Most genealogists will say the way to make a discovery is by methodical research — interviewing relatives, then going to courthouse records or good abstracts in books, and working your way back.
Many of us also have been the beneficiaries of discoveries by accident, with no rhyme or reason as to why the information came to our attention.
In my five decades of genealogical research, serendipitous discoveries were some of the best turning points:
Being at a cemetery and having two elderly ladies drive up in a large Buick, asking: “What are you doing standing on our father’s grave?”
Being at the Georgia Archives and looking down at the research notes of a much younger researcher and seeing my own ancestors listed.
Attending a genealogy meeting and, while waiting in line for lunch, striking up a conversation with a longtime friend, only to have her ask about the same family for which someone else had just told me they had found a family Bible.
Or the unexpected phone call I got one night from my Dad’s first cousin, expressing condolences over an aunt’s death. He then happened to mention his interest in genealogy and revealed information that I didn’t know anyone still living knew about.
So, I am a big believer in talking to folks, attending meetings, and expecting something else to be revealed by chance.
Athens book sale
The Heritage Room of the Athens-Clarke County Public Library, 2025 Baxter St., Athens, will hold a book sale Oct. 10, 11 and 12, running 9 a.m.-6 p.m. the first two days and 2-6 p.m. the last day.
Up for sale are hundreds of books and periodicals on Georgia and Southeastern history, culture, art and genealogy.
For further information, call 706-613-3650, Ext. 350; or email heritageroomref@athenslibrary.org.
The Heritage Room is well worth a visit, as it is a great repository of genealogical materials on Georgia and other states. See athenslibrary.org and look under "services" for details about the room, its hours and its collections.
Georgia Info
Anything you ever wanted to learn about Georgia can be found at Georgia Info, georgiainfo.galileo.usg.edu.
Check under “features” for Georgia place names; historical markers; a historical atlas of Georgia by counties; statues; and a whole lot more. There is a lot there on Georgia history in general.
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