Our Story

Last month, StoryCorps pulled into town and my mom mentioned that we should try and record our family’s unique history. At that time I was unfamiliar with StoryCorps and I listened as my mom explained the unique oral history that is shared through interviews in which the organization records and then stores the recording in the Library of Congress. She mentioned how she’s enjoyed listening to others’ stories over the years when listening to NPR.

I was immediately on board with participating in this unique opportunity to have our family history recorded and shared with others. One of the main reasons why I was so excited about this opportunity was because I had spent a significant amount of time researching my family roots. I began my research in preparation of our family’s centennial celebration of our ancestors homesteading land in Gadsden, Arizona. Learning about the former generations opened the doors to the past. I enjoyed sharing the findings with our family during our memorable celebration. With the combination of family research of my mother and I we scheduled our StoryCorps interview.

As we walked up to the Airstream to record our story, i was humbled to have the chance to interview my mother about our family’s farm history in our community. During the interview, I heard my mother retell favorite family stories as well as ones I had never heard before. I always enjoy hearing my aunts and uncles share stories from their childhood, but now a great piece of our history has been recorded and archived. While I have the opportunity to work with my mom, our 40- minute interview is one that I’ll never forget. It was a unique opportunity for my mother and I to have a conversation about our roots without distractions.

I’m thankful for this opportunity that allowed me to listen, honor and share our story.

Preserving our family stories on the StoryCorps Mobile Tour

Share Your Story

StoryCorps travels to 10 cities in the United States each year, providing opportunities for people to share their stories. The organization tries to get over 100 interviews in each city that are a representation of the area. Pairs of people are able to sign-up for an interview that can last up to 40 minutes. StoryCorps has a talented staff, that will make you feel right at home and the recording takes place in the fabulous StoryCorps Airstream! If you just aren’t sure what to chat about, StoryCorps has lists of questions that you can use on their website. This is a great resource to get you thinking about the interview.

Once the recording is complete, you have the option to share your recording with StoryCorps or you can keep it to yourself. Those that are shared with the organization are then archived in the Library of Congress.

StoryCorps on the Road

StoryCorps has one week left in Yuma, Arizona. There are still slots available, so if you’re local, make sure to sign-up. At the start of 2020, the Airstream is headed to Santa Monica, California. I encourage you to sign-up when StoryCorps arrives in your town. It will be a day you won’t forget!

If you can’t make it to a StoryCorps location, download the StoryCorps App and record and archive an interview.

Listen to hundreds of stories at www.StoryCorps.com. You can find out more information about this independently funded organization on Facebook, Instagram or their website.