a way and do it. It's much easier on you in the long run if you are prepared for your ancestors. And all their secrets. And, of course, their stories.

Any ideas on how you're filing your research paperwork or how you plan to do it? Any questions? Let me know in comments below.

Instant Replay Sunday: Bunnies & Fairies

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 05:24:00 +0000

All right! A second week has gone by, and it was busy. So, what did we do?

Monday - "I know My Pedigree. Do you?" Millie, my Pug, showed us how genealogy research is a lot like building a house, and without the pedigree chart [framework], your family tree will be just a pile of names and dates [boards and nails].

Tuesday - "Lists, Beggars, & Being Picky" We went over how how you need to make a list and check it twice so you can find out who ~~has a ll the juicy stories~~ will visit and share with you to help you fill-out the blanks in your pedigree chart.

Wednesday - "Visiting & Sharing Over Interviewing" Here's where we learned that maybe shining a spotlight in your family member's face and firing-off questions to them like an AK-47 is probably not a good idea when trying to make them feel comfortable so they'll share what they know with you.

Thursday - "What To Ask?" This is where we learned what kinds of questions ask that will help your family member open up and share with you. And that people like to talk about themselves. All you have to do is ask them.

Friday - "The Spice Fairy & Genealogy" Here's where we learned that maybe I shouldn't write late at night. Spice Fairy? Yes, I was able to make a connection between genealogy, research, and organization. Unbelievable. I know. Go check it out.

Saturday - "Jammies & Pink Bunny Slippers" And you thought the Spice Fairy was kind of weird? I topped it. And connected it to genealogy, research, and organization. [Will wonders ever cease?] You gotta read it to believe it.

So there you have it. A week of genealogical fun. Join us next week for more fun. What's planned? Organization. Organization. Organization. You either love it or hate it. We're going to try and make sense of it. [In our jammies and pink bunny slippers while eating spicy foods, of course. *wink*]

Jammies & Pink Bunny Slippers

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 04:58:00 +0000

Before the internet became such an integral part of genealogy and family history research, all research had to be done offline back before there was even a distinction between offline and online. [Shocker, I know.] People actually had to get dressed and go down to places like the libraries, the archives, and the courthouses. [That's right. No surfing the internet in your jammies and your pink bunny slippers.]

Now? Well, the the computer and internet have enhanced our ability to find information both online and offline.

But don't get suckered into believing that all your research can be done online. It can't. Let me repeat that. Not all your research can be done online. If you try researching this way, you are going to run into brick walls very quickly, get frustrated, and probably quit looking. Or settle for information that was found online, but not credible. Online and offline research work together to provide the most complete research experience.

Together "online and offline" are like...

The yin and the yang.
Salt and Pepper.
Sugar and spice.
Sonny and Cher.
The Captain and Tennille.
Cookies and Milk.
Chocolate and peanut butter.
Jammies and pink bunny slippers.

They belong together. Until, of course, every single document has been scanned and every family artifact has been photographed and every old photo has been scanned. Which, the chances of that happening are, um slim to none. [And Slim just left the room.] So, it would be more accurate to say that, today, genealogy and family history research is a hybrid type of research that involves combining offline and online resources.

And this hybrid approach has vastly influenced the way we organize our information, and can also be called hybrid as well ~ involving the computer and paper.

And all the information that you are looking for can be categorized in 2 ways:

Information that you are looking for and
Information that you find.

And each one can be broken down into online and offline resources and strategies.

So next week, starting on Monday, that's what we'll be going over. The first one will be how to organize your search online and your computer. Riveting. I know. But once we get it set-up, then it's just a matter of putting the paper and the file into the right folder. The real folder and the digital folder. And hey, don't forget. While going to the library in your jammies and pink bunny slippers is out of the question [No. Really it is.], you can always read my blog in them. [Really. I don't mind.]

The Spice Fairy & Genealogy

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 04:14:00 +0000

Have you ever gone to the grocery store without a list of the items you need? I do it all the time. Unfortunately. I don't know why I do this. It's unorganized and inefficient. As I proceed through the store, I always forget something. Then I have to backtrack to get the thing I wouldn't have forgotten to get if I had just made a list of the things I needed to get in the first place. It's aggravating to say the least. [Unless, of course, I bring my kids with me, in which case I just send them all over the store to get the things I forgot. But then I have to put up with their bickering.]

Anywho. What does this have to do with genealogy? Well, researching without a plan and some organization can be a lot like my grocery shopping ~~failures~~ adventures. A mess. [Especially since I've not recruited my kids to help me with genealogy research. Again. The bickering.]

Furthermore, are you one of those totally organized, anal people whose food pantry shelves look like the grocery store shelves? [Yeah. Me neither.] The one time I did alphabetize all my spices [I like my food spicy.], someone saw it, and looked at me like I had sprouted another head. And then asked, "Did you alphabetize your spices?" Which, if you kind of think about it, was a silly question because I obviously I had. And as I frantically rearranged my "ABC" spices, I replied, "No. I don't know how they got that way. Huh. Must've been a freaky coincidence. Or the Spice Fairy must have visited. Yeah, in the middle of the night. Um. Or something." And that was the end of that. [Of course, they probably thought I was crazy. Spice Fairy?]

