[or-roots] Uploads and Documentation of Files

[Glen Jones]

Carla
I have had the same thing when merging files, besides family tree I also use Paf and ended up with over two thousand entries in merging one time, and I always try to document where the info comes from so if I need to go back and check something I know where to look.
Glen
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: CKlooster at aol.com<mailto:CKlooster at aol.com> 
  To: or-roots at sosinet.sos.state.or.us<mailto:or-roots at sosinet.sos.state.or.us> 
  Sent: Monday, June 14, 2004 7:12 PM
  Subject: Re: [or-roots] Uploads and Documentation of Files


  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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