This presentation addresses the challenge of creating compelling genealogical narratives beyond simple lists of names and dates. By utilizing historical records, archives, research methods, and integrating historical context, participants will learn how to transform their family histories into engaging stories. The presentation will teach genealogists how to perform historical research and incorporate first-hand narratives, pension files, and other historical data using the example of a Gettysburg soldier. Participants will be guided through the research journey, highlighting key decision-making moments and demonstrating where and why to include historical context. This innovative approach will help genealogists add depth and authenticity to their writing, making narratives more vivid and meaningful. The presentation will inspire attendees to share their passion for family history, fostering a deeper appreciation and enthusiasm for genealogical research.
Exploring the past is about more than compiling names and dates—it’s about understanding the world in which our ancestors lived. In this engaging Webtember presentation, accredited genealogist Bonnie Wade Mucia demonstrates how to enrich genealogical writing with historical context, using the life and death of Civil War soldier Samuel Beal Shea as a case study. Drawing from military pension files, regimental histories, newspapers, and family letters, Bonnie illustrates how weaving social, cultural, and historical details into family history transforms research into compelling narratives that resonate with both genealogists and general readers alike.
Historical Context Brings Stories to Life: By situating ancestors within the events, laws, customs, and daily realities of their time, genealogical writing becomes vivid and meaningful. Mucia emphasizes that understanding broader contexts—such as political climate, boundary changes, or even weather—creates more accurate and engaging portrayals of ancestors.
Applying the Genealogical Proof Standard: The presentation highlights Standards 12–14, stressing the importance of considering broad context, topical breadth, and source-based research planning. This means looking beyond direct ancestors to neighbors, associates, and communities, and evaluating a wide range of record types—including regimental histories, diaries, maps, and even monuments.
Turning Research into Narrative: Samuel Shea’s story, culminating in his poignant final letters from Gettysburg, illustrates how meticulous research can be transformed into a moving narrative. From uniforms and marches to the personal testimony of fellow soldiers, Bonnie shows how details drawn from diverse sources can immerse readers in an ancestor’s lived experience.
This webinar is a powerful reminder that genealogy is not just about documentation—it is about storytelling that honors the lives of those who came before us. Viewing the full presentation offers not only a deeper look at Samuel Shea’s journey but also practical strategies and resources for integrating historical context into your own projects.
For genealogists eager to expand their skills, the accompanying syllabus is an invaluable guide. It provides step-by-step resources, suggested archives, and research strategies to help you uncover the social and historical frameworks that shaped your ancestors’ lives. Explore these materials to elevate your writing and ensure your family history is remembered not just as a record of facts, but as a living story that connects past to present.
Facebook
X
Syllabus
Bonnie Wade Mucia presented a meaty, well-organized program about incorporating historical context into our ancestors’ stories. Well done!
I learned so much and the syllabus is wonderful
Gave me lots of ideas even though I’m not quite ready to start writing a narrative. I’m way behind.
Can’t believe all the resources, raised my interest again in the Civil War.
Wow! Another great Webtember webinar! I’ve learned so much…definitely another webinar to revisit over and over again!
Wonderful suggestions I have not used even after nearly 40 years researching IRELAND – LAWVER — MARTIN — MCDONALD — WASS Civil War Veterans. Now I can round out several individuals personal military story. Thank you very much.
Fantastic cpresentation, Bonnie Wade Mucia does an excellent job of defining the process to bring a realistic view to a horrible event and making it relatable to the reader. Excellent thoughts and potential sources to make your writing come alive with the historical accuracy to back it up.
Outstanding presentation! Bonnie gave me new ideas to research to make my ancestor’s sketches come alive. Thank you!