This family archive exists to preserve the stories, photographs, and histories of the Elcik, McClanahan, Skillin, Gamache, Lucas, Strand, DeRosa, and Adams families. It is a shared heritage project built by cousins, for cousins, across generations.
The individuals whose early outreach and collaboration helped shape this project are documented in the First Contacts index.
Why This Project Matters
Every family has stories worth preserving. Some are written in old letters. Some are hidden in census lines. Some live in memories passed from one generation to the next.
This project exists so none of those stories vanish.
Our Mission
- Preserve documents and photographs
- Connect scattered family lines
- Provide a home for research and discovery
- Leave a lasting archive for future generations
Our Family Branches
Elcik Family
Czech and Slovak heritage, New England roots, and generations shaped by faith, service, and education.
McClanahan Family
Scots-Irish and early American roots, westward movement, and family lines shaped by perseverance, labor, and place.
Skillin Family
Coastal Maine origins and early American settlement stories.
Gamache Family
French-Canadian heritage, migration, and craftsmanship.
Lucas Family
Maritime history, resilience, and deep regional footprints.
Strand Family
Scandinavian origins, frontier journeys, and family unity.
DeRosa Family
Italian family legacy, vibrant culture, and generational migration.
Adams Family
Early American history and multi-state family branches.
What You Can Find Here
- 📸 Photo galleries
- 📜 Document archives
- 🧬 DNA and lineage resources
- 🗺️ Migration maps
- 🧾 Obituaries & newspaper clippings
- 🗂️ Family timelines
- 📝 Personal stories & memories
How You Can Contribute
This site grows stronger because of your help. You can contribute photos, documents, letters, journals, newspaper clippings, oral histories, family anecdotes—anything that fills in the missing pieces.
OurAncestry + The Family History Universe
OurAncestry.me is connected to the larger Ancestry & Genealogy Universe at PenOdyssey.com. That universe includes research guides, DNA explainers, genealogy humor, and tools for building your own narrative.
Contact & Community
Have a question, correction, or contribution? We welcome your help and your stories.