A History of the Yoakum, Yocom, Yocum Families: And Others However the Name is Spelled and to Their Spouses who are Equally Responsible for Perpetuation of the Family

Published in 1963, this genealogical volume was compiled by Harry Clyde Smith as an effort to document the multifaceted lineage of the Yoakum, Yocom, and Yocum families. During this mid-century period, there was a notable surge in genealogical research among amateur historians and family enthusiasts across the United States, often driven by a desire to preserve ancestral records for future generations. Smith’s work is characterized by its inclusive approach, intentionally capturing the histories of diverse branches of the family tree regardless of variations in spelling.

The volume serves as a representative example of self-published or limited-run genealogical texts from the era, which prioritized comprehensive data collection over stylistic flourish. The design reflects the utilitarian standards of mid-twentieth-century local histories, intended primarily for personal archives, libraries, and family associations. While not produced for mass-market consumption, it remains a recognized reference point for researchers tracing these specific surnames, reflecting the broader archival culture of the time that sought to anchor family identities in recorded history.