The air is crisp, the leaves are beginning to turn, and children have returned to their classrooms. It’s September, and what better time to reconnect with your family history? Genealogy isn’t just a summer vacation activity; each season offers its own unique opportunities to explore your past and build your family tree. As you swap out your summer decor for autumnal wreaths and pumpkins, consider diving into these ten genealogy projects tailored for September. Each one offers the chance to learn something new about your ancestors and make meaningful progress in your research.
1. Update Your Family Tree Software
Start the month by ensuring that all of your genealogy software and databases are up-to-date. New versions often come with features that make your research easier and more productive. Spend an hour or so downloading updates and familiarizing yourself with any new tools to aid your exploration.
2. Organize Those Summer Discoveries
Chances are, you gathered some valuable information during your summer travels or family reunions. Now is the time to compile and catalog these gems. Sort through photos, documents, and notes. Upload everything to your digital records and ensure it’s properly labeled for easy access later.
3. Plan a Virtual Family Reunion
September is often a busy month for families with children in school and adults back to work, but it’s also an excellent opportunity for a virtual family reunion. Utilize video conferencing tools to bring everyone together. The focus could be genealogical, encouraging family members to share old stories or even treasures like letters and photos.
4. Revise and Expand Your Research Goals
As the year progresses, your research objectives might need to change. Take an hour or so to reevaluate your genealogy goals. What have you accomplished so far? What would you like to focus on for the remainder of the year? Adjust your plans accordingly.
5. Visit a Local Archive or Library
Many archives and libraries experience a lull in September as families are occupied with back-to-school activities. Take advantage of the quiet to explore local resources. Speak to archivists or librarians about unique collections pertaining to your family history.
6. Explore Fall Traditions
Autumn comes with its own set of traditions, from harvest festivals to All Hallows’ Day. Dig into how your ancestors may have celebrated these occasions. You might discover family recipes or traditions that you can reintroduce into your modern celebrations.
7. Review Census Records
Census records offer a wealth of information about your ancestors. Spend some time this month combing through these resources. Pay attention to details you might have missed before, such as occupations, educational backgrounds, and even neighbors who could play a role in your family’s history.
8. Map Your Ancestors’ Movements
Were your ancestors immigrants? Did they move from rural areas to urban centers? Use maps to trace their journey over time. This visual aid can be a powerful tool for understanding the social and economic factors influencing your family’s decisions.
9. Make a Timeline
Creating a timeline of significant family events can bring clarity to your research. It’s also a fantastic visual tool that can be shared with family members, helping everyone understand the sequence of important life events and how they tie into broader historical contexts.
10. Share Your Progress
At the end of the month, take some time to share what you’ve found with your family. This could be through a digital newsletter, a family blog, or even a printed booklet. It’s a wonderful way to keep everyone engaged and invested in the family’s history.
September is a month of change and new beginnings, making it the perfect time to refresh your genealogy projects. By working through these ten tasks, you’ll enrich your understanding of your family’s history and prepare yourself for deeper research in the months ahead. Happy Searching!