And now you're wondering what the spice-genealogy connection is, right? While researching [whether online or offline], you need to be able to put your hands on what you need at the precise time you need it. Trust me on this. It happens all the time. There is nothing more frustrating than needing that one death index, that one birth certificate, or that one piece of correspondence to be able to verify that you have the correct person, and not being able to find it.

Very. Frustrating.

So, what's it going to take to get organized? Not much. You're just starting out. And it need not be a complicated-pull-out-your-hair-oh-great-now-I'm-bald experience. There will be some decisions to make on which system is best for you. Then, I'll give you my 2 cents worth. [And if you're like my kids, you'll ignore me. And do it your way. *wink*]

As you continue with your research, you'll probably want to change or modify your system. Why? Because the research that you are doing is a living, breathing thing.

That will grow.

That will expand.

Until one day, as you're looking through your research, you realize, "Wow. This is my family story."

So, over the next few posts we'll go through your options, step-by-step. I'm curious, though [which has served me well in researching]. Based on the research you've done so far [if any], how are you organizing your research? Are you happy with it? If you haven't started, how do you think you'll need to organize yourself? Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.

[Wow. Now I'm hungry. Let's see. Where did I put the spicy snacks?]

What To Ask?

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 03:46:00 +0000

So now you have a date set for a visit with your family member. [Check.] You know now that you'll be visiting and sharing with your relative and not interviewing. [Just nod your head.] So what do you ask to get your family member talking? Well, there are really no special magic questions that will help them to open up, but some questions are better than others. As mentioned in the previous post, try not to ask yes or no questions. If you have to, make sure you follow them up with additional questions on the topic. The most important thing to remember is to be comfortable and conversational. Because that's what you are doing. Conversing. Don't worry, though. Most people like to talk about themselves. [Just ask us.] Speaking of asking, the following are some questions to help you along your merry way down memory lane with your family member. It's not exhaustive, but it should give you enough examples to get you started.

Who you were named after? What nicknames did you go by? How did you get it? Did you like it?
Which schools did you attend, and what were they like? Who was your favorite teacher? And why were they your favorite? What was your favorite subject? Least favorite?
Where did you live when growing up - on a farm or in town? What did your house/apartment look like? If a farm, what kind? Where else, if any, did you live? Where did your family live before?
What was the name of your favorite pet while growing up? Why was it your favorite? Any special stories about your pet?
When you were a child, what kinds of games did you play? What kinds of toys did you have. What did you do for fun? Who was your best friend? Are you still in touch with them?
What kinds of chores did you have to do. Did you have a favorite? Least favorite?
[Especially for older family members:] Did you have a washing machine, a radio, a t.v., a car, or a phone? If they were purchased while you were growing up, what were your thoughts about them? Was it a big deal? Did they make life easier?
What were your parents like? Easy-going? Strict? What did you learn from them about life?
What do you remember about your grandparents? What were their names? Where did they live? Where did they come from? Any special stories about them? Did you ever know your great-grandparents? If so, what do you remember about them? Where did they live? Where did they come from?
What was you very first job? What did it entail? Did you like it? What other jobs did you have? Favorite, least favorite, and why? What made you choose the career path that you did? Are you happy with that decision?
What was the first car you ever owned? How much did it cost? How long did you have it? Whatever happened to it?
[If married:] How did you meet your spouse? What was the first thing you thought when you met him/her? What was your marriage proposal like? What kind of wedding did you have?
[If had children:] What are all your children's names [complete]? Who did you name your children after? Are they family names?
What presidents were in office in your lifetime? Which ones did you like? Dislike? What important world events happened in your lifetime?
If you had the chance to do things over again - to live your life over again - what would you do differently? What would you do the same?
What do you want to be remembered for? What do you want people to know about you?

There are many more questions you could ask, and even more ways to ask them. But the most important thing to remember is to keep them talking. As mentioned in the last post, photos and memorabilia are excellent conversation starters. Nothing jars the memory like the memory staring you in the face. So if your family member has them, let them show them to you. Let them show you their history. Let them share their family story.

Oh. And also for your convenience, you can print out this post or you can turn this post into a PDF document by clicking the green button below with the printer icon on it . [You're welcome.]

[Next post: Gettin' Organized. Are you ready? That's good. At least one of us is. *wink*]

Visiting & Sharing Over Interviewing

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 02:13:00 +0000

You: O.K. Now I have my list of people in my family to talk to about my family's history. Now what?

Me: Well, how about some suggestions on how to do it? The actual questions we can work on in the next post.

You: Oh. Well, I thought I'd go to my grandma's house on Saturday as a surprise and ask her to tell me all that she knows about our family.

