For over 400 years, more than 15 million men, women and children were the victims of the tragic transatlantic slave trade, one of the darkest chapters in human history. Remembering my ancestors and all the others who survived enslavement and carved a path into freedom and created a legacy for our country. You are remembered.
Finding the Past
For genealogists’ family gatherings are a great time to take pictures, record video and ask questions of our family members about what the holidays were like for them growing up. We can never interview our relatives enough. Ask open ended questions, listen, video and take notes. Ask them to recall what the holidays, felt, looked, smelled and sounded like. What do they miss from that time? What traditions have they kept?
Confronting History
Below is a link to an article by Imani Perry. It speaks to the challenges of researching ancestry when you are descended from enslaved people. I hope after reading the essay it encourages you to begin or continue your research. The cabin of Ann Rhodes. Formerly Enslaved Woman. My 3Great Grandmother. https://time.com/6139077/imani-perry-south-to-america-excerpt/ Anna Mae's Oldest... Continue Reading →
Juneteenth 2021
Today is Juneteenth and I can't imagine what my ancestors would think of all of their descendants and the many things they have accomplished. This year President Joe Biden signed a law making Juneteenth a national holiday. For some people this is performative. For me this is a small step in helping the country to acknowledge the history and emancipation of Black people in this country.
Black History Starts with Your FAMILY
Every Day is Black History - How much do you know about your family? Maternal (mother) & Paternal (Father). Do you know which side is which? Do you know the name of all 4 of your grandparents? Big Mama & PaPaw are nice. Learn their government names. Ask them about their history if they are... Continue Reading →
#ThrowbackThursday
Family reunions may uncover genealogical gem By EBONY CHAPPEL @EbonythewriterJun 4, 2015Indianapolis Recorder Check out this interview I did a few years ago with some other genealogists. Timeless info! Click on the link below it will take you to the Indianapolis Recorder Page. http://www.indianapolisrecorder.com/news/article_3ec8b87c-0ad2-11e5-9597-53bf8da912bb.html Anna Mae's Oldest Grandbaby Nichelle~
African American Genealogy Workshop
Workshop for people interested in African American Genealogy.
Ms. Valencia Benham King Nelson 1928 – 2019
Founder of Afrigeneas has passed away.
“Roots tracing for African Americans”
As Hoosier History Live salutes Black History Month, Nelson's studio guest will be one of Indiana's top experts on African American roots-tracing. Indianapolis-based genealogist and librarian Nichelle M. Hayes.
9 Top FREE Genealogical Websites – Day 9
Find a Grave http://www.findagrave.com/ R S FREE Dig up ancestral burial information from millions of tombstone images here. Search by an individual or cemetery name. Users are encouraged to upload additional tombstone photos and submit biographical information for memorial pages. You can even create virtual cemeteries to connect loved ones buried in different places. I was able... Continue Reading →