By: David Rommel Douglas

Heartland Genealogy

I am a Genealogist

The most often asked question from Heartland readers is, "How can I get others interested in my genealogy project?" The task is not easy, the attempt can often be frustrating and disappointing. We sometimes just do not know the words to express our love of genealogy. How often have you felt, "I need someone to explain why I ask so many question." You may find the following "open letter" helpful the next time you explain why, "I am a Genealogist."

An open letter to anyone and everyone who has ever wondered what a genealogist is all about.

Please allow me to introduce myself, I am a genealogist. Not that I have a degree or any special training. For the most part, I have never been to a University. I do not carry any credentials stating my official status. I am usually a genealogist by self appointment.

Where did I learn my trade? Well, I like to read and I read a lot of information about genealogy. But mostly I learn from experience. I benefit greatly from the experience of other genealogists. That is why you often find us "hanging out" together at genealogy meetings, seminars and conferences.

I know some of you consider me somewhat of a pest. I do not mean to be. You see, genealogy research involves everyone in a person's family. Genealogy is about all of us and the common heritage we share.

If I sometimes seem to ask too many questions. Or if my visits seem too frequent, please pardon my thoughtlessness. I enjoy genealogy so much that I just naturally think others do as well. I try hard not to be a nuisance, but sometimes I forget. I do not mean to seem nosey. Questions are one of my best tools for gathering information.

Sometimes I go overboard and dig a little too deep. Sometimes my questions get a little too personal. I know that. The desire to know often overwhelms me and I forget myself. Again, I ask for your tolerance and understanding. Be assured, if there is something you wish to remain confidential I will respect that request. I owe you that much. I know without your help my family genealogy project will not go far.

My request is that you not focus on my weaknesses but on my good points and strengths. One of my good qualities is my love for older ones. Not just a respect for my elders but a genuine caring love. I appreciate their years of experience. I often stand in awe of their wisdom and common sense. I value, more than others, what they have to offer the younger generation and its because of genealogy.

I am generally pretty good at history. Ask me questions about the Revolution or the Civil War. I can even talk about the Spanish American War or the Florida Wars. Mostly, I can tell about members of our family who fought in those conflicts. I can tell you about land, taxes, customs, migrations, maps, and a lifetime of facts about records. It is all part of being a genealogist.

What I want you to understand, is that I care about our family. I am not looking to dig up anything that will put anyone in a bad light. If I do discover something embarrassing about someone, I do not judge them on a certain action our deed. I realize we are all human and are prone to mistakes. Our ancestors were no different, I make allowance for that fact.

I respect the memory of our ancestors. I feel we owe it to those who gave us life to at least remember them. In some cases all I know is a name. Sometimes that has to be enough because there is nothing else, but at least they are remembered.

You will hear from me again about our family genealogy. I believe that my research has not achieved its purpose unless I share what I find with others. And I must admit, I hope I can spark a genealogy interest in someone else. It sometimes gets a little lonely doing the digging by myself. Having someone with whom I can share exciting discoveries keeps me going.

Some people think I'm crazy. My family thinks I spend too much money. I wish I had more to spend. There are so many places I want to see, so many records I want to research. Some appreciate my letters, though I have had some tell me not to write again. I do not want to upset anyone, that is not my intent.

Older ones love me because I take an interest in them, that makes me happy. We have so much we can share with one another. I guess that is part of what I want you to know.

You will hear from me again. In a way I guess I am a pest, I just can't seem to help it. I will be at the family reunion next year. I hope you can make it. I have a few more questions I would like to ask."

If I claimed all of the above sentiments as my own, it would not be true. They are the expressions and feelings of the many Genealogists I have met over the years. Perhaps they express the way you feel about your family research.

Clip this column from the paper and save it. The next time you meet someone who doesn't share you enthusiasm for genealogy, have them read it, it might make a difference.

If genealogy is not your interest and you have read what is here out of politeness, perhaps it has helped you understand, a little better, the interest and intent of a family genealogist.