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31 October 2016

"The Organized Family Historian" by Ann Carter Fleming



The Organized Family Historian: How to File, Manage, and Protect Your Genealogical Research and Heirlooms written by Ann Carter Fleming, CG, CGL(Certified Genealogist, Certified Genealogist Lecturer) offers the reader a plan to organize your heritage trunk. In her introduction, the author suggests, "It is time to open this trunk [heritage trunk] and organize the prized possessions left to you by your forebears." The new family historian may feel overwhelmed, great guide! The mature family historian may be assisting a new person, great resource!

Ann Fleming arranges her book into three parts: Part 1 Organize Your Heritage Trunk; Part 2 Organize Your Research; Part 3 Organize Your Family History for Publication. The family historian's first task is to gather all "stuff" into one area. Reading on page 31, "'Stuff' is an official genealogical word covering a wide range of items in your heritage trunk, including books, documents, file folders, heirlooms, notes, photos, and whatever else you have collected." Overwhelmed? Where do I start? Mrs. Fleming breaks the overwhelming tasks into smaller doable tasks. Incorporate these ideas into your style. You will become organized and stay on your research track.

Details covered include how many pages of 20-pound or 24-pound paper each ring binder size can comfortably hold, see page 38 for the answer. Another detailed example provides information on how to dispose of resources. On page 57, learn how to use colored dots as reminders. This can be adapted to items other than books. This can be adapted for use during your sorting project or later when your family wants to follow your final wishes.

What makes this book unique?
  • detailed suggestions in all three parts
  • examples of forms and worksheets
  • CD with printable blank forms
Genealogical book reviewed: Fleming, Ann Carter. The Organized Family Historian: How to File, Manage, and Protect Your Genealogical Research and Heirlooms. Nashville: Rutledge Hill Press. 2004. Quote from Fleming located on page 1.

Ask yourself, does this book help me advance towards my genealogy goals? Comments or questions, please contact Selma Blackmon, Thank you!

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