[or-roots] Uploads and Documentation of Files

[CKlooster at aol.com]

I always think of documentation in terms of my own research notes.  I'm not 
particularly concerned with photocopies of documents and certificates (except 
to the extent that those documents provide information).  What I am concerned 
with is noting where I obtained specific information...this, to me, is 
"documentation".  I have documentation notes that say "according to Mrs. Jones....".  
If names or dates come from a cemetery inscription I always note who copied it 
(me or someone else). 

I use sites that have searchable databases and I do incorporate family that I 
find there into my own record...but I also note the source and keep searching 
for corroborating sources.  My strategy, using FamilyTreeMaker software, is 
to keep a "draft" or working file in which to store or sort names while I 
verify the data. Once I feel confident that the data is correct, I merge it into my 
permanent file...sometimes with a note that says "More research needed".  

I think some of the problems (i.e. twenty marriages to the same man, etc.) 
may be from the merge feature on some of the genealogy software.  Inadvertently 
merge Andrew the elder with Andrew the younger and suddenly we have Andrew Jr. 
married to his mother.  It's happened to me.  If I find errors in on-line 
data bases, I make an effort to contact the submitter.  We all make mistakes and 
if I have an error in my data, I really appreciate it when someone gives me 
the correct information...and those puzzles which require proving and disproving 
are what makes genealogy fun for me.

I have mixed feelings about the companies that encouraged us all to submit 
our data and now sell it by subscription or CD, but if people don't publish 
their research online, it certainly limits our opportunities to connect with our 
many "cousins" out there.

Carla
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