jiapu

jiapu (Chinese Genealogical Record)

Jia Pu, records of genealogy (or family tree books), also called Zu Pu, are significant in the history of the Chinese people. Jia Pu are records of a clan’s history and lineage that also express the worship of ancestors. Jia Pu contain entries on the migration of people and social evolution The original Jia Pu were found inscribed on turtle shells from the Shang Dynasty (1523-1028 BC). The practice of producing such works became popular during the Ming and Qing dynasties. [1]

Traditionally, access to genealogies was restricted to clansmen and few copies were produced. Moreover, during political and administrative changes under the People's Republic of China, some ancestral halls and homes were demolished or converted into communal housing. Family records and genealogies were lost. Where they have survived, jia pu may not be readily available to the general public. Thus, it may be difficult to locate or obtain access to a jia pu relating to your family. If you do locate a jia pu associated with your family surname, it is important to bear in mind that the record may not actually refer to your family. People from families (zu) with the same surname are not necessarily directly related to each other. [2]

For my (LAU) family, I am not sure if we maintained a family tree book, but I know we have a banci lian (班次聯), generation name poem[3] (see below). This was used to provide the middle name which differentiates the generations. This was handed down to me by my grandfather (Lau Peng Kim).

References:

[1] Record of generations by Li Jian [Shanghai Star. 2005-02-24]

[2] Jia Pu - An Ancient Chinese Tradition [Chinese-Canadian Genealogy]

[3] Generation Name [wikipedia]