The Oakdale Express
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Fall 2007
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Church Records Preserve More Than
Membership History
One of the fastest growing hobbies among the Baby Boomer
generation is genealogy. Tracing one's family history can be a
daunting task, but when even the smallest piece of information is
found, it brings great joy to the researcher. The Internet has
become a valuable tool in searching for one's family, but nothing
can beat pouring through old records, photos, and newspaper
clippings.
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Looking through old church records can provide vital clues to
family history as well as local history and culture. The records
of the Oakdale United Methodist Church offer a plethera of
information on the families that have come and gone through
the years as well as some insight as to what life was like in
Oakdale through the years.
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These books have recorded names of members along with a list
of those living in the member's household. The physical address
of the member is also listed, and in some instances, specific
directions have been written to show exactly where the
residence was located.
Another interesting piece of data collected in the church
membership roll, is the member's occupation. Just glancing
through decades of records, one can see how important the
railroad was to the the town and the church. There are
numerous railroad occupations listed. One will also see the
names of lawyers, doctors, businessmen, widows, and much
more.
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Another valuable source of history found in the Methodist
Church hangs on the wall in the front entrance room. It is a quilt
top that was given to the church several years ago. The quilt
top was put together sometime around 1931 and has the names
of the church members embroidered in the squares. Finding the
name of a family member has brought great joy to many when
they have accidentally stumbled upon this beautiful treasure.
Anyone researching family history would be wise to seek out
the church's record books. It is amazing what can be found.
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