Building Connections Through Neighbor History

Historical associations can effectively engage family historians and independent scholars by leveraging neighbor history initiatives that foster community involvement and shared storytelling.

Mapping The Neighborhood: PhilaPlace connects stories to places across time in Philadelphia’s neighborhoods to create an enduring record of the city’s heritage.

Real World Signposts to History: If This House Could Talk projects can engage communities by enabling residents to post signs on their homes sharing historical data, and/or personal stories.

Focusing On Neighbors Rather than Ancestors: Family historians and independent scholars can participate in community research projects that benefit the community and may enhance their own research objectives

Here are several strategies to achieve this: