GEN-NYS-L Archives

From: <>
Subject: The pain of Genealogy
Date: Sat, 2 Jan 1999 18:14:47 EST

Recent problems have brought some thoughts to mind that I would like to share
with all. These are strictly my views on genealogy and are not intended to
upset the apple cart. Hopefully, some will read it and take it to heart,
making a difference in some small way. And others can just pass it by as they
wish.

Surely we can all appreciate how much time and money is involved in genealogy.
Although much can be done with just time at the library, to build a family
history with documentation takes time and money. Each and every one of us has
given their share. True, some more then others. Perhaps due to resources,
time and circumstance, or other factors, one has contributed more than
another. Yet all of us play a vital role in producing a family history of
interest to us and our descendants. Our common goal is to have something to
leave for the next generation that comes along and asks "What happened to so-
and-so, and what was their life like?" Should we withhold what we have spent
our precious resources on, simply because there is nothing for us to gain back
at this time? Should one be "punished" simply because they did not have more
to share; as if measuring it out will somehow balance our output of time and
money? There is no way that I can see to be sure all exchange of information
is of equal value and importance to the one with whom we exchange our
treasures. And to expect to recoup all or most of our expenses in this would
just be unrealistic.

The vast majority of information received via the Internet is free. Is it of
value? Is it accurate? To answer these questions, one must contact the
researcher and check their sources. Many are the researchers out there who
are more than willing to share their history as well as their time in helping
others. And they do so willingly and freely. There are lists designed for
practically every name, state, country, and county out there, as well as
specific topics. All of this is contributed to and monitored by volunteers.
It is through many of them that I have developed my research abilities,
learned of ancestors, and the history of different areas, just to name a few
benefits of these. Those who do so with the conviction for accuracy and
detail needed have my continued support and thanks for all they do towards
furthering genealogy research.

Sally Peterson

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