Family Trees

Another activity that uses information that might be of interest to the SARAW participant is a family tree. A low-level participant might begin with a family tree that includes only the immediate family, while a more advanced participant might create a family tree that includes the extended family for 3 or more generations by talking to family members and researching family history.

The information needed for a family tree is:

  • names (first name & last)
  • date of birth
  • marriage date
  • date of death

How to Collect Information

Participants may not know this, but they already have a wealth of information about their family trees. Personal memories and stories they've heard from others have created a collection of genealogical information. This information probably already includes names, birthdates and birthplaces of close relatives along with other information. To start growing a family tree, all participants need to do is record the facts they already know. It doesn't matter how few or how many facts they start off with, because even the smallest amount of information can eventually grow the largest tree if this sort of exercise piques their interest.

In addition to memories, participants may have or know about photo albums, scrapbooks, family Bibles and other family keepsakes and memorabilia. These are excellent places to look for information about their families. Other places may include:

  • autograph books
  • books (look for inscriptions)
  • certificates (from schools or jobs)
  • Clothing and hats
  • cookbooks
  • diaries and day books
  • photo albums important papers (wills, titles, deeds)
  • jewelry (anything that may have an inscription or indicate membership in an organization)
  • letters
  • newspaper clippings
  • pictures (look at the back)
  • resumes
  • school papers (report cards may have parent's signatures)
  • scrapbooks
  • sewing samplers, quilts and other handmade items
  • trunks and chests
  • yearbooks


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