Black Genealogy – Access Genealogy

African American Genealogy records are much more difficult to find due to the scant nature of record keeping for blacks prior to the Civil War. We have modeled this section much like we have for Native Americans, whose research can also be hampered by the available records. The links below provide an accurate reflection of what African American genealogy is available online.

Conducting successful African American genealogical research can be a challenging adventure. In recent years, the challenge has been lessened and the adventure heightened by the growing body of publications relating to this ethnic group. Special-interest groups and genealogical societies nationwide are publishing key guides, new bibliographies, and important how-to books. Before delving into published sources, however, it is always important to pause long enough to organize one’s own personal papers and review standard research methodology.

Searching for African American families involves two distinct research approaches. These approaches correspond to the distinct change in the legal status of African Americans in the United States before and after the Civil War. Genealogical techniques used to track slave families before the war are necessarily quite different than those used for white or free African Americans; however, research conducted on African Americans after the war usually involves the same types of records as those used for whites.

Copy of 1670 painting from Virginia showing African slaves working on a tobacco plantation.

African American Genealogy Records by State

Please note some states are omitted due to lack of online information

African American Cemetery Records by State

Following states have a large online collection of African American Cemeteries

African American Census Records by State

Following states have a large online collection of African American Census Records

Slave Owners by State

Following states have a large online listing for Slave owners

Online African American Books

Slave Narrative of Lunsford Lane
Slave Narrative of Lunsford Lane – Embracing an account of his early life, the redemption by purchase of himself and family from slavery, and his banishment from the place of his birth for the crime of wearing a colored skin.
The Fugitive Blacksmith
The Fugitive Blacksmith: Events in the history of James W. C. Pennington, Pastor of a Presbyterian Church, New York, formerly a slave in the State of Maryland, United States. The principal portion of the ‘Tract,’ as Mr. Pennington modestly styles his book, consists of an autobiography of his early life as a slave, and of his escape from bondage, and final settlement in New York as a Presbyterian Minister. His adventures and hair breadth escapes invest the narrative with startling interest, and excite the deepest sympathies of the reader.
History of Liberia
This paper claims to be scarcely more than a brief sketch. It is an abridgment of a History of Liberia in much greater detail, presented as a dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at the Johns Hopkins University.
History of Black Soldiers in the Spanish American War
History of Black Soldiers in the Spanish American War: The troops of the 9th and 10th Cavalry, and the 24th and 25th Infantry served with distinction on the battlefields of Las Guasimas, El Caney, and San Juan Hill. In four months of fighting the Spanish under these adverse conditions, the Buffalo Soldiers were described as “most gallant and soldierly.” This is their story
Great Riots of New York 1712-1873
A History of all the Great Riots of New York from 1712 to 1873. Includes histories of the Black Riots, Draft Riots, Flour Riot, Stamp-Act Riot, Abolition Riots, Dead Rabbits’ Riot, Astor Place Riots, Spring Election Riots, Doctors’ Riot, and the Orange Riots.
A Century of Black Migration
A century of Black migration (or the Great Migration) details how Blacks in the United States have struggled under adverse circumstances to flee from the bondage of the South in quest of lands offering Freedom and opportunity.
The Fugitive Slave Law
The Fugitive Slave Law was enacted by Congress in September, 1850. It declared that all runaway slaves were, upon capture, to be returned to their masters. In effect, encouraging local officials to “kidnap” suspected slaves, detain them, and transport them back to Southern States and their “owners”. This collection provides a synopsis of the act itself, and specific, named examples of it’s effect on Blacks living in the North.

