Family History

In this edition of “At the Library,” we’re talking genealogy and family trees! Growing up, my paternal side gathered annually for a large family reunion. One year, my uncle unveiled a large, detailed history and family tree that he had composed through genealogical research. Being that I was in elementary school at the time, I didn’t take much interest; though I do recall it being a topic of much conversation and interest among the adults.

Cut to my college years – My boyfriend at the time had also researched and compiled his family tree. I was surprised as I hadn’t known he was even working on it and will never forget his excitement over what he had uncovered!

Get Help Tracing Your Family Heritage

Personally, I’d never put much thought into tracing my family heritage until, as a staff member, I realized just how easy it could be with the help of trained librarians and readily available resources found at our library!  Last fall, I met with our Local History Staff who helped me uncover many unknown things about my heritage. In just one brief meeting, I learned much about my family tree – including the geographical location where my paternal grandmother’s family was from (Limerick, Ireland).

Genealogy Research

From uncovering lost or unknown relatives to learning more about your family’s health, we know that genealogical research is important. Just ask TLC. Its Emmy nominated show “Who Do You Think You Are?” began its ninth season this spring.

Family trees are valuable too, in that they take often convoluted historical information about a family, and put it into a visual, easy-to-read format. Plus, they can be really interesting!

Would you like to know what your family tree looks like?

To get started, try this blog post: Getting Started With Genealogy Research

Or contact the Local History Department at 419.259.5233 for more information.

In the meantime, I hope some of these fun fictional family trees will rouse your enthusiasm (WARNING – could contain spoilers).

Fun Family Trees

Weasley Family Tree (From the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling) By “love-weasley” on Fanpop.com

Star Wars Family Tree Created by Matt Baker for UsefulCharts.com

War & Peace Family Tree (From the BBC series based on Leo Tolstoy’s classic novel)

Lannister Family Tree (From Game of Thrones tv series based on books by George R.R. Martin) By SetsunaPluto on DeviantArt.com

Pride Lands Family Tree (From the Lion King movies) By Flameshadow117 on DeviantArt.com