“Our family isn’t interesting.” It’s something I’ve heard countless times over the years. People often believe their family’s history isn’t worth recording because they don’t have famous ancestors, royalty in their family tree, or stories that made the history books. But after more than forty years of researching families, I can tell you something with…
There is something deeply emotional about walking through an antique shop and coming across old family photographs for sale. Recently, while antiquing with my husband, I found myself stopping again and again to look through boxes of old photographs. There were wedding portraits, baby pictures, family gatherings, and snapshots of people clearly enjoying moments that…
When we think about ancestors, we usually picture people from long ago—names on family trees, faces in old photographs, or stories passed down through generations. But there is an important truth many family historians overlook: One day, you will be an ancestor too. Being a future ancestor is not about how far back your family…
Every January, we pause to honor Martin Luther King Jr.. His words are quoted, his speeches replayed, and his voice continues to echo across generations. What we don’t always stop to consider is why his voice is still heard today. It is not simply because his message was powerful though it was. It is because…
The holiday season often brings a rush of shopping, wrapping, and worrying about what to give loved ones. But some of the most meaningful gifts aren’t bought — they’re created. And as family historians, we have something priceless to share: stories, memories, and captured moments that would otherwise fade away. Here are seven simple, heartfelt…
November is a month of gathering a time when families come together around tables, traditions, and stories that have shaped us for generations. Whether your loved ones live nearby or are traveling home for the holiday season, this month creates natural opportunities to connect, listen, and preserve the memories that matter most. As genealogists and…
Every October, genealogists and family historians around the country celebrate National Family History Month, a time to reconnect with our roots, rediscover forgotten stories, and preserve the legacies that shape who we are. Whether you’ve been researching for years or just beginning to explore your ancestry, this month offers the perfect reminder to slow down…
When we spend years digging into records, building charts, and mapping connections, it can be surprising when our relatives look at our family tree and say: “I don’t get it.” That’s because most family trees are designed for genealogists—not for everyday family members. The charts are full of jargon, symbols, and dozens of names that…
Family history doesn’t belong in binders or files alone; it comes alive when shared. One of the best ways to bring your research off the page and into the hearts of your relatives is by hosting a Family History Night (or a story-sharing event). Why Host One? Planning the Event Keep it simple. Choose a…
When we think about family history, most of us picture stacks of records, names, and dates. But those details can feel flat unless we bring them to life. One of the most powerful ways to do that is by turning data into visuals — timelines, maps, and charts that let us see the story. Why…
