RESEARCH THE HISTORY AND CULTURE OF LOCALITIES

Using Magazines for Cultural History

Magazines often contain good articles about the history and geography of locality. National Geographic Magazine , and others, often contain pictures of the people and lifestyles of various parts of the country. Often, there are articles about the country from which an ancestor has emmigrated.. For example, in the April 1981 issue of National Geographic, a wonderfully detailed map of Ireland was included. A write-up on the history of Ireland was printed on the rear of the map, complete with smaller maps showing changes in governments. This history is entitled ""Historic Ireland, From Pre-Christian Times to the Turmoil of Today"".

Another National Geographic map published in details the history of France. The entire United States is detailed in many section maps published various years. These maps are printed in full color, and usually available for viewing in the Vertical Files of your Public Library. To find the exact date of articles and maps published, check the Index to National Geographic. You also might want to check with friends and used book stores to see if they have copies of the old edtions and the accompanying maps, or write to the National Geographic Society.

Also, check to see if your library has back issues of The Genealogical Helper. This magazine contains articles, queries, advertisements, and how-to information on a wide variety of genealogical topics.

Join Local Historical, Cultural, and Genealogical Societies

Patrons should join the local historical and genealogical societies in the area of their research. These societies collect primary and secondary source material about the area being researched. Some of their material is rare or unique, and can only be viewed by visiting their museums. Patrons will be put on mailing lists of these organiziations and can receive Newsletters and other updates on local research. Usually newsletters will allow queries for specific information from members. Meetings may be held on a regular basis where the patron can meet others interested in the same families, and the same local information.

Some areas also have groups from specific areas or even from other countries. These groups may have members who lived in the same places as your ancestors, and speak the same languages. They can be helpful with geography and language translation problems too, so give them a call and visit their meeting. You may even find it helpful to join their group. Sometimes these ethnic clubs will put on festivals or fiestas or powwows where you can watch native folk dances, eat food from that culture and buy cultural items or works of art. The St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society in Florida has a huge cultural fair each year with dozens of countries and cultures participating. Events such as these give people from a particular culture an opportunity to share their culture with you, so visit one if you can.

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• Table of Contents

  Geography of Locality

  History of Locality

  Government of Locality

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  • Book Resources
  • Library Resources
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• Vital Records
• Government Records

This website written and designed by:
Sharon Marie Centanne,
Genealogy Research Instructor and Internet Trainer
Please direct any questions to:
Sharon.