Iowans add stories to 'family scrapbook'

"When my dad started out 80 years ago, he rode a horse to school. Now he's been around to see people go to the moon. What's it going to be like in 50 years when I'm his age?" -- Sam, 1999

Iowans are telling their stories across generations as part of Iowa State University Extension's "Sharing Your Stories -- A Family Scrapbook" project. They're adding stories of family and friendship, work and play, tradition and change to a growing Web site, (www.extension.iastate.edu/sharingstories/). The project is another aspect of ISU's "Strengthening Families to Become the Best" celebration.

"Stories are bits of your experience or wisdom that you can share with others," said Colleen Jolly, one of the project coordinators. "When you enter a story at this site it may become a part of our Iowa Family Scrapbook. When others read your story they will learn something about life in a particular time and place. Your shared story will help to create connections among Iowa's generations."

The scrapbook began a year ago during the Farm Progress Show, where more than 240 people ranging from preschoolers to elders talked with ISU Extension staff about their experiences. Many of the stories collected at the show can be accessed from the Web site. The collection will grow as people of all ages visit the site and contribute their own stories.

Privacy is maintained on the Web site -- an author's full name and address do not appear in connection with his or her story, Jolly said. She encourages Iowans to visit the Web site and share their stories and to enjoy and learn from the stories of other generations.

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...and justice for all. The Iowa Cooperative Extension Service's programs and policies are consistent with pertinent federal and state laws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, and disability.

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• Last update: Sept. 18, 2000