|
|
|
| I began genealogy when my father retired. He was far from home and family, and noticed it much more without his regular activity. Soon, though, I got hooked. It was a way to see the history of the country, and later countries, through the lives of ordinary individuals. I follow one family's path across the continent, and when I follow another family, their path is the same. It leads to a view of migration routes, which are influenced by the larger events. One of my favorite families were the Guillets. I found them in France, ardent supporters of Napoleon. When one brother was captured at Waterloo, and immediately killed, the other left for the coast, and grabbed the first ship out. It went to Maryland, where he settled and built a house with a secret tunnel and hiding area. His plan was to smuggle Napoleon into the United States, to become the emperor here. After the death of Napoleon, the family moved to Missouri, where they supported the South. When it was obvious that their side was going down in defeat, remembering the outcome in France, they took off for Brazil. Brazil turned out to be such a disaster, with Yellow Fever and other problems, that when the family thought it safe those remaining moved to Louisiana. Among the family letters there was a circular warning the residents there to avoid strangers, because they brought Yellow Fever with them, in the bad air in their suitcases. Yellow Fever certainly claimed a number of them. In my line, only two daughters survived, and the name died out. I admire their passion and commitment, no matter the cost. They also turned a great fortune into poverty. One moral, I suppose, is pick your battle carefully. Family Tree Maker's Genealogy Site User Home Pages Innes-Rucker and Related Families is my genealogy site. It is generally a list of family names - those who find a family name email me directly for further information. All genealogy on the web, and in general, is a cooperative effort. Clan Innes Scottish Society - USA now has a very fine Clan genealogist, who is working hard on all the lines. Cyndi's List of Genealogy Sites on the Internet is in my opinion the best source for finding anything. There is no need for another. The Rucker Family Society The Rucker Family Society genealogist is nothing short of amazing. Her grandmother authored a large book on this subject, and she is continuing the family tradition. The USGenWeb Project - Home Page 'nuff said.
|