Interviewing Relatives for: 10 Essential Questions to Ask
Interviewing relatives can be an invaluable source of information for your genealogy research. Family stories, memories, and details that may not be documented elsewhere can bring your family history to life. In this post, we will explore 10 essential questions to ask your relatives during genealogy interviews, as well as tips for conducting successful and engaging interviews.
What is your full name, including your maiden name (for women)?
Starting with the basics, this question helps you confirm your relative's identity and establish their connection to your family tree.
When and where were you born?
This information can be crucial for locating birth records and establishing a timeline for your relative's life.
What were the full names of your parents, and when and where were they born?
Collecting information about your relative's parents can help you expand your family tree and identify new avenues for research.
Can you tell me about your siblings, including their full names, birth dates, and places?
This question allows you to gather information on additional family members and establish connections between generations.
When and where were you married, and what is your spouse's full name?
Marriage information is vital for documenting your family history and can help you locate marriage records or newspaper announcements.
Can you share the names and birth details of your children?
By documenting your relative's children, you can continue to expand your family tree and understand family dynamics.
What was your occupation, and where did you work throughout your life?
Occupational information can provide insight into your relative's life and may lead you to additional records, such as employment or union records.
What are your most vivid childhood memories, and can you describe your family's home life when you were growing up?
This question can elicit rich, personal stories that provide a deeper understanding of your relative's upbringing and family dynamics.
Are there any family traditions, customs, or heirlooms that have been passed down through generations?
Discovering family traditions or heirlooms can offer unique insights into your family's cultural heritage and history.
Can you recall any significant events or experiences that had a major impact on your life or the lives of other family members?
This open-ended question encourages your relative to share important moments or turning points in their lives, which may reveal new information or context for your genealogy research.
Tips for Conducting Successful Genealogy Interviews
Be Prepared: Before the interview, create a list of questions, gather any materials you may need, and familiarize yourself with your relative's place in your family tree.
Set a Comfortable Atmosphere: Conduct the interview in a relaxed, quiet setting and try to make your relative feel at ease. Offer reassurance that there are no right or wrong answers.
Record the Interview: With permission, record the conversation using an audio or video recorder to ensure you capture all the details accurately.
Be an Active Listener: Show genuine interest in your relative's stories, and be prepared to ask follow-up questions or adjust your line of questioning based on their responses.
Be Patient and Respectful: Give your relative time to think and respond to questions. Be sensitive to their feelings, and respect their boundaries if they become uncomfortable discussing certain topics.
Take Notes: Even if you're recording the interview, it's helpful to jot down important points or specific details that you want to follow up on later.
Be Open to Surprises: Sometimes, your relative may share unexpected information or stories that challenge your existing knowledge of your family history. Be open to these discoveries and adjust your research accordingly.
Follow Up: After the interview, review your notes and recordings, and clarify any unclear or incomplete information with your relative. This is also an opportunity to express your gratitude for their time and willingness to share their memories.
Share Your Findings: Keep your family members informed about your research progress, and share the stories and information you've gathered from your interviews.
Preserve the Memories: Incorporate the stories and details from your interviews into your family tree or narrative family history. This not only enriches your genealogical research but also helps preserve these memories for future generations.
Conclusion
Interviewing relatives for genealogy research can provide a wealth of information and bring your family history to life. By asking essential questions and following best practices for conducting interviews, you can uncover new insights, deepen your understanding of your family's past, and create lasting connections with your living relatives.
