Whether you are just starting out with genealogy or have been at it for years, we could all use some helpful tips. Recently, I came into some old documents after the passing of a family member. Once I sorted through all of the items, just to see what was all there, I took some steps to ensure they were well preserved. First, I document everything on a list for the individual. For example, the items I received were for my grandmother so at the top of the page I would write my grandmother's name. Then, I would write what each document was and where I got it from.
Next, if the documents are able to be scanned without being ruined, I scan everything onto my computer. Again, I create a separate folder for each individual or group, such as maternal grandparents, paternal aunts/uncles, etc. Once these are scanned onto my computer, I create a backup of the files on my flash drive. (Look for cheap flash drives with a large amount of space during the holidays or Black Friday at Staples, KMart, etc.). I have had computers crash before, losing all of my information, therefore I cannot stress enough how important it is to back everything up!
After everything is scanned onto the computer, place each document into its own ACID-FREE page protector. Acid-free is the way to go because it ensures that what's written on the pages will be legible in the future, along with other benefits. Make sure to check on everything you use when dealing with older documents for acid-free. Glue dots, scrapbook pages, and page protectors are just a few items that can be found to be acid-free.
The last step is optional, but I tend to then place my page protected documents into family binders. Be sure to check back in the near future for an example of one of these finished binders.
That's all for this time. In the next post, we will be discussing research binders and organization.
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