Why do I "WikiTree"? My seventh year

Question

"Now is now.  It can never be a long time ago."

I remember this final sentiment from Laura Ingalls Wilder's first book, "Little House in the Big Woods".  This was Mrs. Wilder in her sixties remembering the four-year-old Laura.  I shared these books for years of fifth grade classes.

We always think when we lose a loved one that they will never be forgotten, but as we age and we and other loved ones who knew these people pass on, they are "forgotten".

My goal here is the discover and tell the story of past family members who I, and perhaps even my parents and grandparents, may never have known.  They don't have to be rich or famous or have any living descendants.  I try to tell their story so that perhaps someone in the future can meet and in some way remember that they lived.

I spend hours and sometimes days researching and writing profiles: their parents, siblings, spouses and their family, and children.  I don't participate in WikiTree events or challenges, but I appreciate WikiTree allowing me a place to record my research.

Answer 1

Thank you for being a part of our community, Cherry, and for sharing this beautiful sentiment.

Answer 2

Ditto what Chris said.

Answer 3

It beats TV, Solitaire, black jack (at least video bj) mindless conversations on facebook and so many other alternatives available. Throw in some family, shake it up with some history and pop it in the oven. Now it's all a little clearer. Without Wikitree, I would have a box full of discombobulated documented information suitable for starting a fire.

People will think I've joined my ancestors though, once the weather breaks and the fish start bitin'.

Answer 4

Since I joined in 2019 I have found WikiTree members to be very supportive, they answer my questions, some of which were very basic in the beginning. People are willing to help with questions, both how to's and how and where do I find obscure information.

I really like the ability to work on my own projects, something that really isn't possible on other sites.

I like being able to share family histories with other family members another thing that can be complicated on other sites.

One of the best things is the emphasis on accuracy, I know that there are profiles that are inaccurate or poorly sourced, by working together we do over time improve them.

It is the team approach that is most impressive.

Answer 5

Thank you Cherry, what you do is important to all of us.  And more so to someone who finds your work in the future!