Historical societies can help those who help themselves

Often genealogists overlook local historical societies as resources.

It’s true that most Maine historical societies are small, underfunded, and staffed only by volunteers with varying skills and knowledge of genealogy. But their collections can be truly amazing and you can often find wonderful things there. Don’t be surprised though to find there isn’t a comprehensive catalog of the collection and it’s rare to find an every name index for items such as diaries or scrapbooks.

Even finding a society can be a challenge as many aren’t online so I advise calling the town clerk or librarian for contact information. And, sometimes there won’t be a society in a town but a surrounding town’s society may have acquired items about other communities.

But, before dashing off for a jaunt to an ancestral town’s society here are a few things to remember. First, call ahead. There’s no sense driving perhaps for hours only to find the person who knows the collection best isn’t available. Also, posted open hours can change without notice due to unforeseen circumstances. So, before you go make sure someone knowledgeable will be there and the collection available for use.

Second, do your homework. I can’t stress this one enough. To make your visit count find out where your family lived in the town (census records are great helps), where they worked, who were their neighbors, the names of in-laws and where they lived, nearby stores — in short just as many clues as possible.

Arriving and saying “Tell me about my ancestors” probably won’t yield much. Asking only for your family surname may result in an “I don’t think we have anything” but that doesn’t mean they don’t have information.

Some of what you are looking for may be hidden under other surnames. For example, the society may have material on a neighboring family including diaries, letters, or scrapbooks. You might find your family mentioned within those pages but to do that you will need to broaden your search and hunt.

Third, remember your genealogical manners. If you are rude or demanding (and I know you aren’t but some genealogists can be) you hurt all genealogists. Ask permission before copying or scanning documents or photographs. Be sure you follow the rules established by the society.

Remember, treat all items you handle respectfully. And it would be nice if you can make a small donation since most historical societies have limited budgets. It doesn’t have to be a huge amount but every little bit will help them preserve their documents and photos and keep their building accessible.

I also recommend a thank you email or note. It will be appreciated and should you ever have to go back to do more research you want them to remember you as a gracious, polite researcher, someone they can trust. As the old saying goes you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar and for a genealogist as for everyone else this is good advice.

Nancy Battick is a Dover-Foxcroft native who has researched genealogy for over 30 years. She is past president of the Maine Genealogical Society, author of several genealogical articles and co-transcribed the Vital Records of Dover-Foxcroft. Nancy holds a MA in History from UM and lives in DF with her husband, Jack, another avid genealogist. You can contact Nancy at nbattick@roadrunner.com.