For me genealogy is not just a word, it is a connection to all those folks, family who lived before me, my parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and even those I never met. Weird huh? But in looking at say a 1920 census entry and seeing my grandparents in their late 20’s, early 30’s I wonder how much different they were then than they were, when I knew them and they were in their 70’s. I go back to the 1880 census and see who were neighbors and without much looking I run across a name that in one way or another connects to my family. And, I go back to the 1840 census, scratch my head and wonder why, why didn’t the census ask for names other than the head of household? I could have had so many questions answered if beginning with the first census in 1790, if everyone’s name was given. Of course it would be much easier if folks could spell better and write more legible. Oh well, sounds like I’m wishing someone had just left me a diary, each generation precisely recorded for posterity. And while that is an interesting and maybe even tempting thought, it would take the fun out of finding your ancestors.
Yes, it is fun, finding a name and approximate age and following their steps to unexplained places. Why did they leave Tennessee for Arkansas or Kentucky or Missouri or Texas? Probably the same reason those before them left North Carolina and Virginia for Tennessee or today some leave their homes for even farther away lands. Perhaps we all have “nomads” in our heritage, travelers with an “itch” to see other places. Perhaps there are some who relocated for jobs or seeking the proverbial “pot ‘o gold” or are just restless souls with challenges to conquer?
Regardless of the reason, our ancestors were traveling folk from Europe, Asia and literally all parts of the world. Westward Ho, and west they went!
As always thank you for stopping by, hope you enjoy my words and remember, comments are welcome and encouraged.
Have a GREAT evening!
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