I feel that keeping family records and sharing them for our loved ones to pass down from generation to generation is extremly important. I have been working on my surnames list for about 3 years when my grandmother handed me a box of very old photos. I wanted to know who they were, where they came from, what they did. These were the people who made me who I am today. I worked diligently for over two years on my family. Late nights on the computer and week ends in cemeteries but I love the history, it's my history.
I was amazed one day when my husband told me he had no idea of any history of his fathers family so off I go on another mission!
I feel deeply that the info reported here is of great importance and needs to be documented correctly. Some may think its strange to go trapsing around in cemeteries taking picures of headstones but I really enjoy it. If I can help out even just one person find that "missing link" in their family tree then I will feel that I accomplished my goal.
Those of us that manage memorials have spent our time, sometimes driving hundreds of miles. Most times spending hours in front of the computer. We have waded through tall grass, weeds, mosquitoes, and rain storms. We have scoured obitsfrom our home towns. We have fallen into holes, come across snakes and other critters. Countless challenges arise when documenting and photoing these memorials. Sometimes, when we have a special bond with the person we have created the memorial for , it is done with love and through tear filled eyes. Rather than asking to manage a memorial that someone else has taken the time to set up and document, try thanking them for doing what they have done and be grateful for it.
Thank You!