Q : Relatives told me to watch The Patriot staring Mel Gibson because it has to do with our Scottish ancestry. Would you please comment on movies and YouTube type videos when it comes to genealogy or historical research.
A: I think you know that in general film makers often take a point of view that might not be historically accurate, Your question does lead me to point out that in writing your book you need to be specific.
Separate what is documented, what is oral history or opinion, provide references and notes such as “Interview with Aunt Bess - September 6, 2025 - Albany New York. She said the action depicted in the movie The Patriot starring actor Mel Gibson reflects our family history. Research shows our ancestor John Smith was a member of the church that was burned down with people locked inside by the British.”
My advice to all researchers is BE NICHE SPECIFIC. Whatever the general history be sure it’s true for the country, state, county, township, village. Communication was slow compared with today’s and word that a war had ended or slavery had ended, as examples, didn’t get to everyone at the same time.
C 2025 Ancestry Worship - Genealogy BlogSpot
