Weimar Friends of the Library host family historian

On Friday, Oct. 27, at 10 a.m. the Friends of the Weimar Public Library will present author Elaine Thomas, who will share tips and techniques for recording the stories of older relatives, friends, and neighbors.

Years ago, the tradition of passing down stories in a family was very common, a practice that is not as common in the present day. Whether because of distance from family, time constraints from busy schedules that limit quality time, the tradition of passing family stories down has waned over time.

Thomas, a prolific recorder of family stories that understands how to connect people of different generations, locales, and mindsets, will help participants understand how to preserve their own family stories.

The author will share her tips and techniques for not only getting the stories, but also recording them for the future. Thomas says that because some stories may have already been recorded on micro-cassette or other recordings, she welcomes participants to bring the recordings with them to the program.

Elaine Thomas, of La Grange is an award-winning non-fiction author. Her books include Stories I’ve Been Told, vol. 1, Stories I’ve Been Told vol. 2, Veterans Voices and Homefront Memories, Same Moon, Same Stars, and Saddles and Service. She grew up on a farm in Southern Alberta, Canada, and now writes from a farm she and her husband, Emil, live on in Fayette County, Texas.

In addition, Thomas’ works include numerous feature stories, newspaper columns, and special publications. She has spent decades as a corporate business writer in Houston.

“When people share their life stories and companies chronicle their histories, I’m doing more than preserving fascinating glimpses of the past,” Thomas said, “I’m creating a forum to share meaningful life lessons, beliefs, and experiences for generations to come.”

The program is free. Please RSVP to the Weimar Public Library at 979-7256608.