The devastating fires here in Los Angeles County have left many families grappling with profound loss—loss of loved ones, homes, and irreplaceable memories. As genealogists, we often focus on preserving the stories of those who came before us. Yet, these tragic events are a stark reminder that preserving our own memories and legacy is just as crucial. In genealogy, the foundational rule is to start with yourself and work backward. I believe this principle should extend beyond research and encompass all aspects of genealogy preservation. When my daughter and her husband had to evacuate due to the Eaton Canyon fire here where we live, it brought this truth into sharp focus. While packing essentials—vital documents, medications, water, food, and supplies for their dog—she hesitated when deciding whether to grab one of her “memory boxes.” In that moment, the importance of preserving those irreplaceable personal memories became evident. Homes and material possessions can be replaced, but the unique pieces of our family’s story cannot. Why Starting with Yourself Matters Genealogists dedicate countless hours to documenting family histories. We preserve old photos, letters, and heirlooms from previous generations. Yet, how often do we turn the lens inward to safeguard our own stories and memories? Starting with yourself is not only the first rule in genealogy research but should be the guiding principle for all preservation efforts. Here’s how to make it happen: Steps to Preserve Your Memories
Lessons from the Fires When disaster strikes, the things we value most become clear. For my daughter, it wasn’t the house or the furniture she worried about—it was the box of cherished memories. This underscores the need to prioritize preserving the intangible pieces of our lives that define who we are and where we come from. As genealogists, our mission is to honor and preserve the past. Let’s ensure that future generations have a complete story—one that includes us. By starting with yourself, you not only protect your legacy but also set an example for others to follow. In doing so, you contribute to a living, breathing family history that can withstand the tests of time and tragedy. Final Thoughts The first step in genealogy research is to start with yourself and work backward. Let’s expand that rule to encompass all of genealogy. Start with yourself first in preserving your memories, stories, and legacy. By taking these steps now, you ensure that your family’s story—including your chapter—will endure, no matter what challenges lie ahead. Quick Summary
"My heart goes out to everyone who has endured unimaginable loss during the devastating fires in Los Angeles County. To our dear family friends who have suffered so greatly: please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers, and we are deeply sorry for your loss. To my family: we faced incredibly close calls, and I am profoundly grateful that we are all safe. Our physical well-being is a blessing I do not take for granted."
14 Comments
Nancy Gilbride Casey
1/13/2025 05:01:07 pm
Wow, Diane, so sorry that your family is impacted by the fires. You make great points here.
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Allyson Maughan
1/14/2025 03:57:45 pm
Yes, nice to start with yourself and preserve all that you can.
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1/17/2025 08:37:34 am
Yes, it is. Many people seem to forget that part of genealogy outside of research. ;)
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Lisa Gorrell
1/15/2025 10:23:26 am
Such good advice. I have to say only about half of what I have has been digitized. I need to get going.
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1/17/2025 08:39:18 am
Digitize your memories first, before that of your ancestor's, or your story may be lost for future generations. :)
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1/15/2025 01:42:16 pm
I'm so sorry you've been impacted by the fires. I used to live in Rancho Cucamonga. We had some scary fires and lots of Santa Anas. Hope you are all safe.
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1/17/2025 02:52:37 pm
Such a heartbreaking fire. I hope your family is ok. Much appreciate this reminder to start with ourselves and save/backup our research/mementos/photos, etc. I’ve bookmarked this timely blog as a guide for the new year.
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1/31/2025 06:20:20 am
Yes, we are fine, thank you. Thanks for book marking and glad you found it helpful! :)
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1/17/2025 09:04:29 pm
You and your family impacted by these horrific fires have my empathy. In 1998, Florida was on fire from one end to the other. One day we, living on the edge of a state forest, had fire coming at our little enclave of houses in a rural area from two different directions. I frantically packed up all our valuable financial, medical, and family documents in plastic tubs to take them to our daughters' apartment in the heart of Jacksonville, much safer from the fires than we were. Fortunately, firefighters managed to contain those two fires. Yes, preservation is of paramount importance. An additional preservation move is to donate a copy of your work to a local genealogical society.
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1/31/2025 06:23:42 am
Yes, preservation is key. As you read this blog, you see that your genealogy work is a small part of this. The main idea is to start with yourself- your own memories. Thanks for reading. :)
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Marian Wood
1/18/2025 03:19:32 am
I hope that your family continues to be safe from the threat of fire and wish everyone would be prepared to save family legacies and important items just in case. Cloud backup allows for access from anywhere, an important consideration when there's no time or space to take everything with you.
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1/31/2025 06:25:58 am
Yes, cloud backup is an extremely important consideration, after you have digitized your own memories and family photos, etc. :)
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