Accuracy in Data and Oral History

Accurately recording your family history is crucial. First, record what you find, even if it conflicts with other information. Be sure to state the conflict. Then, continue your research to find the correct information. This method may sound contradictory, but it records all possible options. One of the options will lead you to the correct answer.

For example, I found six documents listing six different birth years for one ancestor. In her narrative, I initially stated she was born between 1853 and 1862 – a large nine-year range. I listed the years and then named the six records where I found the data. I knew the source documents were secondary sources, so I continued my research and finally found her birth record listing her birth in 1856. Recording all information, even if the accuracy is suspect, is essential. Inaccurate information can be a clue that helps you find the correct data. In addition, noting the contradictions in your narrative helps validate your other research because it shows the care you use in compiling your data.

Family oral history is another crucial area where accuracy is a concern. Treat the oral history you hear as a treasure. However, if some facts seem inaccurate, remember that some parts of the story may have a grain of truth, and some may be exaggerated. So, record the story as told by your family, including misspellings of names and places. However, try to confirm the details. If you find some parts are wrong or exaggerated, leave the original story as told, but then add your version explaining how and why it differs. Future generations may be able to find more facts that sort out the discrepancies and resolve the problem areas of the stories.

Also, remember that memories of older relatives often fade, and facts get confused with other stories. Therefore, you may not be able to verify it. However, the information you obtain through oral interviews may exist nowhere else, and you must take the data at face value until you find better information.

Look for the story and have fun with your ancestors.