Of course the answer is to publish the material in some way that it will be preserved. This could be a formal book that you write about your family but most folks never get around to it. Another choice is to write a chapter on each family line. Using software such as Microsoft Word, Just start with the oldest generation and write about that individual using all the source documents you have and add endnotes so you can prove your story as you go along. Then list all his children and write about them with all you information, etc. Give this document to your children/grandchildren as a Christmas or other present. Add copies of photos, marriage records, death certificates, etc. to make it more interesting. If this is too overwhelming then at least make a gedcom file of your data and post it on several free genealogy sites for others to use. The tragedy would be for you to die, and all your "stuff" would be pitched or put in boxes in the basement by your relatives. Do something. Start now! You won't regret it. Marian