As Family History Month draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your discoveries—and even your surprises. Perhaps you confirmed a family story that had been passed down for generations, or maybe you discovered that something you always thought was true simply couldn’t be. Whether you broke through a long-standing brick wall, uncovered a new ancestor, or realized a cherished tale didn’t hold up under scrutiny, every verified finding adds strength and integrity to your family’s story.
But as Donald Lines Jacobus, the father of modern American genealogy, reminded us through his life’s work: Genealogy must rest on proof, not presumption. It’s a principle worth carrying forward into every project. When adding new facts to your tree, ensure each one is supported by documentation—and whenever practical, verify it with at least two independent sources. Doing so not only confirms accuracy but also preserves the credibility of your research for those who will build upon it in the years ahead.
Family history isn’t a one-month pursuit. It’s a lifelong process of curiosity, analysis, and storytelling. As we move into the holiday season, take a few moments to record what you’ve learned this month, cite your sources, and share your findings with others.
Our ancestors’ voices may grow faint with time, but through careful research and sound proof, we keep them speaking clearly for those who follow.