How To Write Your Family History

“Once upon a time a headless horseman rode up and down the dark country road yelling, “Who’s got my head? Who’s got my head?” Only my Dad knew he was telling us kids a classic story. When we asked for a story he told us to get ready. We ran to the darkest bedroom sat down and got ready. We sat on the floor because at the story end he yelled BOO! We ALL jumped, every time! That’s part of my history. Another lady found out why her husband and daughter liked Oriental fashions, decor, and food. Turns out her husbands’ Grandmother forth removed was Chinese! See you can write your family history.

Make a list of the names of your oldest family member down to the youngest member who makes sense! You want the truth. It may be sad or shocking whatever you hear is as they remember and is the truth to them. You’ll need: 1. A large spiral notebook. 2. Five ballpoint pens, 3. Tape recorder and Kleenex.

Start with questions such as: 1. What is your full name? 2. Where were you born? 3. Describe your wedding dress. 4. Did you work outside the home? 5. Where did you live as a child? 6. Did you have a craft? Ask questions then listen. Give them time to answer. Touch them lightly when their thoughts wonder away from the subject and ask another question. This keeps both of you focused. Be careful about talking or making noise when you are recording. Interview in a quiet place. Nod your head as they talk this will encourage them to keep talking. When you finish thank them go home and write up your story. Schedule the next relative and go on from there. You may choose to publish or not. Your goal is a record of your family’s history. Your are preserving memories.

Violet Camp lives with her husband Carl in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. She likes to read, write and have fun with her three married children and five grandchildren. She is the author of two published nonfiction book and two manuscripts with her agent. Please contact her at violetcamp2003@yahoo.com Violet Davis Camp is a writer/author/speaker. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Violet_Camp