Unraveling family histories and creating a family tree can be deeply satisfying.
However, one of the most significant benefits of this endeavor is the ability to pass the information on to future generations.
Your family’s descendants will surely appreciate your hard work and perseverance.
But what is the most effective way to preserve and share these records?
Storing Your Family Tree
It is crucial to maintain a record of all notes and documentation gathered during your genealogy research.
This information is invaluable, and even if you have stored everything in paper form, duplicates should be made to protect against fire, flood, or other losses.
You can create copies and store them offsite, or scan the information and store it on your computer, on disks, or on an external storage site.
For those who have compiled their information using computer software, consider backing it up online at an external storage site.
Alternatively, you can back it up to an external hard drive and create copies on DVD and/or CD discs.
Presenting Your Family Tree
A comprehensive family tree is one of the most precious gifts you can give to future generations.
Family trees can range from elaborate works of art, framed and printed on glossy-colored paper, to simple binders with charts of each family branch.
Other options include flowcharts, reports, and even books.
Some genealogy software products offer the capability to print beautiful books, which would also make wonderful gifts for future generations.
Sharing Your Family Tree
In addition to recording the information and family stories you’ve uncovered, consider creating an audio or video for your family.
Many movie-making software products allow you to upload family photographs, enabling you to share photos and record certificates such as birth, death, and marriage documents.
Software products often include sharing capabilities, allowing you to easily email or connect with other family members online and share the information you’ve discovered.
In today’s digital world, this is one of the fastest ways to share your family tree, making it accessible and comprehensible for younger family members.
IMPORTANT: NEVER publish living relatives’ information online! Only share details of those who have been deceased for a considerable amount of time.
Genealogy and delving into your family tree is a noble pursuit. Tracing your family back to its origins can be a long and challenging journey.
Once you’ve created a comprehensive family tree, the journey isn’t over.
The true value of a family tree lies in the ability to share it with future generations.
Imagine if all this information had been available to you as a child. What a remarkable connection to your family and history!
Preserving and sharing your information for future generations is one of the joys of genealogy research.
