Writing and Publishing Your Family History
Now is the perfect time to write your family history! Think about the legacy you will be leaving if you write and publish your own family research: not only a legacy for current and future family members, but an important resource for current and future genealogical researchers. This five-session online seminar led by the writing and publishing experts at American Ancestors will provide you with a step-by-step approach to turning your raw data into an illustrated narrative, Register-style genealogy or Ahnentafel. Topics include: organizing your materials, choosing a genealogical format, writing family stories, adding citations, page layout, and final steps in self-publishing.
Monday, December 2 – Class 1: Getting Started, Sharon Inglis
Ready to write? Learn about the decisions you'll need to make before starting: Who is your audience? What families in your ancestry do you want to cover? Learn about helpful tools and how to organize yourself before beginning to write.
Monday, December 9 – Class 2: Structure, Sketches, and Citations, Kyle Hurst
Time to get technical! In this class, we consider the genealogy's overall structure and master the numbering systems for the Register-style and Ahnentafel formats. Learn how to write a genealogical sketch in each format while properly citing sources.
Thursday, December 12 – Class 3: Adding Story to Family History, Kyle Hurst
Going beyond names and dates, how can we add narrative that brings our ancestors to life? This class will cover story structure, writing tips, and how to add biographical and contextual details that show how each ancestor lived.
Monday, December 16 – Class 4: Photos and Illustrations, Cécile Engeln
Get a handle on photo-research basics. Learn how to choose, scan, edit, and insert photos, documents, and other images to make your family history publication come alive.
Thursday, December 19 – Class 5: The Publishing Process, Sharon Inglis
Learn how to edit, lay out, proofread, and publish your work. Gain valuable tips on finding freelance editors and indexers and working with publishing vendors.
