Genealogy forums
These are free opportunities to share answers to research roadblocks. Rootsweb has spawned many of these. Sign up to participate by interest. Most states and localities, such as Detroit, are very active. Today there was an email from Ron Stone. He provided an answer to a previous request. It is cited here for the personal sharing! But also because he deals with change in all of its forms.
He has generously given permission for its use here.
Guest artist: Ron Stone
I most recently used Google maps to survey the address where I lived in
late 30s and up to 41. The little red balloon kept showing me the
address although most all but the street was changed. I saw where our
house would have been in a parking lot by and auto parts store. I saw
where Aunt Mays house was a hamburger joint. The big oval horse
watering trough was now some tall trees and another food outfit. The
mayor’s estate was now some box stores in a kind of strip mall.
Just for the fun of it, I have been drawing in the old neighborhood
features having made a pale copy of the map so that the superimposed
features will show clearly. Now if only Google could have a “time
adjustment” I wouldn’t have to draw it in.
Note: Look for more of Ron’s writing should he accept the invitation.
Of course there are the usual sites for records and other information. Most have a nominal fee considering how the information and access has exploded in the last 10-15 years. Family research can be just that – family trips down memory lane. Oral history where possible is the best and a gift to your children and on and on. Keeping journals and photo albums up to date will be researched for years to come. People will want to know what we were about. What seems mundane will inform and amuse.
Who knew?
It’s a Game
Monopoly as a family activity is still popular. It has been replaced in many homes by the wii. Crossword puzzles are recommended for ‘old’ folks to keep their mental capacities working. The tracking of family events and how they were influenced by their times can be a most exciting game experience.
Tell your Story
Involve a family person or borrowed grandchild into the hunt for facts about your family. Even pick some other family and study their history. It can benefit you and your fellow detectives, and generations ahead.
Related articles
- Genealogy U (indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com)
- Wisdom Wednesday – Attend a Schaumburg Library Genealogy Meeting (familyhistorytips.wordpress.com)
- How to uncover your family’s military roots (cbc.ca)
