Define Reunion Scope and Common Ancestor
1 weekIdentify the shared ancestor couple and calculate descendant count for invitation list.
Intermediate1-2 months
Family Reunion Research Guide
Complete guide for family reunion research — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
reunion plannersfamily officers
Workflow
Compile Shared Family Tree Branches
2 weeksMerge research from multiple cousins; resolve conflicts with source priority rules.
Design Display Boards and Photo Walls
1 weekCreate poster-size pedigree charts and photo timelines for reunion venue display.
Prepare Presentation and Handouts
3 daysWrite 10-minute family history talk with key stories; print ancestor charts for attendees.
Tools Used
- Age CalculatorPrimary
Calculate ancestor lifespans and ages at key events for timeline display boards.
- Date Difference CalculatorPrimary
Build chronological timeline showing years between immigration, marriages, and migrations.
- Image CompressorSupporting
Prepare photo collections for print services and shared online albums.
- NotepadReference
Draft presentation script and track cousin contributions to the shared tree.
Checklist
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Planning
Research
Preservation
Presentation
Compliance
Reference Materials
Reunion Display FormatsTable
Recommended display types by venue size.
| Format | Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Pedigree poster | 24×36 in | Common ancestor focus |
| Photo timeline | 36×48 in | Multi-generational story |
| Branch tables | 8×10 per branch | Large families |
| QR photo album | Digital | Attendee contributions |
Generational SpanFormula
Average generation interval ≈ 25–30 years — use to estimate descendant counts over N generations.
Conflict ResolutionStandard
When cousin trees disagree, priority = primary source > earliest documented record > majority consensus.
Early Outreach
Contact distant cousins 2 months before reunion — they need time to search attics for photos.
Story Over Dates
Reunion attendees remember stories, not dates — lead presentations with narrative, support with charts.
Sensitive Topics
Agree with family officers on handling adoptions, divorces, and NPEs before public display.
Safety Notes
- Obtain permission before displaying photos of living family members at public reunion events.
- Be prepared for unexpected discoveries when merging cousin trees — discuss sensitive findings privately first.