Time+Lines

In order to really understand the family histories we uncover, it might help to see how the experiences of different people in different generations fit into a bigger context. To do this, we will make time lines that show both important family events and important historical events that the subjects of those interviews remember or were happening during important times in their lives.


 * Overview of steps:**

1) Choose a theme based on personal and family interest.  As you create your time line, you will be sure to track important events within your theme. If your theme is "technology," the establishment of the Radio Corporation of America in 1919 may be something you want to include. To accompany this event, you may then include the year that your family first bought a radio. Following your chosen theme through the years will help allow you to put your family into the context of history. Themes used in the past were cars, sports, entertainment, business, music, art, migration, etc.  2) Gather and list important personal, family information. If your theme is “technology,” the years in which your family bought its first radio, first telephone, first car, and first computer could be included. If your theme is “accomplishments,” the years in which family members graduated from college, earned certain awards, or were hired for new jobs would be important. *Make sure to consider your theme as you track family events. *You may also include birthdates, weddings and interesting milestones, such as learning how to ride a bike, flying in an airplane for the first time, going away to college, moving to another state or country... 3) Gather and list important historical information. Obviously you could just look in a book or on a Web site, find a history timeline and copy it, but you will only be able to make meaningful connections if you get your interview subjects to tell you about the events they remember. Ask people about what they remember and why they remember these things. The more your historical events connect to your family, the more meaningful a document you will end up creating. *As well, make sure to consider your theme as you track historical events.

4) Collect or make visuals to go with both personal family and historical events.  These might include scanned photographs/documents or things you make yourself. Remember, the more personal, the better.

5) Put this information into time line form…

Turning the information you collect into a time line can be done in many different ways. Some options, such as a hardcover, accordion book will be demonstrated. You might choose to make some other kind of book or scroll or come up with a completely unique idea of your own. •Whatever format you choose, your time line should be done neatly and carefully. This will be an important historical document and, as such, it should not be scribbled in pencil. •Your time line should include enough events to fill the space you have chosen for it. Large gaps of blank space will make it appear as though it was not quite finished. If space is empty, FILL IT! •Your time lines can come in all different sizes and shapes, which makes it difficult to require the same specific number of events for everyone. That said, you should try to go back to the time of your great grandparents’ generation, and include at least 30 events. •Your time line should be organized in such a way that viewers can easily distinguish between family and historical events. Color-coding might be the easiest way to accomplish this.
 * Options & Guidelines:**

[|How to make an accordion book]