The lure of marking the life of our family and creating a remembrance of them is hard to explain. For me it is a blend of curiosity, affection and respect for the lives that made our lives possible. Occasionally, it also provides understanding of our struggles.

Over fifty years ago, my father introduced me to the pursuit of family connections that involved trips to cemeteries, courthouses, libraries and letters back and forth. It was time consuming and tedious, and it was great fun.

Although the advances of technology have broadened our reach and knowledge, nothing can replace the adventures of long ago.