Become a Primary Source
Keep a pandemic journal
Our lives have changed drastically in the last few weeks. Schools have closed, we have been asked to stay home, and we are living through a new chapter in our local history. Things we took for granted a month ago, are significantly different today.
I have found comfort looking back in history. Residents in our region have always had to be tough and resilient to survive. I feel less alone when I read the accounts of students during the influenza of 1918. I feel a little more brave when I gaze at photos of women knitting socks for soldiers heading to war. How did they cope? I want to pretend I have the same courage when my family member heads to work at the hospital. I find comfort in knowing that others before us have overcome great challenges, and I can look to them for inspiration.
Now it is our turn to record history for the future. Begin a pandemic journal. Journals we write today could become primary sources for what life was like during Covid-19. It does not need to be extraordinary, it just needs to describe your experience, right now, in this significant time.
In your journal consider these topics:
How has life changed for you in the last few weeks?
What do you do during your day?
How is your home, town, and neighborhood different than it was before Covid-19?
Record significant local and global news updates.
What would you want someone in the future to know or learn from your experiences?
Are there any positive changes or silver-linings in your current experience?
Have fun with this! Your journal can be unique to you. It can be handwritten, painted, video recordings, art, multimedia, or simply a photo collection. Record your experience in whatever ways feels right to you.
The Bonner County Historical Society accepts donations of historical documents, and will accept copies or exerpts from a journal written by you. Help create a lasting piece of history for our region. I know I will be sharing a copy of mine.
If you’ve enjoyed these activities, please consider making a donation of $3, $5, or $10 so we can continue to bring you great projects for your family.
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