Although not everything is online, I really appreciate being able to access digitized photos, letters, postcards, and documents when researching my family tree.
In fact, some museums, libraries, historical societies, and other institutions welcome the digital donation of old photos and printed items. This is a great way to share family history without physically letting go of the actual items.
Above, a screen grab from the online Case Western Reserve Encyclopedia of Cleveland History. The photo is one of several digitally donated by my husband's family, along with names, dates, and places.
These digital images now accompany the online history of the Cleveland Heights Youth Theater. Pictured here is a rehearsal of a 1950s children's TV show that was broadcast from downtown Cleveland.
By donating these digital images, the family is helping others learn more about the youth theater and the key role it played in the lives of participants.
Do you have photos, documents, postcards, printed genealogies, or other items from the past that might be of interest to an institution if digitally donated? Think of this as another way to share your family's history!
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For more about preserving family history for the future, please see my concise guide, Planning a Future for Your Family's Past.
