Preserving Your Family History

Your family history or genealogy collection is more than just old papers and photos—it's the tangible connection between generations. Here are six essential practices to help these treasures survive for many years to come.

1. Handle with Clean Intentions (and Hands) - Those natural oils on your fingers? They're your documents' worst enemy. Always wash and thoroughly dry your hands before touching original materials. For photographs and negatives, consider wearing cotton gloves. Think of each item as irreplaceable—because it is.

2. Create a "Preservation Zone" - Designate a storage area away from your home's danger zones. Attics, basements, and exterior walls subject your treasures to temperature fluctuations and moisture, the silent destroyers of paper and photographs. Aim for stable conditions: 65-70°F with 30-50% humidity. Keep materials away from direct sunlight, which fades photographs faster than family stories change over time.

3. Invest in Archival Materials - Those old shoeboxes and magnetic photo albums? They're actively destroying your history. If possible, make the switch to acid-free, lignin-free storage containers and enclosures.

4. Digitize with Purpose - Create high-resolution scans (at least 600 dpi) of important documents and photographs. Save master copies as TIFF files (for preservation) and JPEGS (for sharing). Most importantly, develop a consistent file naming system that future generations can understand without you there to explain it. Remember the 3-2-1 rule: three copies, two different storage types, one copy offsite.

5. Document the Story Behind the Artifact - That photograph means nothing without context. Create an inventory system that captures not just what an item is, but why it matters. Who are the people pictured? What's the story behind that strange-looking tool or trinket? Your descendants won't have your knowledge.

6. Plan for Succession - The most overlooked aspect of preservation is succession planning. Who will care for these materials when you can no longer? Identify interested family members, consider donating significant materials to appropriate archives or historical societies, and leave clear instructions about the importance and proper care of your collection.

Remember—you're not just preserving paper and photographs. You're preserving the evidence that your ancestors lived, loved, and contributed to the world. Your careful preservation ensures their stories—and yours—continue long after memory fades.

Need help getting started with a preservation plan or project? Give a shout!

Archival storage materials

Tobias History Research is a premier provider of history research and archives management services. With 20+ years of professional experience, founder Vicki Tobias helps clients expertly discover their history and enthusiastically share their stories. Learn more about her services.