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Contacting a relative for the first time - help

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GinaS

GinaS Report 7 Jul 2011 21:52

Good idea Piglets Pal,

Thank you,

GinaS

Researching:
Haughton Brocken Unwin Tomsett Splane

GinaS

GinaS Report 7 Jul 2011 09:32

Many thanks Jan and Detective for these suggestions,

Regards, GinaS

Researching:
Haughton Brocken Unwin Tomsett Splane

+++DetEcTive+++

+++DetEcTive+++ Report 7 Jul 2011 09:08

To add to brummiejan's suggestions.

If you think they are elderly, include something along the lines of suggesting they show the letter to a trusted friend or relative.

Researching:
Dormant member as from 20 Sep 2019 . Click on my board name to send a message

brummiejan

brummiejan Report 7 Jul 2011 08:35

I have done this, so I know it is a bit tricky, but I had success so here are my tips based on what I did.

I would start by saying 'my name is ..' and explain that you are doing your family tree. Say you are looking for links with, say, your uncle Fred Bloggs who married a Nellie Smith in Derby, and are wondering if they might be related. Keep it low-key, friendly but polite, and emphasise that you will fully understand if they do not wish to contact you. Make sure you enclose an S.A.E., plus email address if you feel comfortable doing this.

Most people are thrilled to bits to be contacted so try not to worry too much. Fingers crossed!

Jan

Researching:
Myatt, Hanks, Eccleston, Powell, Clungunford, Birmingham

GinaS

GinaS Report 7 Jul 2011 08:27

I would appreciate a brief outline on how to word a letter to relatives who I have found, without frightening them or they thinking it is a scam.

Many thanks

GinaS

Researching:
Haughton Brocken Unwin Tomsett Splane