There are numerous methods of recording your family’s history. One of the most effective, and visually appealing, ways is in a “heritage scrapbook.” Scrapbooking is currently one of the most popular hobbies, and it is a great companion to that other extremely popular hobby, genealogy. In fact, the two seem made for each other. A scrapbook can be the perfect place to display the photos and stories of your ancestors. Because they are also a great place to display your personal creativity, the heritage scrapbook is usually interesting for others to see.
For those who are unfamiliar with scrapbooking in its modern form (and there may be one or two of you out there!), you may be surprised at the differences between now and when you pasted newspaper clippings in albums 35 years ago. One of the major differences is in the quality of materials available. We now know how very important it is to save our photos and other bits of memorabilia in “archival”, “acid- & lignin-free” or “photo-safe” albums. Basically, what this means is that the scrapbooking materials and albums will be far less likely to cause degradation of your photos over time. All you have to do is look at those old “peel & stick” magnetic albums and the yellowed, faded photographs within to get an idea what the wrong materials can do. You can find these photo-safe albums, papers, and other related materials at most craft stores, some discount stores, and in the many scrapbooking stores popping up throughout the country. There are also many styles, including some created expressly for the heritage scrapbook. Most of these seem to have a nostalgic feel and are usually in the color tones of an old photograph---black, white, creams, and grays. But don’t feel limited. This is your family history we are talking about after all. If you believe your history is more accurately related on lime-green paper, with stories written in purple ink, then go right ahead!
There are some basic steps you should take before you begin creating your heritage scrapbook. As you would for any compilation of a family history, gather your photos, and any stories or anecdotes you wish to include. Keep your work sheets, and other family history records available as well, for you will probably want to refer to them as you go. You want your scrapbook to be not only attractive and interesting, but accurate as well. Here are some tips for making your scrapbook effective.
