Inspired by the incoming traffic from Scobelizer (what a lift a link from Robert brings!), I began a discussion thread at the other site to discuss whether (or not) you’ve interviewed family members and what’s blocking you (if you haven’t) or what’s the significance for you (if you have).
Ralph Brandi, of There Is No Cat and Geneablogy, kicked off the thread. Here’s a portion:
I know there are posts here that talk about the mechanics of the equipment and such, but even if you’ve just got a cheap cassette recorder, it’s important to do this. My grandmother’s story is so compelling to me, and I feel so fortunate to have this record of her life in her own words. I’ve done more research into my family history through official records and the census and all the other stuff that you do when you get involved with genealogy, but talking to my grandmother ten years ago was the most important thing I’ve done in my research, because she was someone I knew so well and this helped me understand her so much better. [Read More]
Aah, I see I need to create comment permalinks on that site. Er, on my way.
If you have any comments to add, please go there and add your thoughts!
Having recorded one short interview with my great-grandmother in the mid-1970s for a school project (she survived the Great 1900 Storm in Galveston), I can attest that such family interviews really are priceless. To be able to hear her soft, lilting voice again , reaching across the years… well, it’s hard to express just how much it means to have even this small connection to her.
If you can at all manage it, you will be glad to have made a recording of your family members.