Problem

Creating a family genealogy tree required collecting information from family members and anyone else who may know more on my family’s background. This is a time-consuming process that requires interviewing people and gathering information. The challenge was to collect all the necessary information and create as much an accurate tree as possible.

Solution

We conducted this project together as family members, which made it easier to gather information. We interviewed over 20 people and gathered the information in various languages. Using genealogy software, we conducted data entry and created a tree which has around 300 family members constructed on it, going back 7 generations. We also verified the accuracy of the data by cross-referencing with other sources such as birth certificates, or other legal records including when possible. Unexpectedly, this project significantly explored the impacts of the 1947 India-Pakistan partition on genealogy. We came to learn of new stories surrounding 1947 and our family and community’s experience, while uncovering unknown biographical knowledge of family members before the partition, leading to a greater emotional impact and understanding of our social and cultural identity.

Impact

Created an accurate family genealogy tree going back 7 generations
Verified accuracy of data by cross-referencing with other sources
Preserved important family history for future generations
Inspired other family members to contribute to the project
Increase in knowledge about our family history by uncovering previously unknown facts and biographical information
Significant increase in interest in genealogy among family members after completion of the project
100% increase in appreciation for our ancestors and their contributions to our lives after completing the project.

Future work:

Preserve the stories and biographies of ancestors by validating the information and creating completed documents. Collect photos and other media to showcase the stories of individuals, highlighting those who lived during the 1947 partition
Create a webpage to showcase the entire genealogy tree and family ancestry, while highlighting the impacts of the 1947 partition, and other significant sociopolitical timelines that impacted the family.

Team

Gurleen Kheeva - Project Manager
- Oversaw the entire project from start to finish including conducting interviews, verifying data accuracy, creating the tree using genealogy software, and inspiring others to contribute.
Balwant Kheeva - Project Coordinator
- Conducted data collection for the project from start to finish by interviewing family members and other individuals, finding leads for better data collection, and while verifying data accuracy.

Accurately Mapped 7-Gen Family Tree