Writing and family history are very likely companions. Tracing family ancestry (genealogy) is a very popular hobby, and given the effort and time involved, it is an obvious next step to turn all this research into a memoir or biography.
But it's one thing to have the basis of a good story; how can you turn this into a book or article?
Sources of Information for a Biography or Memoir
The best sources are often those people closest. Find out what information is available from family members or friends. This can include photos, letters, scrapbooks, newspaper cuttings, memorabilia, anything! The more research a biography writer can do, the more details and depth they can go to within their writing.
Talking With Family and Friends
Relatives and friends, once they get talking, may provide details and information never before revealed (often because they didn't think anyone would be interested). Make the biography project known within family and friends and it can be surprising the information that people are forthcoming with. Once a researcher gets started they can be surprised where their investigation can take them. Follow leads and talk to as many people as possible.
It's important to use good interviewing techniques to get the most from this research opportunity.
Official Records
Office records, such as birth, marriages, divorces and deaths certificates can all help to clarify facts. Details such as names, can sometimes differ from someone's official name and what they have always been called in a family. Don't always assume that information is correct because everyone says it is so. It's always best to check facts against official records.
Other Records
Parish registers, census details, wills and other records can provide further information. It may also provide additional details that can enhance the biography. Consider also sporting clubs and other groups that the person may have been a member of. These are also likely to have historical records, memorabilia, photographs etc.
Personal Letters and Memorabilia
These can provide an insight into a person beyond facts. It can show their opinions, their emotions and how they reacted and felt about various situations and people. Memorabilia can show what was important to them and can provide interesting leads for a researcher.
Photographs
Photographs say much more than simply what people were wearing at the time and where they were. Look at expressions and how people are interacting together. Does this provide any insight into feelings and relationships?
Newspapers and Other Publications
Researching at local libraries can provide local historical information such as old newspaper and local publications. Discuss with the librarian who or what you are researching and they may be able to provide helpful sources.
The possibilities for research for the biography and memoir writer are endless. All it takes is perseverance and patience and undoubtedlly there is an interesting story in everyone's past.
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