
Following much discussion (with a few approaching arguments) about the use of the term "proof" in genealogy circles, Mr. Myrt and I spent a good 45 minutes talking about it ourselves before getting up this morning. (Yup, that's early morning pillow talk for two avid genealogists!) TMI?
Discussion accomplishes several worthy goals:
1. Internalizing principles taught by Dr. Jones in Mastering Genealogical Proof and other industry leaders such as Elizabeth Shown Mills in the first two chapters of Evidence Explained.
2. Comparing and contrasting said principles with one's current research practices.
3. Comparing one's practices with innovative patterns developed by local genealogy friends.
4. Extending the discussion beyond the confines of one's immediate circle of fellow researchers, diligently seeking alternative thought.
5. Acknowledging changes brought forth by new found record groups and emerging technologies.
6. Careful to eschew 21st century definitions of legal terms, understanding colloquialisms from each ancestor's residence and time period.
7. Resolving to espouse best research practices.
Wouldn't you say this becomes a cycle of learning until we get old and set in our ways?
FOR FURTHER READING
- Board for Certification of Genealogists The BCG Genealogical Standards Manual (book) now updated and revised into this new publication titled Genealogy Standards (book)
- Christine Rose's Genealogical Proof Standard, Building a Solid Case (book)
- Elizabeth Shown Mills' Evidence Explained (book, in particular the first two chapters)
- Elizabeth Shown Mills, editor Professional Genealogy: A Manual for Researchers, Writers, Editors, Lecturers and Librarians (book)
- George G. Morgan and Drew Smith's Advanced Genealogy Research Techniques (book)
- Karen Clifford, editor Becoming an Accredited Genealogist: Plus 100 Tips to Ensure Your Success, Revised Edition (book)
- Michael Nolan Henderson Got Proof!: My Genealogical Journey Through the Use of Documentation (book)
- Thomas W. Jones' Mastering Genealogical Proof (book with homework assignments)
- BCG's website: The Genealogical Proof Standard
- Elizabeth Shown Mills, "Analyzing
Deeds for Useful Clues," OnBoard 1 (January
1995): 8.
- Elizabeth Shown Mills, "Analyzing Wills for Useful Clues," OnBoard 1 (May 1995): 16.
- Evidence Explained Facebook Page
- Evidence Explained Website
- Helen F.M. Leary, "Evidence Revisited — DNA, POE and GPS," OnBoard 4 (January 1998): 1-2,5.
- Kathleen W. Hinckley, "Analyzing City Directories," OnBoard 2 (May 1996): 16.
- Sandra MacLean Clunies, "Evaluating Web Resources," OnBoard 10 (May 2004): 12-13.
- Barbara J. Mathews, "Structural Elements of A Good Genealogy," OnBoard 12 (January 2006): 1-2.
- Linda Woodward Geiger, "Guidelines for Evaluating Genealogical Resources," OnBoard 14 (May 2008): 14-15.
- Laura A. DeGrazia, "Proof Arguments," OnBoard 15 (January 2009): 1-3.
- Barbara Vines Little, "It's Not That Hard to Write Proof Arguments," OnBoard 15 (September 2009): 20-23.
Happy family tree climbing!
Myrt :)
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Myrt, since you so generously recommended several of my publications that discuss proof, may I add the more-recent thoughts published at EE's website? (https://www.EvidenceExplained.com)
ReplyDelete- QuickLesson 8: What Constitutes Proof? (October 2012)
- QuickLesson 16: Speculation, Hypothesis, Interpretation & Proof (October 2013)
Thank-you, Elizabeth. When perusing your website, I just gave up and recommended everything, but you are right to spotlight these two QuickLessons. I am happy to point my DearREADERS to them.
DeleteThere is an awesome reference list for my Evernote file.
ReplyDeleteMy struggle is not with the term "Proof", but is with the "paper trail" proof and a DNA proof, if DNA can be considered in that conversation.
Thank you for this resource list.
Russ
My challenge is to REMEMBER to use Evernote, now that I am committed, perhaps I need a big sticky note on the top of my monitor?
DeleteNo Myrt, you just need to make sure Evernote has loaded to your browser toolbar. That way, when you see something interesting on the net, the little Elephant emblem will help you remember to use it!
DeleteGood Morning from North Carolina! I am glad that you had an early morning discussion yesterday with Mr. Myrt.
ReplyDeleteExcellent information. I know when I research, I have made a point to not use the word "proof." Given that I have some paralegal training, "evidence" sticks in my head and after reading "Evidence Explained," I now drive my family nuts! Where is the "evidence"??? Show me the "evidence"!! This can get me in trouble too when I am knocking down family tales, which I'm sure you have experienced! :-)
Happy Digging!
Kristi
Pat, what a great list! I plan to keep it as a study guide.
ReplyDeleteAnd how fortunate you and your spouse are to have a shared calling!