[Genealib] Crossover Opportunities for Genealogists and Public Historians

[Sharon]

Hello,

In April of 2009, I will be a genealogical representative in a panel 
discussion about genealogy and public history at the annual conference 
of the National Council on Public History in Providence, Rhode Island. 
www.ncph.org

Public history is centered on bringing history to the public, often 
through museums, libraries, other special collections, historical parks, 
university research projects and public education programs.

In my mind, public history is an incentive for a history "of the people, 
by the people and for the people," ideally providing a context for civic 
knowledge, education and understanding for families, communities and 
nations.

Genealogy research reveals not only lineal begats, but the lives, 
fortunes or misfortunes of families and their communities over time. 
Genealogy methodology standards requires fact finding without regard to 
preferred views or generalities. As preconceptions fall away, ancestral 
lives become much more complex and interesting "microcosms in history."
A personal window into eras and layers of history that may also reveal 
family ancestry on various sides of wartime, political, economic, 
religious or social upheaval or progress.

Such ancestral views allow for a better perspective in the larger 
panoramas of history.

The purpose of sparking discussions between genealogists and public 
historians is to provide possibilities for more synergy in our efforts.

I would like to hear from folks who have observed or participated in 
projects that were founded in or produced synergy between genealogists 
and public historians. I am particularly interested in how the 
collaboration was sparked and what practical issues were addressed to 
make the project successful.

Thanks!

Sharon Sergeant