Interviewing relatives is a cornerstone of genealogical research, offering a personal touch that documents and records cannot replicate. These conversations can unearth valuable stories, reveal forgotten details, and forge stronger family connections. Whether you’re a novice eager to trace your roots or an experienced genealogist looking to deepen your family history, mastering the art of interviewing relatives can unlock invaluable insights. Here’s how to approach these interviews with empathy, respect, and a keen investigative sense.

Prepare Thoroughly

Identify Your Goals
Before reaching out to relatives, clarify what you hope to achieve. Are you filling gaps in a family tree, seeking stories about specific ancestors, or gathering a broader family history? Your objectives will shape the questions you ask.

Research Beforehand
Enter each interview with a basic understanding of the family member’s place in the tree and any relevant historical context. This preparation shows respect for your relative’s time and can lead to more productive conversations.

Prepare a List of Questions
Craft a list of open-ended questions that encourage storytelling. While it’s important to have a guide, remain flexible; the best insights often come from unexpected tangents. You can create your own list of questions, or use oral history question lists found online like this one from UCLA.

Setting Up the Interview

Choose the Right Setting
Select a comfortable, quiet setting for your conversation. A familiar and relaxed environment can help your relative feel at ease and more open to sharing.

Consider Recording the Interview
With permission, record the interview. Audio recordings capture nuances and emotions that notes cannot, and they serve as precious keepsakes for future generations. Ensure you have all necessary equipment ready and tested.

Conducting the Interview

Build Rapport
Begin with easy questions to build rapport and comfort. Share what you’ve learned in your research and express genuine interest in their stories.

Listen Actively
Be an active listener. Encourage your relative to elaborate on stories with follow-up questions, and show empathy and interest in their experiences. Remember, this is as much about building relationships as it is about gathering data.

Respect Emotional Boundaries
Be mindful of sensitive topics. If a relative seems uncomfortable, gently steer the conversation elsewhere. Respect their wishes if they prefer not to discuss certain subjects.

Capture the Details
Encourage your relative to provide as much detail as possible, including full names, dates, and locations. These specifics can be crucial for verifying information and advancing your research.

After the Interview

Organize and Review
Soon after the interview, organize and review your notes and recordings. Transcribe key points and stories to ensure they’re accurately captured.

Follow Up
Send a thank you note to express your gratitude for their time and stories. This is also a good opportunity to clarify any points or follow up on unanswered questions.

Share Your Findings
Consider sharing what you’ve learned with your family. Not only does this honor the contributions of your interviewees, but it can also stimulate further conversations and corrections.

Reflect and Plan
Reflect on the interview process. What worked well? What could be improved? Use these insights to refine your approach for future interviews.

Interviewing relatives is a powerful method for genealogical research that does more than just fill in branches on your family tree. It breathes life into names and dates, turning them into rich narratives of struggle, triumph, and everyday life. Each interview is an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and ensure that the legacies of those who came before us are preserved for those who will follow. With preparation, empathy, and curiosity, you can uncover the stories that define your family’s unique journey through history.