May 2000

 

Learning About Your Family History
Art Schneider, schneidera@missouri.edu

Interest in genealogy is exploding as we end the 20th Century. This is much different from the first part of the century when there was tremendous social pressure to be American and to discard the trappings of our immigrant past. But as the 1960s and 1970s unfolded, there was a resurrection of pride in heritage. The Civil Rights movement and the call to celebrate African-American heritage—which was ignored and dismissed—were an early call to celebrate diversity. The aging population probably has contributed to this effort to put together one’s heritage. Never before have we had so many Americans living so long. Often they have great-grandchildren and many want to see their family heritage preserved. Family traditions and pride in family heritage are integral to strengthening family connections.

I am particularly fascinated by efforts to "create" family reunions with family members that one never knew existed or had moved to other parts of the country and are only a vague recollection.

Many software manufacturers offer computer programs that integrate information and develop family trees. Who knows? They may become the 21^st Century innovation for recording the family history—which before was captured in family Bibles.

There are many sources available for assistance. For those on the Internet, check out the State Historical Society of Missouri web page, which has many linkages http://www.system.missouri.edu/shs/genealogyguides.html. One can expect that, in time, genealogy searches will be able to be completed through the Internet.

Another source that I highly recommend is the Missouri State Archives. One can submit an e-mail request or a written request. (Only one search at a time is permitted…AND…there is no charge!!!!!) The Archives will tell you what was located and ask if you want copies made. Photocopies are only 10 cents and microfilm copies just 50 cents.

The archives has abundant resources—old war records (even the Iowa War!!!), many county records such as marriages and births and deaths (only in recent years have county records been filed with the state), land records (which frequently contain vast amounts of family information), probate records and Census records. After 72 years, Census Records become part of the public record and are open for inspection. If you know the county in which a person lived in 1920, the Archives can provide a lot of household information).

You can contact the State Archives by e-mail at http://mosl.sos.state.mo.us/rec-man/archweb/emailpol.html or by snail mail to Missouri Archives State Information Center, P.O. Box 1747 Jefferson City, MO 65102. The archives will send you an official request form. While only one request can be researched at a time, there is no limit to the number of times you may submit a request. It takes four to six weeks, which is not long considering the vast number of requests they receive. Also, the Archives maintain a list of people who will conduct searches for a fee. They are people who often can narrow a search very quickly and save lots of time.

If you get a chance, visit the Archives in Jefferson City. It is a beautiful facility and you’ll be very impressed by the helpfulness of the staff.

 

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