Saturday, August 21, 2010

Random Acts of Genealogical Kindess

I am so excited because today was my first day as a volunteer for Random Acts of Genealogical Kindness.  I signed up yesterday after listening to the Family Tree Magazine podcast and last night I received my first request.  Being so excited, I immediately jump on the research bandwagon!  (I didn't wait 48 hours like they suggested in the How To on the website...so maybe I am a little TOO excited to start.)  Anyway, putting caution aside, I dive headfirst into researching the request which was for an obituary and a death record. After searching the indexes on my local genealogy society's website, I find which cemetery the ancestor is buried. Then I make plans to set out in the morning to the cemetery and the library - my first real genealogical act of kindness!

This morning, with the excitement brewing as well as coffee, I set out to the cemetery. I find the headstone and snap a picture. How cool is this!? I am a real researcher now because not only am I armed with a camera, but I am excited to be in a cemetery. Even the wasp and the storm clouds I see cannot spoil my mood. Next I head to the library to search the microfilm for the obituary. Lucky for me the information I was given is correct, and I am able to find a the obituary and print out a copy for my "customer" in no time flat. Monday I will be off on another adventure...to find a copy of the death record. Wish me luck!

1 comment:

  1. Sounds like a wonderful genealogical adventure! I'm sure that whoever you are helping will be most grateful.

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