Me: Yeah. Um. Don't do that. In fact, you should do the exact opposite. [And before you ask me, no, I'm not kidding.]

Following are some suggestions for planning your visit:

Call, email, or write [You know. Write. As in long-hand. If you still know how to do that, of course.] your family member(s) and after the pleasantries, explain what you're doing, why you're doing it, and politely explain how they could help you. See if they'd be interested in speaking with you. [I'd use "speaking" rather than "interviewing". To me, "interviewing" seems a little impersonal, and that's exactly what you don't want to be.] Also mention that if they have any photos, family Bibles, letters, etc., they'd be willing to share with you that you'd love to see them. [And if it turns out that they do have any of those, you can thank me later for suggesting that you inquire up front about them. =)]
Now, some people are able to remember everything they want to say to someone and everything someone else tells them. I'm not one of those people. So, I'd plan to write out some questions to ask them and write/type them down. Also, I'd plan to take notes. Lots of notes. And if you think your family member will agree to it and you have the resources to do so, I'd voice-record it and/or video tape the ~~interview~~ visit. [Your descendants would love you for doing it, and also you'd be able to refer to it later when your notes became a bit "spotty" because your family member's story about Great-Aunt Bernice became "juicy" at that point.] In any case, I'd also plan on taking a camera.
One of the things you need to remember is to make your family member feel comfortable during the ~~interview~~ visit. If they're comfortable, they'll probably remember and share more with you, which is the whole point.
If the discussion starts to go off-course from your planned questions, don't sweat it. In fact, let them talk. The human brain is like that. One memory leads to another memory, and then the next thing you know you're swimming in memories. So let your family member reminisce. It's a good thing. Go with the flow. Be flexible.
Remember those photos, letters, and family Bibles, etc. I suggested you mention when asking if they'd let you ~~interview~~ visit with them? Well, if they found any, have them show them to you and share what they know about them. These make great conversation starters. And you'll be pleasantly surprised by the family history clues that have been sitting there all this time waiting for ~~someone~~ you to find them. Also, take as many notes as possible about everything. Take photos of memorabilia, if they'll allow it. You'll want to also take a look at the back of any photographs. Many clues may have been written there by some long-forgotten relative.
You: "When younger, did you enjoy going to school, Grandma?" Your Grandma: No. ~ [Snort.] Ask open-ended questions. Yes/No answers aren't going to get you very far in the "reminiscing department."
Make sure the place you decide to ~~interview~~ visit with them is comfortable and is conducive to them opening up and sharing.
If at any point the information they are sharing with you is different from what you know to be true, don't correct them. Just record and move on. Analysis and evaluations will be made later. In private. Why? [Because I said so. That's why. *wink*] Because you are clue-collecting. But more importantly, it'd be rude to correct them. [And I don't need to tell you that they probably aren't going to share very much more with you if you insist on correcting them every time they open their mouths. Right?]
Don't press them into talking about something they don't want to talk about. That'd be rude, and we've already covered what happens when you're rude.
At the end of the ~~interview~~ visit, ask if it'd be O.K. with them if you contacted them later if you have any more questions. Odds are, you probably will have more questions.
Also, if they don't mind, take a photo of them, and/or with them. You'll want it ~~for your records~~ later.
Finally, offer to give them a copy of your research later. [That is, once you've done it.]

Me: Have any questions about how to ~~interview~~ visit and/or share with your family member(s) about your family's history? Ask me in comments below.

You: What about the questions? What do I ask?

Me: See, you should've been taking notes. I mentioned it already, but here it is again. [Wink.] Tomorrow's post will have suggestions about what you should ask. Any other questions?

Lists, Beggars, & Being Picky

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:47:00 +0000

So, how's that pedigree chart coming along? Got some stuff filled-in? Have some blanks? Good. Now you got something to work with. And to continue the previous post's building analogy, you have started the blueprint of your family history. You're not done, but at least you can see what needs to be done.

Speaking of which, what does need to be done? What blanks are empty? Now think about who in your family might have the answers. Don't forget about some of the older members of your family. They are excellent resources for your family history research. In some cases, they may have actually been there. They may even have important documents, photos, letters, etc. You never know. You just might find a relative who says, "Yeah. I inherited all this stuff, and it's taking up a bunch of space. Space I'd like to have back. If you come and get all this crap, it's yours. Otherwise, I'm just gonna throw it away." Hey, crazier things have happened, folks. [And if that does occur, then go. Now. Don't pass "go" and don't collect $200.]

So, the next step is to make a list and check it twice. But we're not gonna find out who's naughty or nice. [At least, not right now. You'll find these ancestors can be full of surprises.]

This list that you're making is a list of family members who might be able to help you fill-in the blanks on your pedigree chart. [And if you're lucky, some stories.] So, think about it. Meditate on it. Sleep on it. Then make your list.

Let me know in the comments below how many you come up with. And, no, this isn't a competition [which is good because I'd lose]. I'm just curious.

Here. I'll go first.

