One of the cool things about #genchat is being able to discuss the genealogy of different ethnic origins. You may not have that ethnicity yourself, but you may learn of new resources and methodologies that you can apply to your own research. Personally, I like to approach it thinking, “if I were ethnicity, where would I look?”
This past February 2, we discussed African-American genealogy led by Renate Yarborough Sanders. Before I list all the wonderful resources that were shared, I just want to say that this was one of the most moving #genchats we’ve ever had. Not only did we learn of the unique experiences and challenges of African-American ancestors, but we explored the difficult topic of having a slave-owning ancestor. All this was done in a spirit of honesty and empathy on all sides. I’m a little choked up as I write: if only the rest of our divided society could come together like this, there would be so much healing.
Courtesy Library of Congress.
So the following resources mentioned during and after #genchat are listed here, not only to aid African-Americans with their research, but also to educate everyone about the research challenges and what you may be able to do if you have a slave-holding ancestor.
Resources:
Midwestern African American Genealogy Institute
Hidden Cemeteries of Essex County
Radiant Roots, Boricua Branches list of African-American Genealogy blogs
Kentucky Historical Society – US Colored Troop Muster for KY 7th-9th districts
Kentucky Historical Society – letters mentioning slave names
Mississippi Dept of Archives & History – Sovereignty Commission Online
Library of Congress – African American History Month site
Articles/Blogposts/Podcasts:
Ben Franklin’s World (podcast) – episode 118 – The business of slavery in Rhode Island
New York Post – College Compiles Index of Slaves and Their Owners
Roots Revealed – Genealogy Mishap Case
Southern Poverty Law Center – quiz – How Much Do You Know About American Slavery?
Life in the Past Lane – In the Shadow of Charlottesville
The Atlantic – The Freedman’s Story
Into the Light – Restore My Name
Family Tree Magazine – How to Trace African-American History Through Oral History
Slave-Holding Ancestors:
Reclaiming Kin – Suggestions for White Descendants of Slaveholders
As always, if I’ve missed any resources that were mentioned or if you have something new to add, please reply in the comments!
Beautiful Water Genealogy 