Genealogy Is More Than Charts

by Lorna Duane Smith

Book by Smith, Lorna Duane

329 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1991

Reviews

[Mary Lou · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was recommended by our library's archivist/genealogist, and it is quite thorough but, sadly, dated and out of print. Published in 1991, Smith's book came about before the internet became a common tool and, as such, many of her methods seem archaic. Still, depending on where one is in his genealogy journey, Smith may provide some interesting and sometimes out-of-the-box ideas.

One chapter deals with effective family reunions, suggesting games and activities that enbrace family history. Another stresses the importance of displaying heirlooms, rather leaving them hidden away in the attic (though some descriptions of Smith's own home make it sound quite cluttered, and she has another chapter devoted to creating family-themed crafts, which made me cringe. One theme she didn't focus on nearly enough was curating.).

Smith gives good prompts for collecting oral/video histories from older family members. And while genealogy IS more than charts, she nevertheless goes into great detail on various methods of record keeping -- none of them digital.

Finally, Smith includes chapters on encouraging genealogy projects in schools and scouts, starting a genealogy group in one's town, etc., to encourage others enthusiasm for learning about their family history.