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My
fondest memories are enjoying a hearty Sunday breakfast with the family and
listening to my father tell stories of his childhood during the
1930s-1940s. I am forever grateful that I recorded my father’s
reflections. Now that he is gone, these recordings are more precious than gold!
It is my passion for the human experience that twines in and
around the facts and events of history that directed me to Oral History. After
all, it is through Oral History, the stories of the individual, that we breathe
life and emotion into the timeline. Thanks to technology, it’s easier
than ever to capture the moments that time too quickly erases.
Below I share a glimpse into Oral History and my work in the
field. I hope that you will soon reach out to document your family’s stories,
experiences, and background to preserve the past for the future!
Books
"Why
do Chickens Have Feathers"
Melissa's discusses her
first oral history book. "Chickens" is a collection of
stories based on her father's reflections growing up in Crainville,
Illinois during the Great Depression.
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"Conversations:
The 1920s Generation"
Melissa talks about her
current project. While the 21st century chats about the "Baby
Boomer" generation, Melissa is focusing her interviews on men and
women of the "1920s generation". |
Oral History Video Service
Montgomery Creek Publishing has partnered with Apex
Media Solutions, a full-service media production firm, to provide an Oral
History Video Service. The service provides a seamless life story interview
experience from the initial consultation to final production to preserve a loved
one’s past for the future.
Presentations
Check out Presentations
for details about Melissa's workshops and other speaking venues.
Articles
Melissa's Oral History Projects
Melissa discusses her various Oral History Projects.
What is Oral History?
Oral History is essentially the verbal telling of an experience.
A definition of Oral History Storytelling is provided.
References for Oral History
Provides some helpful references regarding Oral History.
Also, gives website links to the Oral History Association, Studs Terkel, and Tom
Brokaw.
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