10. A Little Encouragement

 

 

Collecting family history information from family members can sometimes prove a bit frustrating.  Although you can spend countless hours scouring the online resources, tracking down initial details of your own immediate family (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) can often prove difficult.  They are still living and likely not found in any commercial databases.   Living relatives are your best source. 

 

Fellow genealogist Greg Cave, wrote letters to four aunts, seeking details on birth dates, locations, weddings dates & locations, etc. for aunts, uncles, and cousins.  The response was dismal.  Only one reply!   Has the art of letter writing totally disappeared? 

 

Greg’s Mom suggested that he try a small adjustment; extend the aunt’s ages a bit to make them older than they actually are!   One letter read “I have you in my family history database that you were born in 1916”.  In fact, that aunt was likely born closer to 1920.  

 

The responses were quick and furious, instantly correcting the erroneous birthday of each aunt but also supplying loads of data on other family members.  It seems that age is a sensitive item in the family tree. 

 

Of course, there are lots of other sensitive aspects in family relations.  For example, illegitimate births, once a major sin.  Folks were called up in church to admit to their social failings.  Also, divorces can often generate bad feelings and hence, an unwillingness to contribute to a family research project.  Have faith and patience and keep at it.  Your work will have its own rewards. 

 

Ron Gilmore

Email:           rvg3@me.com

Website:       https://www.rgenealogy.ca