Embarking on a journey to uncover our family’s origins is like diving into an intriguing book, filled with stories of triumph, love, and resilience. While the internet has made genealogy research easier, we often overlook the valuable knowledge that our own families possess. In this blog post, we will explore a simple 5 step process of what should be included in a family history.

Our parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other older relatives hold a wealth of information about our family’s past. Engaging in conversations with them strengthens family bonds and gives us a chance to learn about our roots. Approach these interviews with curiosity and a willingness to listen, allowing them to share stories, traditions, and memories that may hold the key to understanding our family’s history.

During interviews, encourage your older relatives to share their experiences, anecdotes, and family legends. These stories paint a vivid picture of our ancestors’ lives. Jot down important names, places, and events, as they may help us in further research. Recording the interviews, if possible, preserves the authenticity of their narratives for future generations.

Old family records, photos, letters, and official documents provide valuable insights into our ancestry. Ask your older relatives if they have such items and take the time to examine them together. These artifacts can reveal important details like birth certificates, marriage records, or even old family Bibles with handwritten entries documenting significant events.

One very special artifact we really love is handwriting from our loved ones. It can be hard to read, but the tangible product of ink on paper helps us feel like those family members who have passed away are still a part of us! This is a small thing but is really big.

Interviews with older relatives often reveal unique family traditions and customs passed down through generations. These practices give clues about our ancestral origins, such as cultural traditions, celebrations, or regional dialects. Embracing these traditions can deepen our connection to our roots.

For example, my mom’s extended family held a large family reunion every year in Iowa. Relatives from all over the country came into this tiny town in the middle of corn fields to visit each other. On one visit, one distant family member graciously allowed me to drive their golf cart for them during a round of golf. This was a huge highlight for me as a 15-year-old!

Organize the information gathered during interviews to create a family tree. This visual representation helps us understand our lineage better. As we dig deeper into our research, online genealogical databases, historical records, and public archives can provide further information to support and expand upon what we learn from our relatives.

What should be included in a family history will be different for all families. Interviewing older relatives is a valuable starting point for unraveling our family’s ancestral history. Through their stories, memories, and access to historical documents, we can piece together the puzzle of our lineage. Cherish these conversations, as the knowledge they provide not only connects us to our past but also creates a foundation for future generations. So, grab a notebook, sit down with your loved ones, and embark on this enlightening journey of self-discovery and connection to your legacy.