In my family, I have a whopping 2 people that I could call or visit with concerning my family history. Not many. I know. But it's something to work with. And as my mom used to say to me whenever I'd complain about not getting what I wanted, "Beggars can't be choosy, Caroline." And you know what? She was right [as usual].

I Know My Pedigree. Do You?

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:22:00 +0000


"I know my pedigree. Would you like to see my chart?"

Have you had fun unearthing all your family's stuff ~ documents, letters, notes, photos, & other memorabilia? Not done yet? Good. The more stuff, the better. Keep working on it.

Meanwhile, let's get down on paper the information you have so far. The things you know. Millie, my Pug above, brings up a good point. The pedigree chart. You know, building your genealogy or your family history is like building a house. The foundation is where you get the information (sources). The framework of the house represents the facts. And everything else is the family history. The stories. [Simplistic? Yes. But I think it works.] Anywho, the best way to start on the framework is to fill-out a pedigree chart. Are you going to know everything? Um. No. But just as builders have a blueprint of the house they're going to build, you're going to need to start drawing up the blueprint of your family tree.

Further, filling out this chart will identify what you know and what you don't know. [You know?] This is important for all your future research. How else do you know what you need to look for? How can you possibly look for answers to questions that you haven't even asked? [*snort* Why is the sky blue? Why is the grass green?]

Oh. And to my Ancestry.com user friends, if you already have a pedigree chart from your Ancestry.com tree, great! BUT put it aside. Why? [Because I said so. That's why. *wink*] Because it's so easy to merge information into your tree from Ancestry.com. So easy that you might have unknowingly collected information from someone else's family tree that is incorrect and undocumented. [And do I really need to mention what happens when your foundation is not solid? It affects every part of your house. In a bad way.] Now. While Ancestry.com is a very, extremely useful research tool [including the tree], it's just that. A tool. It's not an end product, in my opinion. Don't get me wrong. I use it all the time. But I use it as a tool. [You're just gonna have to trust me on this one. It'll make sense later. I promise.]

So, let's take a look at a pedigree chart and how to fill it out. First, free blank pedigree charts can be downloaded from many places online. Here are 2 of them:

Ancestry.com ~ 4 generation chart
Family Tree Magazine ~ 5 generation chart

At this point, it doesn't matter which one you use. Just pick one, print it out, and use it. At this stage, I like to think of the pedigree chart as a worksheet. And again, this too is a tool, and not an end product. It's not a pedigree chart that I'm going to get framed and give to Great-Aunt Bernice for her birthday. It's a worksheet.

Now, I think this chart is pretty self-explanatory. Here are some things, though, to keep in mind when filling it out:

You are number 1. I mean, yes, you are great and wonderful. But I was referring to the fact that your name goes in the space marked with the number one. And speaking of number 1, this is chart 1. The numbering of charts will become very important in keeping your ~~rabbits~~ ancestors organized later, but right now we're using this pedigree chart as a worksheet.
So, starting with yourself in the number 1 blank, fill-in each generation's information with as much information that you know. See? You're starting with yourself and working backwards.
Who's your daddy? The answer to this question goes in blank #2, up above you. And your momma's info is going to go in blank #3, below you. The father always goes above, and the mother always goes below. Then you do the same for your father, listing his parent's info and for your mother, listing her parent's info. And so on and so forth.
List full names and nicknames, birth, marriage, and death information.
If you don't know something, that's O.K. This isn't a test. Just skip it and move on. Remember. The whole point of this exercise is to figure out what you know and what you don't know.
Also, this information is what you know as fact as well as information that you have proof of. You know, all that stuff you collected? The documents? And yes, knowing that your grandparents are your grandparents counts. That's your personal knowledge of them. What this doesn't include is information from a family tree that you found online or in a book. Those are clues. Not facts. They have their place in research, but that's not here.

So, what do you know? What do you not know? Questions? [No, silly. Not about the sky or the grass.] Questions about the pedigree chart? Let me know in comments below.

Instant Replay Sunday: Rabbits!

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 20:34:00 +0000

Why It's Best To Keep the Cart Right Where It Is

Wow. It's already been a week. Our first week. So what did we do?

Great-Aunt Bernice

Monday: "This Is Where It All Starts" & you got to meet Great Aunt Bernice. [She's a looker isn't she? Don't worry we're gonna see her again.]

Tuesday: "What Do You Mean To Find?" [We stuck sticky notes on, well, everything.]

Wednesday: "It Starts With Y-O-U" [We found ourselves and found out why we shouldn't rob banks.]

Thursday: "Because I Said So. That's Why." [We found out what ancestors and rabbits have in common.]

Friday: "Can Glory Be Found in Boxes?" [Well, can it? Read & find out. Oh, and there's more rabbits.]

Saturday: "The 'G' Word" [Psst. Lemme help you with that. No more rabbits, but we kept filling up those boxes/tubs/laundry basket thingies.]

