Reunions and Reconnections

Photo by Tyler Nix on Unsplash

​This year has been a time of reunions and reconnections with friends and family and past coworkers. For those of us who “do” family history, these opportunities can help us with our research. Let’s look.

As you are aware, not every meeting or get together is appropriate for genealogy research. Almost all reunions and reconnections are important for strengthening those family and friendship ties with those we care about. There are probably studies about this, but I think that within a couple of generations, the close connections between extended families tends to disappear. It isn’t because they no longer care but more because they do not really know the extended family. This might be because of distance—not seeing relatives in their day-to-day lives—or the relatives that had the close relationship like siblings and cousins are no longer living. Their children and grandchildren might never have met some of their cousins and their families. I see it happening already within my family as each family unit gets busy, cousins have children who marry and have their own children. If the family does not live nearby, then the connection isn’t there anymore.
 
So, I propose when you do get the opportunity to meet up with distant relatives or answer that Ancestry message or email, please do. You might be helping someone else with their family history, learning more about your own family history or making a connection with someone who shares ancestors with you. Instead of trying to quiz people endlessly about research, try learning more about their lives, making those connections and contact information so that you can continue the relationship. That’s not to say that you can’t mention a topic or ask if they remember some family story or what they remembered about the great grandparents. I’m just suggesting that you also take the time to get to know them and their family.
 
I have been thinking about the numerous ways we have “reunions.” Just within the last few months, I’ve reconnected at funerals, a family reunion, a retirement part and electronically. It is much easier to stay in touch with people via a quick text or email. While the situations have varied from sad to happy, the reconnection of the attendees was what was most important. If you’re thinking about having a family reunion, there are many ways to plan and host. I know that one of my favorite things is looking at old photos when visiting relatives. They seem to trigger memories and stories. Here are some sites with ideas.
 
Family Reunions: 10 Steps to Plan (and Save Your Sanity) (familytreemagazine.com)
Family Reunion Planning Checklist Free Download (familytreemagazine.com)
 6 Things to Know About Planning a Family Reunion​ (aarp.org)
The 10 Best Family History Ideas for a Family Reunion - Holidappy
Family History & Genealogy - Family Reunion Planning (family-reunion-planning.com)
  
Whatever type of reunion you experience this year—time at the lake with friends and family, graduations, weddings, or visits with relatives—enjoy those special moments! Happy reconnecting!