How to Make a Family Tree the Easy Way

There's little doubt in anyone's mind the interest a family tree provides. Amazing similarities exist between people generations apart that have never been brought to light before and sometimes the famous (or infamous) are revealed which can ignite fascinating conversations. With the help of software and cooperation of others this task can be accomplished easier than ever but I discovered a much simpler method which leaves a little a room for speculation that any healthy imagination will respond to: a Family Bush. I discovered this quite by accident.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• old photos of family members with as much information about each photo as possible.
• a good six months for word to get out and photos to come in.
• mock antique frames.
• one specific wall dedicated to this enterprise

1. 
   Uncle Harry and Aunt Matilda of West Philly.

   Look through all your family photos and snatch up the older black and white, sepia photos of family members with those serious faces that were so important back then. Avoid color photos regardless how strong the temptation. One color photo can ruin the effect. Many family members are holding on to these photos and aren't really sure what to do with them. Not until you come along! Let word out that you're working on a family tree of sorts. People will be reluctant at first but once they realize "you can't take it with you" they'll be thrilled that their photo will live on beyond themselves. You're about to discover the "snowball effect" and you'll be on the finish line with more photos than you know what to do with. Allow a good six months or more. The longer the better.

2. Carefully document all the information you can about each photo being careful not to write every detail on the back of each photo which will come through and damage the photo eventually. Be as accurate as possible. If doubt exists, use a question mark. I limit the information to names and dates on each photo. Keep a separate manifest that can be attached to the back of the finished product with all the available information at your disposal. Details are important. Leave nothing out. This may not be an official Family tree but what you create will be invaluable when someone does decide to take the initiative and attack this formidable task properly.

3. 
   My Grandmom is the little girl n the right. My Great-Grandmom is the lady in the background.

   Frame and hang each photo individually. This is where we stray from the conventional family tree and make things more interesting. Mock antiques frames are available but unfortunately the prices are not antique. This will represent your greatest investment but hey, you get what you pay for right? Arrange the pictures in a chronologic order with the most serious faces towards the top. You'll find children are as curious as adults and everyone will enjoy your work. I don't know if you believe in ghosts but the room will take on a unique character. I kept mine in a room with some antiques that adds to the dramatic affect. A wood stove or a fireplace exudes a romantic effect.

4. 
   George Washington

   A little humor goes a long way but don't overdo it. An Alfred E. Newman or a Pee-Wee Herman photo can ruin the nostalgia and even insult some people so discretion is key here. Try adding an old president and wait until you see people's reactions! Even a favorite family pet will bring smiles. Thomas Jefferson or Orville Wright would raise an eyebow. How about George Washington?

Tips & Warnings

• Buy different mock frames. No two should look alike. I suggest hanging them in a random manner rather than the painstaking even-steven exactly the same height and distance. Make this a fun project. Combine the old with the new. Ask family members for their input.
• Remember! No color photos or people won't take this seriously and all your work went down the drain.

[caspita]

on 11/19/2009 Genealogy and making a Family Tree is fascinating.

[flags4you]

on 11/19/2009 Great article about making a family tree. This sounds like a lot more fun then the written one I did in school. It's amazing what you find out. I rated it a 5.

[jhkcpa]

on 11/19/2009 Great article on how to make a family tree the easy way. 5*

[wltw]

on 11/17/2009 Cute and humorous way to make a family tree - there's no doubt everyone in the family will love it! Keep the dogs and cats at a distance - I've heard they see in color close up and they may feel cheated. 5*s!

[makaksa]

on 11/14/2009 Good information on making a family tree.