I watched a webinar by Jean Naisbet, Inherited Family Records? Now What?, posted by the BYU Family History Library. BYU Family History Library, posts weekly webinars on various subjects and has a huge archive of webinars on topics that will help you learn what you need to know as you work on your geneaology.
On the webinar, Inherited Family Records? Now What? . William G. Hartley, was quoted for saying the following: “Moving time often triggers fatal decisions regarding records. At such moments old items, particularly if disorganized, seem like junk…The impulse to discard is especially strong for people moving into smaller quarters with limited space. Death, particularly when unexpected, severely strains survivors who must make hurried and emotional decisions about the deceased’s belongings, [and] sometimes families just grow weary of saving old items.”
Things you might find among a deceased loved one’s belongings include:
- Vital records
- Health records
- Letters
- Memorabilia
What to keep? Three simple tips:
- SORT
- STORE
- SHARE
SORTING is the most time consuming. But this process will lessen the confusion. Don’t forget a garbage can in this process. Let family members help sort; adults but not a large group, not hoarders but family lovers.
Process: 1) This is cool – you’ve found a jewel. Primary sources; records, photos (especially labeled), family data, letters. 2) If you can’t decide – set aside. Unlabeled photos, books to donate, calendars, old newspapers, homework assignments, etc. 3) Don’t rehash – throw in the trash. Blank pages, duplicates, greeting cards with given names only, outdated family history helps, old data forms, old technology. Most likely it can be found on the internet now.
STORING can be done in plastic bins with lids (pest resistant), folders (colored are helpful for further organization), organize folders by surnames including maiden names. This is easier for future research. You can incorporate into folders already started. Store photos in envelops according to surname or events. Put unidentified photos in a large envelop if you think they might belong. When in doubt, don’t throw out. Later it might fill in a piece of your family’s puzzle. Storing in an organized way makes it easier to identify, access, and digitize.
Digitize records to preserve them. Once the digitized files are on your computer, organize files including photo files by surname. Make sure you have your files backed up and preserve what you have stored. Let the rising generation help put records on the computer or on the cloud including re-typing old histories. They were born computer literate. It will help them feel a sense of connection and accountability.
SHARE. Why? If you don’t share, who will? Records will never be lost or accidently thrown away. Family members will have their own copies. Records will be preserved. Shared histories and photos generate interest faster than charts or names. When uploaded to FamilySearch/FamilyTree memories, you can refer other relatives to those histories. They will be thrilled to learn about their own family history.
Today’s technology – protects treasured records from getting lost and forgotten. It is not easy and it will take time but it will be worth it for the rising generation. –Janet Helland