Family/Community History Questionnaire

(Adapted from EAM Oral Histories, Addison-Wesley Family History Questionnaire,

“Remember When” game)

Main Categories Example Questions

General Knowledge When were you born?

Where were you born?

Do you have any brothers or sisters?

Did you have a nickname?

How did you get it?

Family Who were your grandparents?

Where were they from?

Why did they come here?

How did they earn a living?

Do you have any holiday traditions?

How did your parents meet?

Were you named after anyone special?

What are your first memories of your parents/grandparents?

Education Tell me about your school day.

What did you play at recess?

Were there any problems at your school?

What did you want to be when you grew up?

What kind of a student were you?

What were your favorite subjects?

Everyday Life What kinds of clothes did you wear?

What was your favorite meal?

Tell me about your best friend.

What was your neighborhood like?

Entertainment What did you do for fun?

Who were popular role models?

Work Did you have specific career goals?

What kinds of jobs did you have?

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

How have world or national events affected your work?

Historical Events What events took place in your lifetime?

How did this affect you personally?

What are some changes you’ve seen take place since you were a child?