Genealogy (FAMILY TREES) Encore with Stephen Hanks - Ologies with Alie Ward Recap

Podcast: Ologies with Alie Ward

Published: 2026-02-04

Duration: 1 hr 8 min

Summary

In this encore episode, Alie Ward dives into the fascinating world of genealogy with expert Stephen Hanks, discussing the importance of tracing family histories and the complexities involved in uncovering one's ancestry. They explore how personal stories and historical records connect us to our past.

What Happened

Alie Ward kicks off the episode by drawing attention to the nature of genealogy, noting that it is distinct from genetics and instead focuses on tracing family origins. She humorously introduces Stephen Hanks, a genealogist with over three decades of experience, whose journey into genealogy began in 1989 when a letter from a cousin piqued his curiosity about his family's history. This letter, containing an obituary with names of relatives he didn’t recognize, ignited a passion that would lead him to explore his ancestry deeply.

Stephen recounts the early days of genealogy research, emphasizing the challenges of working without the internet. He describes his trips from Portland to Seattle's National Archives, where he sifted through microfilm and census records to piece together his family tree. A key insight he shares is the genealogist's rule: to work backward from what you know, rather than starting from the unknown. This method not only helps in navigating records more effectively but also adds an element of excitement, akin to detective work, as he uncovers his family's past, including their roots in Mississippi and the complexities surrounding their history related to slavery.

Key Insights

• Genealogy focuses on tracing family origins, not genetics.
• Personal stories and historical records create connections to our past.
• Research methods have evolved from traditional archives to digital resources.
• The genealogist's rule is to start from known ancestors and work backward.

Key Questions Answered

What is the difference between genealogy and genetics?

Genealogy pertains to the tracing of family origins and lineage, while genetics focuses on the biological aspects of heredity. Stephen clarifies that the root word of genealogy, 'gena', means to give birth to, linking it to origins rather than genetic traits.

How did Stephen Hanks start his genealogy journey?

Stephen's journey began in 1989 when he received a letter from a cousin containing an obituary listing relatives he didn't know. This sparked his interest in uncovering his family's history, leading him to research extensively.

What challenges did genealogists face before the internet?

Before the internet, genealogists relied heavily on physical archives, visiting libraries, and using tools like microfiche and microfilm to access census records. Stephen recalls making long drives to Seattle's National Archives to find records vital for his research.

What is the genealogist's rule?

The genealogist's rule is to start with what you know about your family and work backward to the unknown. This method prevents confusion and allows researchers to build a clearer picture of their ancestry by starting from familiar names.

What historical context did Stephen Hanks uncover about his ancestors?

Stephen discovered that his great-grandparents moved from Mississippi to Kansas, highlighting the complex history surrounding their migration, particularly in relation to the legacy of slavery. This aspect of genealogy not only reveals family ties but also reflects broader historical narratives.