For the family historian to give or receive
As the holiday season approaches, the search for the perfect gift can often be daunting. For those with a passion for uncovering and preserving family history, the right gift can be both meaningful and inspiring.
Whether you are shopping for an avid genealogist or seeking to weave the threads of your own family’s story, our carefully curated Holiday Gift Guide offers a selection of thoughtful and practical ideas that will delight any family historian. From tools to document cherished memories to subscriptions that unlock the mysteries of the past, these gifts are sure to make this holiday season memorable for all.
Family Story Video Project
Capture the essence of your family’s history with a professionally produced video project. Story on Purpose offers a comprehensive service to document and preserve your family stories in a captivating visual format. It’s a perfect gift to ensure that the voices and experiences of loved ones are cherished for generations to come.
Photo or Reprint Books
Create a beautiful photo book or reprint treasured family photos. Services like Shutterfly, Minted, and Mixbook offer customizable DIY options that allow you to compile and preserve your family’s visual history in a stunning and professional-quality book. These make heartfelt and personal gifts that can be enjoyed by all family members.
Journals
Encourage the historian in your life to document their findings and reflections with a high-quality journal. Leuchtturm1917 and Moleskine offer durable, archival-quality notebooks that are perfect for preserving handwritten notes and observations. A journal can be a valuable tool for any family historian.
Archival-Safe Storage Materials
Help protect historical documents, photos, and artifacts with archival-safe storage materials. Acid-free boxes, sleeves, and folders are essential for preserving valuable family history items. Companies like Gaylord Archival and University Products offer a range of preservation supplies that make thoughtful and practical gifts.
Genealogy Subscriptions
A subscription to a genealogy website such as Ancestry.com or MyHeritage can open up a world of resources for the family historian. These platforms provide access to vast databases of historical records, family trees, and DNA testing services. It’s a gift that keeps giving, providing endless opportunities for discovery.
DNA Testing Kits
DNA testing kits from companies like 23andMe or AncestryDNA can offer fascinating insights into one’s ancestry and ethnicity. These kits are easy to use and can connect family historians with long-lost relatives, adding another layer to their research.
Translation Services
For family historians who are dealing with records in foreign languages, professional translation services can be invaluable. Translators can help decipher old documents, letters, and records, making it possible to uncover hidden details and stories. Services like Gengo and One Hour Translation offer access to skilled translators who specialize in historical and genealogical documents. This can be an essential tool for anyone looking to build a comprehensive family history that transcends language barriers.
Historical Society Memberships
A membership to a local or national historical society can provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and educational events. Consider gifting a membership to a historical society that aligns with your recipient’s research interests.
Custom Family Trees
Commission a custom family tree print or digital artwork that showcases your family’s lineage. Artists on platforms like Etsy can create beautiful and personalized family trees that serve as both a decorative piece and a cherished record of family history.
Family Story Share or Recording Session
For a free or low-cost option, consider organizing time with family members to share or even record their family memories. Some public libraries offer recording sessions with professional equipment! Flip through a family photo album to help draw memories to the surface.
Anderson Archival Family Legacy Packages and Consulting
Anderson Archival provides bespoke family legacy packages that bundle together digitization, preservation, and organization of historical documents. These packages are ideal for those who wish to safeguard their family heritage and make it easily accessible for future generations.
Not sure where or how to start? Consulting packages can provide direction by assisting in key areas. Choose from a variety of options tailored to your specific needs that start as low as $3,000. A gift of consultation can mean the historian in your life can finally get their life’s work started.
