Family History Project

How well do you know your parents, grandparents or even great-grandparents?  How about an uncle or aunt in the family?  Or a cousin who lives across the country?

We all have a story and our stories are a part of God’s big story.  God uses each of us to further His Kingdom.  What’s your family’s story?

Interview a family member (or several) to learn about their story, their trials and triumphs, and everything in between!

You may want to record the interview via video or audio so you always have it!

Here are a few sample questions to help you get started.  Ask and listen away!

• When and where were you born?
• Tell me about your parents or your family background
• Where was your family originally from?
• What did your parents do for a living? Did you contribute to the family income or help parents in their work in any way?
• What was your parents’ religious background? How was religion observed in your home?
• What other relatives did you have contact with growing up?
• What do you remember about your grandparents?
• What stories did you hear about earlier ancestors whom you never knew?
• How many children were in the family, and where were you in the line-up?
• Describe what your siblings were like. Who were you closest to?
• Describe the house you grew up in. Describe your room.
• Did you have any pets?  If so, which kind and what were their names?
• What were your family’s economic circumstances? Do you remember any times when money was tight? Do you remember having to do without things you wanted or needed?
• What were your duties around the house as a child? What were the other children’s duties?
• When did you learn to cook and who taught you? Were there any special family foods or recipes? Do you still make any traditional family foods?
• What activities did the family do together?
• What did you do on Christmas? Thanksgiving? Birthdays? Other holidays?
• What was school like for you?  What subject did you like best?
• What did you do for fun in your spare time?
• What was your favorite toy?  Book?
• Did you play sports or music?  If so, which ones?

Side Note:  You can break your interview sessions into sections (good excuse to visit again).  If there is a specific time in your family members life that you would like to ask about, write up specific questions for it.