We were busy, but we're going to get busier. And, yes, eventually we'll even start the online stuff. But there's a method to my madness. [At least, that's what I keep telling my husband.] We don't want to put the cart before the horse. You do know what happens when you put the cart before the horse, right? You get a horse who runs smack dab into the cart. And then you run smack dab into the horse's...

Not the place you wanna be.

Where Else I Can Be Found Online This Week:
My other blog, Family Stories is undergoing some remodeling, but I'm still posting. 'Cause that's the way I roll. Here's what I posted this week over there & please pardon the mess:

"Tombstone Tuesday: Martha Jane (Smith) Blacketer" [She was a plain Jane, but then she married a Blacketer.]

"Wordless Wednesday: A Genealogist's Dream" [I've never seen so many of these together.]

"To Be So Close" [A submission for the Locomotion Edition of the Festival of Postcards that will be hosted on the blog A Canadian Family.]

But don't just visit my blog. There are many more listed over at Geneabloggers.com. Go find one. You'll be inspired to find your family story.

The "G" Word

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 13:51:00 +0000

Still gathering all your documents and photos? Great! Fill up that tub/box/laundry basket. Get another one if you have to. While you're doing that, I thought I'd go over something that might seem trivial. Well, it's trivial until someone publicly tells you you're doing it wrong, and hence, you are not very bright. First of all, I'd like to say that some people are just plain rude, even ~ and it pains me to say this ~ if they are right.

So what the heck am I talking about? I'm talking about how to spell the word, "genealogy." No, it is not spelled "geneology." It has an "a" not an "o", but that's a good guess. [Promise me you'll never stop guessing. You're gonna need that later.] And I dare anyone to say that from the get-go they knew how to spell it. I mean, why would anyone guess that unlike more common words such as geology, sociology, and psychology, that genealogy is spelled with an "a" and not an "o"?

So, why is the "G" word spelled this way? [You didn't really think I'd leave you hanging did you? I mean, why not know more than just the "how", right?] Well according to the Online Etymology Dictionary, the word, "genealogy" comes from the Greek word, "genialogia" which can be broken down further into "genea" which means "generation, descent" and the word "logos" which means "student of". Did you notice the base word, "genea" ends with an "a"? That is why genealogy is spelled with an "a" and not an "o". Simple pimple. Oh, and did you notice the meaning of the second word "logos"? Yes, we are all students ~ learning more and more every day.

So, would you do me a favor? Now that you know how to spell the "G" word the next time you see it misspelled, would you gently, privately, please tell that person how it is actually spelled, and do it without questioning their intellect?

They're just new.

They're just a student.

Like you.

Like me.

Studying their familial generations.

Their familial descent.

You all might even be related.

Now wouldn't that be funny? [Snort.]

Well, in an awkward kind of way?

On second thought, point them towards this post. I'll tell them for ya'.

Can Glory Be Found In Boxes?

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:32:00 +0000

Now, what else do you have around the house? No, not for a garage sale. I mean genealogy "stuff". You know. Your grandparent's marriage license. Perhaps a family Bible that [Gasp!] has been written in. [That's actually a good thing, and I'll tell you why later. You know. Because I said so. *wink*]

Today's the day you find all those items that pertain to your family. I would say you're house cleaning, but you're not. [Because who would want to do that? *snort*] The fact is you might [if you're lucky] have quite a bit of a mess on you're hands. Or your dining room table. Or wherever you might be piling all this stuff. These clues. These artifacts that will help to reveal your family story.

So get one [or more] of those plastic tubs, or a box, or a laundry basket. Put it on the dining room table. And "go to town". You'll be surprised how one item will lead to 5 items, which will lead to ten items. And before you know it, you'll have a bunch of ~~rabbits~~ family artifacts on your hands. Then you'll have a bunch of ancestors on your hands. [See, I told you they multiply like rabbits.]

Don't believe me? Try it out for yourself. Below is just a small sampling of family artifacts that you're looking for. In other words, if you find something that you think tells something about your family and it's not on the list , then put it in the tub/basket/box. Simple, right?

Birth, marriage, and death documents
Land documents
Photos
Family Bible(s)
Quilts, baby blankets, and the like
Obituaries, funeral programs
Old newspapers, newspaper clippings
Graduation announcements, programs
Report cards, yearbooks
Wills
Old letters, notes, postcards
Tickets and programs to plays, sporting events, etc.

Basically, empty out all those boxes of family stuff that ~~no one else in your family wanted in their garage or attic~~ you've inherited. It's time to go through them. Inside of them just waiting to be found is your family story. What are you waiting for?

Tell me [and everyone else] what you found in comments below. Was there something you didn't know you had? Was there something that you can't identify, but you know it belonged to your Great-Aunt Bernice? Was there something that was just plain odd?

Here. I'll go first.

Here's something I didn't know I had. After my Dad passed away, I found it in his jewelry box that was inside a cardboard box of some of his things. His father's [my grandfather's] World War I Victory Medal. Huh. I never even knew that he'd been in WWI. Then I found a photo of him in his WWI uniform in a plastic tub of my parent's stuff. So then, I hunted down his story. My family story.

