Q & A with Author Jerry Corbin

Can you tell us about yourself as an author?
I am the author of The Family Gold, a historical mystery inspired by four generations of real-life family history and genealogical research. I am also the writer, producer, and host of Building Memories, a radio program focused on preserving local and national heritage.

What inspired you to write The Family Gold?
I was inspired to write The Family Gold because I wanted to honor my family and preserve the wonderful stories that had been passed down to me. As I listened to the tales told by my mother, I realized they weren’t just entertaining memories-they were pieces of living history. These stories connected my family to one of America’s greatest mysteries, the lost Confederate gold, and they carried the weight of sacrifice, survival, and legacy. Writing this book was my way of weaving those family accounts into a larger historical narrative so that the voices of the past could be remembered and carried forward. More than anything, I wanted to make sure those stories and the people who lived them would never be forgotten.

What experience do you want your readers to have?
Readers will walk away from The Family Gold feeling as if they’ve been invited into a family’s living room listening to stories whispered across generations. They’ll experience the suspense of a mystery, the richness of historical detail, and the intimacy of family secrets carried through time. When the last page is turned, they’ll feel both the satisfaction of a treasure hunt resolved and the emotional weight of a legacy that still matters today. More than just a novel, it’s an experience of discovering how history lives within families and how stories preserve the past.

How long did it take to complete The Family Gold?
The project took approximately five years, demanding perseverance, patience, and the ability to sustain creative energy over a long period without rushing or losing focus.
I had to dig deep into historical records, genealogical data, and local archives to ensure accuracy in portraying four generations of a family tied to the lost Confederate gold. Countless hours were spent in research departments, libraries, and university archives. I also traveled throughout the South to experience the locations first-hand. These travels were time-consuming and physically demanding, but essential for capturing the authentic setting and atmosphere. In addition to juggling research and travel, I committed myself to writing a specific word count each week, requiring a high level of discipline, focus, and self-motivation.