Do you keep a record of your family history? These remarkable stories of courage can inspire the next generation. So, why not share them. Right?
My Mum recently turned 90.. wow! I took time to record her life stories in a video. It shares first hand accounts of survival from the Japanese occupation in Singapore during 1942 to 1945.
I have gathered many my old photos to create a family history photobook. What prompted me to do this came from my children—asking questions about their ancestry. You see I’m a Singapore born Eurasian of Portuguese heritage who now lives in Australia. So, for them its interesting to know the history of their roots.
In this post, I share three steps to help you start gathering your family photos. Collecting their stories helps you create photobooks. You can even make family story videos. This is a good start to manage your photo and video memories and make them accessible to your family.
Family History—Where to Start?
About three years ago, my Mom fell severely in our home. The fall gave her a clot in her brain. I was told to prepare for the worst. Yet, she survived with no explanation from the surgeons as to why. It was a miracle. Even the Doctors were amazed by her quick recovery.
What stories do you keep dear about your parents and their struggle? Consider including them as part of your family history. Whether you choose to make photobooks or videos, I guarantee you’ll always treasure those memories. I know I do.
Family stories can make a huge difference in guiding us ahead. They give a sense of belonging. These stories help us know who we are and where we come from. For example, knowing the unconscious memory or knowledge or skills that has been passed down to you.
Step One: Research your Family Tree
Go on Ancestry to find your roots. Search your family name as far as you want to. Always remember to add a little story behind the name or photo if you know it. This will compliment it. But if you do not have any of the information, just skip and move onto the next one.
Step Two: Gather your Family Stories
For my family history, I’ve decided to cover my family’s ancestral mix. I will also share stories about my Mum’s survival through the Japanese Occupation in Singapore. How her family struggled to find food? Due to their perseverance, me and my children are here.
Perhaps the first step for you is to have a conversation with your parents or grandparents. Find out their hopes, dreams, or even hobbies. This will give you an idea of what else you wish to include. Genetic Memory is an amazing way to know what you’ve inherited from your family’s genes.
I’m sure you too have amazing family stories to share with future generations. Do include the inspiring ones too.
Other Helpful Articles on Family Stories
How to Use my Photo Organising Folders to Preserve Photos
How to Discover Your Family Stories Before Its Lost
Step Three: Search for Photos
Make a list of where you think they are stored.
- Old photo albums
- Computer
- CDs
- USBs
- SD camera cards
- Mobile phones
- External hard drives
- Social Media and many other places
Go find them and gather the ones you want to keep under one roof. Write a little story about the people in the photos and their stories.
Take Action
The number one takeaway from this activity is to start your research. In this process, you will gradually decide the path. You will discover where you wish to go with your personalised family history photobook.
Need files to save your digital photo collections, why not download my free photo organising folders. Just fill in the form below and I’ll send them to you. You will also receive my regular email. It provides updates for tips and ideas to help you preserve and keep your memories alive.