So yes, glory can be found in boxes.

Because I Said So. That's Why.

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 17:13:00 +0000

Why You Should Prove "You"

My sister used to have this framed poster of an exasperated mother hen surrounded by all her little chicks. And the caption read, "Because I'm the Mommy. That's Why!" I always thought that was funny, but now, as a mother, I get it. When my kids were younger, I would explain the "why" about everything. "You need to do this because..." kinda thing. But now, as they get older, I have resulted to the "Because I said so. That's why" refrain because [O.K., so the "because thing" is a habit] I feel it's time for them to figure out the "why" for themselves. I think doing it this way has made them very curious and also very aware of the fact that they should be asking, "Why?" All the time. Constantly. Non-stop. [Just don't ask me all the time.]

So, what does this have to do with proof? Especially proof of you, or anyone else for that matter? Well, there are many reasons why you need to prove you, everyone, and everything in genealogy.

It's academic. I know. You didn't really want to hear the "A" word, but genealogy involves studying [albeit interesting studying]. And proving [citing your sources] is a fundamental, accepted, and expected part of genealogy. It's part of its foundation. It's part of the rules. [Yes, I said the "R" word, too.] But the following is the "why".

I don't know about you, but I'm forgetful. Just ask my husband. And my kids. [I prefer to think that I'm "focused."] I can't even remember what I had for lunch yesterday. [Oh no. Did I even have lunch?] However, I can remember little details about ancestors, but I can't always remember where I found the information. Oh sure, it's easy to remember when you're starting out. But when you start collecting ancestors, you'll find they multiply like, well, rabbits. And you can't remember if they're from your paternal side, your maternal side, or if they're from your husband's lines. You need to know where you found the info that proves that your grandfather, indeed, had many wives before your grandmother. Or where you found the proof that, yes, when your great-aunt disappeared when the circus came to town, that she did take up with a carny.
One of my high school English teachers once told the class that we could say whatever we wanted in his class as long as we could back it up with facts. And generally speaking, it's true in genealogy, too. What if you find a living distant cousin while researching [and it happens more often than you think] but some of their information and some of your information are not the same? Who is right? Who is wrong? Are you both right and/or wrong? How can you compare anything if you don't know where you got your information? How will you know if you really are related? You must have something to back up what you say, or no one is going to listen.
And why prove "you"? Well, you'll be helping your descendants. Your birth certificate, while boring to you, might be very interesting to a descendant of yours. They might think that your middle name is [a-hem] "interesting". And comparing a later photo of you to your birth certificate, they might think that you looked waaay good for your actual age listed. [We can only hope.] Oh, and want to keep your descendants on their toes? You know, make their job of researching you a little harder? Don't do it with a birth certificate. In some places, those suckers are hard to get. Go hide a quilt you made, or something. Yeah, make them work for the quilt.

But really? Why site your sources? Why prove yourself?

"Because I'm the genealogist. That's why."

It Starts With Y-O-U

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:56:00 +0000

Yup. It all starts with you. Little, bitty you. No one else, but you.

You do know "you," don't you? If not, grab a mirror and look. "You" meet, well, "you".

There. Now that the introductions are over, let's get down to business, shall we?

Genealogy starts with you. Then you work backwards. Why? Because you know yourself the best. You have witnessed most everything that's happened to you. [Even if you didn't want to do so.] For example, you were there when you were younger and you skinned your knee for the upteenth time while riding your bike down that gravel road. You were there on your first date and you were half-scared out of your mind and half-excited, so much you wanted to throw-up. You were there when you took your driver's test, and you were scared half out of your mind and half-excited, so much that you wanted to throw-up. [Again.] And if you have married, for better or worse, you were there at your wedding, half-scared out of your mind and half-excited, so much you wanted to throw-up. [Huh. Scared and sick, much?]

Get the picture? You. Were. There. You know yourself the best. In fact, you're an expert on yourself.

Now. What official documents do you have that prove "you"? Birth certificate, marriage certificate, social security card, photos, etc. Locate these types of documents. This is your first genealogy directive.

What do you mean you don't have your birth certificate? Well, O.K., then. Here's your second genealogy directive. Get it. Now. Like, yesterday. Call whomever you need to call in your family who might have it. [If you are still able to do so, call your parents]. Just do whatever you need to do to get a copy of your birth certificate. [No, don't rob a bank. Silly, a bank won't have your birth certificate. Oh, and robbing is bad. In fact, it's against the law. So don't do that.] Depending on the state you were born in, you should be able to find your birth certificate at the city, county, or state level. To obtain your birth certificate by mail, FamilySearch.org has a listing of addresses and other pertinent data located here. You can also Google The Department of Health in the state you were born and follow their online instructions for ordering. Or if you are in a hurry, you can order it online at MyVitalRec.com or at VitalChek.com.

If you need to order your birth certificate, then do it. It really doesn't cost very much. And you really need it. Not just for genealogy.

