GENMTD-L Archives

From: "Elizabeth Richardson" <>
Subject: Re: What would you like to know most
Date: Thu, 11 May 2000 21:27:04 -0700

>> This is a research question. If you could find out anything about
>> your past....what kinds of things would you like to know about most?
>> Personal things...histories...stories....what life was like then...
>> pictures of the old homes? Personal stuff? or are you mostly
>> interesting in tracing names?


I am currently working to bring current an old family history. My
great-grandfather told the history a very human way. ". . . seems
thoughtful of an afflicted mother, is a good conversationalist, and
seems willing and ready to do her part to make home pleasant and
cheerful." is one entry. Another, "he is an elder in the United
Presbyterian Church, and seems to enjoy a quiet, peaceable farm
life, near . . ." I have delighted when I have learned such things
about the people outside this direct line. It has also been helpful
when I learn a bit about daily life or what were the events of the
day that concerned my family. These are the kinds of comments which
have made me understand how I "fit" into the making of my country,
that I am part and parcel of its fabric.

In my letters to extended family, I have always asked them to
include a comment such as who had a good sense of humor, or who was
the "student", or who liked to work with his hands. I have also
asked if they would share photographs to be included in he update.
It seems it doesn't have to be much, but some small personal trait
really makes the people more real, not just names.

Hope this helps,

Elizabeth Richardson, Ketchikan, Alaska

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