Remembering Your Roots: How Emerging Technology Will Change the Way You Learn, Discover, and Remember Your Ancestors’ Stories

A part of who you are is where you come from. The speech patterns, thoughts, beliefs, and stories about who we are, are passed in part by the generation before. In an age of technology with the world at our fingertips, is it any wonder that we want to connect with those that came before to gain strength and wisdom? To cherish a laugh, remember a voice, or just glimpse a familiar look.

The transition from traditional genealogical research to digital platforms has been transformative. With institutions like the Lehi Family History Center and the Family History Center in St. George—recently renamed the Family Search Library as of January 10, 2023—access to historical records has never been easier. Platforms like FamilySearch.org and Ancestry.com are revolutionizing our approach by providing detailed insights into our ancestors’ lives, including occupations, educational levels, and household compositions. Crista Cowan, a corporate genealogist at Ancestry.com, celebrates this progress: “It’s exciting that younger generations now have the opportunity to learn more about family members they know, like parents and grandparents. The 1950 Census provides a fascinating look at an era in our collective history, but the magic happens when you discover a more complete picture of not only what your family member’s life was like at a moment in time, but also how it changed over the decades.”

The advent of artificial intelligence has further propelled this field into a new era. Jeremy Watts-Klein of Draper, Utah, CEO and founder of Divinitus, is pioneering a service that captures and preserves ancestral memories through professionally shot and edited videos. “Part of that process,” he explains, “is recording those memories and moments for future generations to look back on and cherish before their time on earth has ended.” He shares a personal story that underscores the urgency of his mission: after his mother was misdiagnosed and passed away suddenly, all he had left was a blurry video of her playing with his daughter. “I want to give to others what I wish I had of my mother.”

Looking ahead, Jeremy envisions integrating 3D video capabilities and voice-generated AI to create interactive memory troves. These archives will not only provide comfort to those who have lost loved ones but will also inspire pride and a sense of belonging in future generations.

This technological evolution in genealogy is not just about preserving the past—it’s about enriching our present and future connections. As we blend cutting-edge technology with the age-old desire to understand our roots, we not only safeguard our history but also ensure its relevance for generations to come, fostering a deeper appreciation for the intricate tapestry of human experiences and cultural heritage.