If you have it now or when you receive it, take a look at it. In fact take a real good look at all of your official documents. Yes, you can take a look at the photos too, but do get back to the documents. [What were you thinking when you decided to wear your hair like that? And on your wedding day, too. Well, I guess what they say is true. Love is blind. *wink*]

Getting back to the documents. Take a real good look at them.

Look at every single detail on them.

So tell me. I'm dying to know. Is there anything incorrect on your official documents? Are you who you thought you were? If not, what's different? What did you not know about "you"? Tell me [and everyone else] in the comments below. NOTE: Don't tell us exact details though. We want to keep "you" as "you". We don't want someone to steal "you". Then "you" wouldn't be "you" anymore. Then where would "you" be? Lost. That's what. And in a real big mess too. Just let me and others know in general about the proof of "you".

Here. I'll go first.

Sometime after coming through customs on our way back from our honeymoon in Cancun, I lost my birth certificate. [I know I made it through customs because I'm here. I'm clever like that.] Anywho, before I lost it, I had noticed there was a misspelling of my mother's maiden name. An extra "k" had found its way into her name. So, I sent off for a new one. I was excited to be able to correct the spelling of her name. I received it in the mail and tore open the envelope to find that maybe the state government ought to do a better job at screening their employees. At least give them a spelling test. Or an editing test. Or something. 'Cause they misspelled it. Again. It was a different mistake. But still wrong. They typed a "D" for a "B". Who knew consonants were so much trouble? [Rolling eyes heavenward.] So, how 'bout yours?

What Do You Mean To Find?

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:20:00 +0000

So, why are you searching for your family story, history, genealogy, and/or ancestry? What's your goal? What do you mean to find? This is an important question to ask yourself because it determines your path in your search, and it gives you something to shoot for, so to speak.

Genealogy [what I like to call the "G" word], simply defined, is the study of family ancestries and histories. Genealogy is the nuts and bolts [sometimes more nuts than bolts] of family history. Typically the end result is a fully-cited pedigree chart that one can show off at dinner parties and family gatherings. It's interesting, [at least to you] that you are the 5th cousin twice removed from the woman who invented the circular saw in 1812, Tabitha Babbit [Now, wouldn't it be ironic if she was an ancestor of John Bobbitt?], but after the intial "Ooohs" and "Aaahs" is anyone really interested? My experience has led me to the conclusion that most of the time very few [if any] care, but you.

Or this spurs one of your dinner companions to tell everyone about how their mom told them that their Great-Aunt Bernice already did their family's ancestry, and it turns out that they are, indeed, direct descendants of the 4th Earl of Ross whose descendancy includes a Signer of the Declaration of Independence, a woman who married another Signer of the Declaration of Independence, and a man who had the foresight to marry a woman who would make the first American flag. All of which kind of steals your thunder. [Unless, of course, you can prove that John Bobbitt somehow is related to Tabitha Babbit because, in my opinion, blood and gore trumps a 4th Earl every time.]

But what about a story? A family story that includes horse thievery in Texas in the 19th century with the result of one of your ancestors being beaten to death by the hands of a bloodthirsty lynch mob, and his brothers, having survived the same beating that their brother died from, going to prison? Ah, now you have their attention. [But I don't suggest explaining the details of the beating over dinner. Save it for dessert.] The framework and tools [the genealogy] is an integral part of your search, and yes, the chart that stands 6 feet high is impressive, but what is memorable is the story ~the family story.

Maybe you're not looking to have the pedigree chart whose height rivals the Empire State Building. [I wonder if it's sourced?] Maybe you could care less about the story. [What!?!] Maybe you have loftier goals such as looking for your family's medical history, which is becoming more and more popular. Or maybe you simply [or not so simply] want to know who you are, where you came from, and/or who your people are. In truth, there are as many reasons to look for your ancestry as the day is long.

So, what are you really looking for? Be clear about it. Write it on a piece of paper and put it near your computer, make it your screensaver, put it on your desktop, put it on your refrigerator and/or bathroom mirror. Put it where you'll see it often and be reminded of what exactly it is you are looking for. Now, let me and others know what your overall goal is for the search for your family story in the comments below. It doesn't need to be a detailed description of your goal. Even a one-word comment is fine. Just get it down. Commit to it.

Here, I'll go first.

My goal is the family story. I'm looking for my family story. [What? You're surprised?]

Now it's your turn...

This Is Where It All Starts

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 08:28:00 +0000

O.K., maybe not all and technically speaking, we're kind of looking for where it all started with our families. Right? If not, read on maybe I'll interest you.

I decided to start this blog because I'm often asked, "So, how do I go about finding my family story?"

Truth be told though, it's not out of the blue like that usually. Rather it's after I answer the ever-so-popular question, "So what do you do?" And then the next question is always, "Did you see that show, "Who Do You Think You Are?" [*Snort.* Did I see WDYTYA? You mean the only show that was on at the time that has to do with my all-consuming passion? Nah.] The next comment is, "I don't know who my ancestors are, but I loved that show." [Yeah, me too.]


