The Internet and Heritage
We are who we are, and that is sufficient to be an honest, respectable, and productive citizen, yet there is a delight about knowing ones ancestry. Being able to connect is a reason why so many have taken the time to trace family history and their lineage. The Internet has become one of our greatest tools to search, travel the paths, and connect the dots. The benefits are numerous, health concerns, heredity factors, occupational considerations. The path we take is ours and ultimately the decisions we make we own, but unraveling the family history gives us room for reflection and consideration. What is most intriguing is that in many cases we often find our heritage to be unusually strong.
Just as, we are influenced by our immediate family, friends, and those we live amongst, some are inclined by their ancestors, this knowledge opens up a whole new perspective, especially in the profession we may follow. One must examine how strong the DNA factor plays in this scenario.
Many years ago genealogy projects were difficult, one would gather as much information as possible from relatives, news archives, attics, libraries, you were then confronted with writing to different community archives, record keeping institutions. It was a monumental time-consuming project. But with computers, immense amounts of technology, the organization of many records and documents throughout the different institutions, genealogy research while still intense can be done in significantly less time, less travel, and certainly less expense.
I have found in the world of genealogy patience is your friend. Let me point out there are many genealogy websites available that, for a small fee, you can access much information. It is possible you may go down the wrong path a time or two; you may also discover some horse thieves or not too savory relatives. Somehow when they are a few generations removed we find we can laugh. For myself, I discovered a relative who was found guilty of treason, hung and burned at a stake in London, England in 1417. I have become quite proud of him, for he was a man of principle, on the other hand, I discovered an ancestor who was a Civil War hero, his life enabled me to write a book about his accomplishments.
When starting your journey into the world of ancestry, preparation helps. The following may seem elementary, but they truly are key considerations. Many genealogy websites include the availability to purchase tools that will assist in your quest. I would recommend, a special place for all the information that you will gather, lots of pencils with erasers, always carry a small notebook and pencil, or recording device, keep these items readily available so that if someone calls or information is given to you, you are able to take notes in a sensible way (transposing information can send you on a wild goose chase) I suggest purchased or created forms for documentation of the facts you find, a specific place where you can record and compile, and as you get more involved you will possibly need to purchase acid free covers to protect any old documents you may be fortunate to find. As much information as you can accumulate will help. Birthdate,s are extremely beneficial as they help to distinguish between people with the same name, who in turn could be several generations removed from each other. Family gatherings are an excellent place to collect information along with stories that will die out if not recorded. Family Bibles are another significant source, use every opportunity that presents or is available.
Finally, a word of warning, seeking ones ancestry can be addictive, but in this world of mayhem that we live in, it is an excellent addiction and most enjoyable for many. Who knows you may get to travel and visit with relatives you did not know you had, and see ancestral places you never dreamed existed, either from your armchair via the internet or in person. Please feel free to email me for additional information, I wish you well.
Jacqueline F Hurlbut, Author, Patriot Heart: A story about Brigadier General George Ashworth Cobham Jr,who was killed at The Battle of Peachtree Creek, Atlanta Georgia. Over 100 letters written from the battlefields that would provide insight, glimpses of his personal life, his view of the war and the battles that he and his men fought. It is true they were from his perspective, a vision which came from a man of faith, an officer, gentleman, patriot, husband, father, son, and brother, who would in due course be called a Hero. See more information at http://libertyandvirtue.com/
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