Most of us have something passed down to us from generation to generation. These heirlooms help us remember the ones who have passed on. They are a physical item that make us feel close to our ancestors. With these pieces we can hold on to loved ones that have passed on. Every generation that passes, the memories of these individuals lives pass too. These items are the last reminder of their existence besudes what is in your heart and in their journals. Recently, we came in possession of some important items of our ancestors. I want to share these items with you and share with you my appreciation and love for these materials and the people they represent.

1915 German Bible

This bible was given to my mothers great uncle Ernest H. Wiemer, who my family exclusively calls “Uncle Ernest” no matter what the relation. Sadly Uncle Ernest and his wife were not able to have children, so the bible was passed on to my grandfather, who was named after him. From there my mother recently acquired it and now we are in possession of it.

Some things that I love about this bible is that on the extra pages in the back my great great uncle wrote down some of his favorite scriptures. It is amazing to see his handwriting and though I have never meet him, it feels like I know a part of him. I also love the markings he made on the scriptures. Even though I cannot understand German it is still great to see that the scriptures where important to him.

1951 Book of Mormon

In relation to scriptures, we also have another of Uncle Ernest scripture set. This one is special because it was passed down and still used by others. My grandmother used it for a while as her own personal scriptures. So there are plenty of markings and writings in it contributed by multiple people. I love that scriptures as a heirloom give us a more personal feel then others items do because of their personal handwriting included in these great items.

Original Silverware Set

This set was used by the Wiemers that came to America. Through the wear and tear shown by this pieces of metal we can see an item that was essential for our ancestors and that they used everyday.

Bell and Jewelry Box

These have a very special value to my mother. The bell belonged to her grandmother, who we all call Mutti (in German means Mother). This was one of the things Mutti brought over with her from Germany when they immigrated over. She loved all things crystal and this was one item that was extremely special to her. When we look at it we all feel very close to her and can feel her spirit with us.

Much like the bell, which is a simple item, the jewelry box has a special meaning. This jewelry box was given to my mother from her aunt Marion. They had a special relationship when she was alive. When my mother looks at this jewelry box, in its simplicity and beauty, she thinks of her aunt. In reality she sees her aunt in this jewelry box.

Remember Our Ancestors

Through these items and many more like them, we are able to educate and introduce the rising generation to some of the individuals that formulated and helped pave the path for them. We all are affected by the decisions that those before us have made. Heirlooms give us a personal look into the lives of those before us and help us feel like we know them even though we may never have seen them in person.

Commitment: Find a old family heirloom and introduce it to your children or family members. Share what it is, who owned it and what you remember about that individual.

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How do you organize and keep your heirlooms in your home? What are some of your favorite heirlooms? Let us know in the comments below or on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

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