Great-Aunt Bernice ©Copyright 2010 C.E. Pointer

Or they have a Great-Aunt Bernice who already found their lineage all the way back to the Mayflower. Now that last one always makes me laugh. [In my head of course.] [If you haven't caught on by now, my thoughts ~usually sarcastic~ are in brackets.] It would be very surprising to me if all of your lines led back to the Mayflower. Come on. There were ships before the Mayflower and many after. That statement always makes me think, "What about all those who didn't come on the Mayflower? I mean, what were their stories?" And if that's all you know about your ancestors, then you especially need to go huntin' for your kinfolk. I'm just not really impressed with the Mayflower statement. It tells me you don't really know about your ancestry. [Unless you can back it up with proof and stories and that you do realize not all your lines go back to the Mayflower.] Honestly, if I had a dollar for every time I've heard that Mayflower statement, I would be a very rich woman. [Really, how do I get a Great-Aunt Bernice with a purported Mayflower lineage?]

Anyhow, I thought that maybe if I found Great-Aunt Bernice for you, she could probably help you, but, alas, I've "Googled" great-Aunt Bernice and I can't find her and her lineage back to the Mayflower, so I thought that I could probably give you some tips and hints, for what they're worth, to help you search for your family story. After "Googling" Great-Aunt Bernice, I looked around on the internet with the eyes of a "newbie," and one thing became very clear. There are, like, a gazillion places to look, all offering a smorgasbord of things, ranging from free to what's got to be more than what Great-Aunt Bernice paid for her lineage all the way back to the Mayflower.

So, my answer to this problem? How about a site that can deliver some help, guidance, and support in a friendly and light-hearted atmosphere? Maybe a site that can break down the "tough stuff"? Perhaps a site that has daily tips, links to helpful websites, reviews of related-products and services, a related daily video, and the like ~all in an easy-to-understand format with just a dash of humor? [O.K., so maybe a sprinkle of sarcasm too.] A site that eventually will get you to think, "Great-Aunt Bernice who?"


Billy the Kid (Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.)

In addition to helping you get started on finding your ancestry, there will be helpful tips on awesome ways to share your family story. Because you don't want to be stingy. That's right. You want to share all about the outlaws in your family, especially over Thanksgiving Dinner, but even more important than that, you can take credit for all of your family discoveries. Yes, that's right. You don't need Great-Aunt Bernice.

Yes, I will refer to companies in my posts when it applies because you cannot possibly do all your searching for free. If another site promises you can, just remember what Great-Aunt Bernice always says, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is." But don't worry. I'll be giving you plenty of tips and hints on the free stuff.

For your viewing/reading pleasure, I've included on this blog/site a related daily video from YouTube and other places. Sometimes they'll be instructional. Sometimes they'll be entertaining. And sometimes they'll be downright funny. In addition to the Daily Video, I've added a Google news feed that, like the name suggests, feeds introductions to news stories. I've customized it so that it only includes those stories that contain the following keywords: "genealogy", "family tree", "family history", "Who Do You Think You Are", "ancestry", etc. Now. Most of the stories are relevant. However, there are a few that are not. But they're not inappropriate either. So, if it's not relevant, please ignore it. Another news story will appear shortly. Feel free to click on a story to read it. However, that will take you off this site. So don't click it until you read my post. Please. I'm trusting you. And watching. Just kidding. I'm not watching you. [By the way, I really like your living room furniture. *wink*]

I've also added a Twitter feed that feeds all tweets from Twitter that include the keyword, "#genealogy". You know. Just in case what I've said on any given day is just so compelling that you simply cannot leave my site to go to Twitter. [Snort.] In other words, if you can't [or won't] go to Twitter, I'm bringing a piece of Twitter to you. [No, Twitter is not a mountain. But for some, it's close.]

I will also be reviewing related products and services that are related to genealogy, family trees, family history, and /or history. My reviews will be honest, which if you think about it, is the best way to go for everyone. How else will the products and/or services get any better? I may or may not be compensated for these reviews, but I will let you know either way. They'll be honest reviews ~the good, the bad, and the ugly. If it stinks, it stinks. Even Great-Aunt Bernice would agree with that.

Photo courtesy of Liam R.E. Quin.

I will eventually be adding E-books that I author, and they'll be available for nominal fees. [That's "nominal" not "phenomenal". If I were independently wealthy, it'd be free. But I'm not, so...] In the near future, I will also be incorporating video posts for genealogy and family history tips as well as for tutorials on ways to share your family story that will also be posted on YouTube. The videos will be free. [My favorite word.]

So whaddya say? Are you ready to look for where you came from? How about looking for who your people are? Are you ready to start searching for your family story?

Who knows?

Even though you're not going to need her,

Maybe you have a Great-Aunt Bernice.

And maybe she's done some of the work for you.

And maybe it's actually sourced.

Which would be nice.

How will you know if you don't look?