Gathering Firsthand Information

When you start compiling information for your family tree some of the first people you should go to is your family or the people that will be featured in the tree. Get the story from the horse’s mouth, or so the saying goes.

Your parents, cousins, aunts and uncles are going to give you the starting pieces to your family tree. I always tell people to ask questions and listen to your elders. They have a lifetime of information. Some of their stories you will never hear from anyone else. They might provide details behind why your Aunt Karen has two different dates of birth or share that grandma actually had eight siblings but two were still born so there are no records with a simple headstone that says infant.

Documents only get you so far, it’s the people that will help bring to life answers to questions we would otherwise theorize about. So, take the chance and talk to each other.

With all that being said, don’t take everything as written in stone. Not that anyone is lying but time has passed and thus some details may no longer be as vivid as they were when they occurred. You do still want to do a little research to try and find some document that backs up a little bit of information you are being told.

Listed below I provide Pros and Cons about gathering information from your family.

Pros of Gathering Information from Family Members

Firsthand Accounts:

• Family members provide firsthand information and personal anecdotes that may not be recorded elsewhere.

• Stories and details from relatives can add depth and context to your family tree.

Accuracy and Detail:

• Relatives can provide precise dates, places, and relationships that official records might not capture.

• Family stories often include valuable details about occupations, lifestyles, and family traditions.
  

Filling Gaps:

• Older relatives, in particular, can help fill in gaps, especially for generations where records might be sparse or incomplete.

• They may have knowledge about extended family members, including those who lived in different locations or countries.

Personal Connection:

• Engaging with family members strengthens relationships and fosters a sense of shared history and identity.

• Involving family in the process can make the project more meaningful and collaborative.

Uncovering Hidden Histories:

• Relatives may share previously unknown information about family dynamics, migrations, and significant life events.

• These stories can lead to discoveries about family heritage, including ethnic backgrounds and cultural practices.

Cons of Gathering Information from Family Members

Inaccuracies and Memory Lapses:

• Memories can be flawed, and family members might provide incorrect dates, names, or relationships.

• Older relatives may have gaps in their memory or might confuse details over time.

Subjectivity and Bias:

• Family stories can be subjective, and individuals may have different perspectives on the same events.

• Biases and family politics can influence the accuracy and completeness of the information shared.
  

Emotional Sensitivity:

• Discussing family history can sometimes bring up painful or sensitive topics, such as divorce, death, or estrangement.

• Not all family members may be willing or comfortable sharing certain details.
  

Incompleteness:

• Some relatives may not have all the information, especially if they were not directly involved in certain events.

• Information may be limited to the knowledge and experiences of the individuals you speak with, potentially leaving gaps in your tree.

Time-Consuming:

• Gathering information from family members can be time-consuming, requiring multiple conversations and follow-ups.

• Coordinating with family members who live far away or have busy schedules can be challenging.

While gathering information from family members is an invaluable starting point for creating a family tree, it should be complemented with official records and external sources to ensure accuracy and completeness. Balancing personal stories with documented facts can provide a richer, more reliable family history.

Happy hunting.