Content, again

A lot of focus has been on organizational issues, configuration, and such. So, one has to ask a question, motivated by McLuhan: is configuration the content? Some might argue so; it will be interesting to look at this further.

We're about ready to get back to the matters at hand. Right now, let's start a list of topics to discuss. Links will be put in later.

On method, and being motivated by Anderson's work, we can say this: genealogy cannot be any more empirical than are the social sciences. As many with brick walls might say, it's as dismal as is economics. Yet, given the prominent worldview with which NEHGS deals, honoring the ancestors ought to be of prime-most importance. Of course, more on this.   

Even if the biological is brought into the equation, there are still many things to cover that are outside of the mainstream. Now, the issue ought to be how to make these less problematic. Is that hard to do? Depends upon many things; it is worth the effort. In fact, it is just that sort of discourse where real insights into our past and those in it will (ought to) come into play. 

On Puritan Roots, deep and otherwise (again, Anderson), we will have to weigh in. Why? Not being secular, so much, but Thomas and his crew were probably the FIRST (and, we can research this) occurrence of a peaceable, effective mix (this we can argue and will) of adult humans who were without state and church (to be defined and described as necessary). For this accomplishment, which would not be seen as such by Puritans, secularists, and other limited viewpoints, Thomas and the Cape Ann group ought to have our eternal gratitude (and for their role as one source of the being of the descendants). 

The Cape Ann folks were without CHURCH and STATE despite machinations by their southern neighbors. Too, we can look at how Conant arriving with his minister in tow changed the environment. Yes, Roger the peace maker, it is said. For one thing, that shows that the Cape Ann crowd was healthy and boisterous. 

Despite the ruminations of Rev. John White (a lot more to add here), Thomas and his crew were successful. Rev. John mixed in those who were mid-way twixt the Cape Cod bunch and those of Cape Ann (Merry Mount, if you must ask) plus a few others. That he could not see the truth very much needs another look or two. 

John Endicott's arrival set the stage for the dire winters. Too many people at once swamping the resources is one thing that we will see. But, that influx could not be contained for almost a decade; no wonder the American Indians (those who were here) were frictional in an increasing manner.

...  

The upcoming Gardner's Beacon will deal with some of this. Too, The Gardner Annals will provide some genealogical looks which are intended to motivate Thomas Gardner descendants, and others, to submit material. 

More later. 

Remarks: Modified: 04/23/2023

08/26/2014 - The following is being added for future reference. Limits of Genealogical Research (Genealogy's Star blog asking this question: Are there limits to genealogical research?): Part One, Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five, Part Six, Part Seven.