Genealogist vs Family Historians

     Isn't a family historian the same as a genealogist, with the biggest difference being that a family historian’s focus is with their own families’ ancestry line? While a genealogist focus of research is spread a little wider, not only focusing on their own family but also providing research services to others. This still continues to be a debate among most and with some it can be a touchy situation. I thought if I looked at the definitions it might clear some of the misconceptions up. 

Genealogist;

·         the study of family history

·         research the history of a particular family showing how different members of the family are related to each other

·         an account of the descent of a person, family, or group from an ancestor  

·         attend regular society meetings while taking courses to advance their knowledge

·         the study of family pedigrees

·         an account of the origin and historical development of families

Family Historian;

·         study individuals of the past

·         rely mostly on written records for evidence to support their claims

·         their research might include looking as bibles, diaries and church records

·         they study, read and write about their families history

·         they collect documents, stories and pictures for their family history books

     I know there is so much more that I can add and more details about the multiple task that both genealogist and family historians do, but I think you get the idea.  The descriptions are so close that the only difference that sticks out is family historians focus only on their families. Then again there are some family historians that I know who also help others with their research.  I’ve heard some who believe the difference is in the check, payment for services that is. I can’t solely count the acceptance of money as the only difference, I’m sure there are some family historians who have accepted payment. You might notice that under genealogist there was the mention of attending meetings and taking courses to advance their knowledge. Funny thing about that is I’ve been to a few conferences and I’ve had the opportunity to meet some who refer to themselves as “family historians” so once again it's at a draw.

      Is it really necessary for lines to be drawn between the two?  What are your thoughts on this debate, does it really matter. I’m just happy to know that there are so many of us genealogist, family historians, archivist, librarians and researchers who care about our families past and what their lives were like.

Scanning Made Easy

     All of us have that special or favorite genealogy research tool that we use. I’ve recently discovered a new one for myself, “Flip-Pal”. If you haven’t had the opportunity to use one or even see one demonstrated you are missing out. This is a wonderful, light weight scanner that you can carry with you no matter where you go, and it’s so easy to use that my kids can even help.  My favorite new tool that I can’t live without is my

“Flip-Pal”.

     Just imagine sitting on the couch in front of the TV, with your family watching a show while scanning pictures. That’s right sitting on the couch holding the Flip-pal in your lap, with a shoe box of photos to your side. With the simple placement of the photo, face down, on the scanner and a press of the green button you’re done, or you’re scanned.

     Once you’ve scanned your box of photos just pop out the SD card on the side of the scanner. Insert the card into your computer and click to download and save. Once your photos are on your computer you simple erase what’s on you SD card, eject it out of your computer a put it back into your “Flip-Pal”. Now you’re ready to start scanning some more.

     It’s so simple to use, wither you’re a genealogist, scrap-booker or family historian I urge you to visit the site. Click on the link here on my blog and let me know what you think.