| What is personal history?
 A personal history is the preservation of a person’s life story. It can be done in a wide variety of ways and types. It is generally collected in visual, audio or written form. Why would anyone be interested in my life story, I haven’t lived a very interesting life?
You could not be any further from the truth with your question. If you think about it, no one before you nor after you will live life exactly like you have. Everyone has a unique story and I know we have yet to come across one that isn’t interesting. No matter how ordinary of a life you think you have lived, it will be something that future generations will want to know about and will find worthwhile. Just look back at your great-grandparents for example. Wouldn’t you be interested to know their life story as told by them? I have the family tree done. Why is it necessary to do a personal history?
A family tree is often just names and dates. A personal history puts a story to those names and dates. It puts the leaves on the tree if you will. Not only should you put your story behind your name and date, but also try to collect the stories of those names on the tree who are still alive as well and collect as much information about those who have passed. What is the best form to save a personal history?
All three forms have their advantages. Some people like the idea of seeing the person’s mannerisms and expressions, voice, etc. while they tell their story which makes video ideal. Others like these benefits, but may be camera shy, making an audio recording the route to go. And lastly, others would like the story put down in a beautifully bound book. It really depends on your personal preference. What are the different types or ways of doing a personal history?
Please go back to our section on definitions to see the various ways to do it. This section includes the most common ways, but other possibilities of doing it are as diverse as the many stories out there. Can I do a personal history myself?
By all means yes. There are a number of great books, kits and websites out there to do so. Please see our resource section. If I decide I need help or want to hire someone to do the personal history, where would I find them?
The best place to start is with the Association of Personal Historians. The association is made up by people and organizations with a wide range of skills and specialties, all dedicated to helping people save their stories. They have a directory that will help you locate someone by location or specialty. | 
