Preserving and Sharing Family History: What to Do with Old Journals and Letters
If you stumble upon a large collection of journals and letters spanning decades, what should you do with them? This question comes as I have been sorting through a remarkable series of letters written by and to my ancestors, ranging from 1836 to the 1920s. While not traditional journals, these letters provide invaluable insights into daily life and historical events.
Understanding the Owner and Their Intentions
The first step is to ascertain the owner of the collection. If the owner or any relative can be identified, it is crucial to return the items to their rightful place. In doing so, you maintain the integrity and historical value of the documents.
However, if no one claims the collection, another viable option is to submit them to a college or university with a vested interest in historical preservation. Institutions such as libraries and museums often welcome donations of historical documents, as they can contribute to academic research and public education.
Engaging with the Documents
The sheer volume of the collection can make it challenging to read through everything. However, it is possible to sample and transcribe key entries. For instance, I have transcribed a few dozen letters and occasionally included scanned images of originals with interesting handwriting or tintypes of the authors. This digital archiving process ensures that the documents remain accessible even if the physical condition is fragile.
These transcriptions and images allow relatives and historians alike to engage with the contents of the letters. The personal nature of these documents can bring ancestors to life, making them more than just historical artifacts but tangible pieces of family legacy.
Examining the Content and Context
As you review the documents, consider the themes, viewpoints, and cultural context. Over the years, the topics covered may offer insights into the evolution of ideas and life during different periods. You might notice consistencies or shifts in viewpoints, which can highlight significant historical events or cultural changes.
For example, letters from the mid-19th century might discuss the effects of the Industrial Revolution, while later letters might reflect on the impacts of more recent events such as wars or epidemics. These documents can serve as a window into the past, offering a deeper understanding of the worldviews of the time.
Appreciating the Effort and Value of the Documents
Even if the documents are not immediately useful or interesting, it is important to treat them with reverence as remnants of individual lives. Those who meticulously recorded their thoughts and experiences put a great deal of care into these documents, making them valuable not only for their content but also for the personal connection they represent.
By carefully handling the documents and cherishing their content, you honor the dedication and effort of the individuals who created them. This respect can also inspire others to appreciate the historical value of these items, ensuring they are preserved for future generations to learn from and enjoy.
In conclusion, handling a collection of letters and journals responsibly involves identifying the owner, digitizing copies where necessary, and examining the content for historical and personal insights. By doing so, you contribute to the preservation of our collective history and foster a deeper understanding of past traditions and perspectives.