Documenting History
Have you ever gone through old newspapers to look at ads and see what shops existed 40-50 years ago in a small town, or photos from your area to see how much it’s changed?
I remember reading about a large bushfire that tore through our area roughly 110 years ago. Back then there weren’t as many people living in our town, so everyone who went out to fight it was named individually. Any structure that was destroyed was noted, including fences. It’s fascinating to read now and work out the exact locations that were mentioned.
Historians use local newspapers and newsletters a lot when they’re researching. Whether it be specific details, just a short mention, or a photograph, it’s all important to help shape the larger picture of a specific point in time.
Sometimes I think some of my articles get a bit boring and repetitive, like the galleries of wreath laying at the local war memorial as the photos are very similar each time. But in future years local historians will be looking at those photos and articles I’ve written, and they might find some useful information as to what or who they may be writing about.
Don’t be afraid to add photos that just show a location with nothing happening, or write that extra little bit of detail, it’s all important for future generations.
Your local newsletter is the perfect way to help document history.