In my previous post discussing research methods for my W-I-P, A Perfect Night for Murder, I explained that in an effort to locate people who might still be alive in the half-century old case, I compiled a list of those involved and checked it against the SSDI. The remaining names became my wish list of people to locate (although I understood that the absence of a name in the SSDI didn’t necessarily mean a person was still alive), and with any luck -- interview.
There are several directory assistance sites available, but I used Searchbug.com, where I obtained listed phone numbers. I ran reverse address searches, too. I was surprised to learn that some residents remained in the same location -- over fifty years later. However, in such a small village with a tightly-knit community, this is not unusual.
The reverse address search also helped me determine where many businesses once stood.
I conducted interviews on the phone; in person; via email and snail mail. Many of the people I interviewed led me to others with information -- always a bonus.
I was already a dues-paying member of Classmates.com when I began this journey. I find the message boards very helpful; I have posted requests for assistance and the members have responded beautifully, sharing their memories and information. Also, the site became a resource for finding relatives of those connected to the case.
Posts
7 comments:
These are great tips to know, Kathy. We get the shortcuts after you blaze the trail- thanks!
Great information, Kathy. Thanks for passing it on!
Hi Kathy,
Thakns for the info. Even fiction writers sometimes need to fact check and these are great links.
Terrie
Hi Clare, Elaine, and Terrie,
Thanks for your lovely comments. I'm glad to share the info...it's what life's about, isn't? Sharing information! It's what we accomplish each day on this blog; and we learn something new every day, as they say.
A common theme in my book is the consequences when people (and law enforcement, especially) fail to share information; and how scars were left behind as a result of secrets.
Since I conducted this research "off duty" and continued as I retired, I had to resort to the methods that everyday folk would have to use to find their way.
EXACTLY CORRECT>>>>>"Since I conducted this research "off duty" and continued as I retired, I had to resort to the methods that everyday folk would have to use to find their way." That quote from Kathleen sets the tone and I echo it as a retired WSP Sergeant. Here are some of the best things I have found.
Here is one of the best locators.
http://stevemorse.org/birthday/privateeye.html.
You have to play around within its parameters and then its a good idea to cross reference it with other free people finders like zabasearch.com, whitepages.com and 411.com.
Now...This is the coolest site I have seen for a host of things other than and including info sites for people searching>>>> http://www.allmyfaves.com/
Also, FACEBOOK.com is remarkable as so many are interconnected to it.
Nice talking to you on your site, Kathy.
Hi Carey,
Thanks for passing along this information; I will add it to my arsenal and check them out! So glad that you stopped by! I look forward to corresponding with you, Sarge!
thanks for this sharing, Kathleen! very helpful tips for locating people! These sites really are a necessary and useful resource for finding relatives, friends and many other acquaintances. Once again, thanks for the interesting information!
Post a Comment