Unlocking Family Secrets: Expert Tips on Interviewing Relatives for Genealogy

The Photo Detective

In today's solo episode, Maureen Taylor, the Photo Detective, delves into the essential practice of interviewing relatives for family history research. Following the feedback from newsletter subscribers and podcast listeners, this episode focuses on the collective wisdom and personal insights shared on this topic. We will explore the nuances of conducting effective interviews, the importance of capturing oral histories, and how these personal accounts enrich our understanding of family lineage and heritage.

• Introduction to the importance of interviewing relatives for family history research.
• Summary of listener and subscriber advice on conducting interviews.
• Tips for preparing for an interview, including researching and creating a conducive environment.
• Discussion of the best practices for recording interviews and preserving oral histories.
• Insights on starting with elder relatives and verifying family information.
• Techniques for encouraging relatives to share stories and memories.
• Overview of resources for developing effective interview questions, such as AmericanAncestors.org.
• Personal anecdotes and advice from other listeners on the value of capturing family stories.
• Preview of the next episode focusing on advice for one’s younger self in family history research.

Related Episodes:

Episode 228: Joseph Quaderer: Democratizing Biographies with StorySavor.com

Episode 77: Interviewing Relatives: A Conversation with Personal Biographer Francie King

Links:

• Conducting a Family History Interview from AmericanAncestors.org
• 100 Questions to Ask Your Mother from Today.com
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• Need help identifying family photos? Check out the Identifying Family Photographs Online Course.
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About Maureen Taylor:

Maureen Taylor, The Photo DetectiveTM helps clients with photo-related genealogical problems. Her pioneering work in historic photo research has earned her the title “the nation’s foremost historical photo detective” by The Wall Street Journal and appearances on The View, The Today Show, Pawn Stars, and others. Learn more at Maureentaylor.com

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I'm thrilled to be offering something new. Photo investigations. These collaborative one-on-one sessions. Look at your family photos then you and I meet to discuss your mystery images. And find out how each clue and hint might contribute to your family history. Find out more by going to maureentaylor.com and clicking on family photo investigations.

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