Newest Black Genealogy

Our newest posts on black genealogy

History of Carbondale, Illinois, 1852-1905

Carbondale, Illinois, spans about 6,000 acres, primarily in the southwest quarter of Carbondale Township, established following congressional guidelines. Early settlers settled near Little Crab Orchard and Piles Fork creeks. The city’s growth is intertwined with the contributions of its founders, highlighted through 330 biographical sketches in the book, which offer details into their lives during challenging times. Carbondale’s history reflects the influence of individual leadership on municipal progress, celebrated here in the context of the nation’s bicentennial.
History of Natrona County, Wyoming

For individuals researching ancestors who lived in Natrona County between 1888 and 1922, this book offers valuable context and potential leads. It includes names of county officials, war veterans, pioneers, and individuals involved in notable local events, as well as detailed accounts of institutions such as schools, churches, newspapers, and civic organizations. Descriptions of towns, industries, and public records provide insight into the communities where ancestors may have lived or worked. While not a genealogical record in and of itself, the book’s extensive local detail can help place family histories within the broader social and economic framework of the time.…
1832 Cherokee Muster Roll

This Muster Roll details Cherokee Indians who migrated west of the Mississippi River under B. F. Curry’s supervision. It includes payments made by Capt. Vashon, outlining the number of individuals and slaves receiving subsistence. Each Indian received $32.50, with payments occurring in April or May 1832. The document lists heads of families and their respective counts of males, females, and slaves, totaling 231 men, 193 women, and 157 slaves, with a cumulative total of 561 individuals.
Cherokee Muster Rolls, 1835 – 1838

The Cherokee Muster Rolls of 1835-1838 document the forced relocation of the Cherokee people during the Trail of Tears. These rolls list families who were moved west, including those who left voluntarily, were rounded up by military forces, or migrated under Cherokee leadership. They offer crucial genealogical information for descendants of Cherokee individuals from the southeastern U.S., particularly those connected to the Cherokee Nation and the Eastern Band. These records, like the 1835 Henderson Roll and various muster rolls, are important for researchers tracking Cherokee ancestry during this difficult chapter in American history.
Slave Narrative of Walter Calloway

Walter Calloway, an 89-year-old former slave, reflects on his life during an interview in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1937. Born in Richmond, Virginia, in 1848, he recounts being sold to a plantation owner in Montgomery, where he faced hard work but relatively fair treatment. He describes witnessing the Civil War’s impact and the destruction caused by Union raiders. Although emancipation brought freedom, he notes that many former slaves, including himself, continued to work just as hard under difficult circumstances. Calloway’s narrative captures the resilience and hardships of ex-slaves.
Slave Narrative of Charity Anderson

Charity Anderson, a 101-year-old former slave, recounts her life in Monroe County, Alabama, during the antebellum period. Born at Belles Landing, she describes her experiences under the care of Mr. Leslie Johnson, her white owner, whom she remembers as kind. Despite her frail health, Aunt Charity shares fond memories of her youth and duties in the Johnson household. She contrasts her past with the present, lamenting the loss of respect and manners in today’s society while expressing gratitude for her well-being and community support.
Black Roots in Southeastern Connecticut, 1650 – 1900

*Black Roots in Southeastern Connecticut, 1650-1900* by Barbara W. Brown and James M. Rose is a significant contribution to the field of African American genealogical research. Focusing on the southeastern region of Connecticut, this volume compiles over eight years of research into the genealogies of Black individuals and families in the area. Using a variety of sources such as census records, church records, vital statistics, and war documents, the authors provide a comprehensive guide to tracing Black ancestry in a region that was once a significant center of slaveholding in New England. Their meticulous approach offers a framework that can…
Slave Narrative of Lewis Mundy of Hannibal, Missouri

Lewis Mundy, born into slavery in Lewis County, Missouri, recounts his life experiences on the farm of John Wright. He describes his upbringing, working in the fields, and the treatment he received from his master and mother. After emancipation, Mundy found work in various farms and eventually in the Burlington Shops in Hannibal. He has consistently participated in voting and remains active in the Baptist Church. Reflecting on the changes over time, he observes the opportunities available to the younger generation.
Slave Narrative of Margaret Nickens of Hannibal, Missouri

Margaret Nickens, born into slavery on Pleasant McCann’s farm in Monroe County, Missouri, recounts her life experiences. She served as a nurse for the Dawson family and was eventually freed by Mr. Dawson, who emphasized her newfound freedom. After reuniting with her parents, she observed economic challenges and the kindness of some white folks towards slaves. Now in her eighties, she has worked for prominent families in Hannibal for over sixty years and emphasizes the importance of saving money, reflecting on her life and her daughter’s teaching career.
Slave Narrative of Henry Dant of Hannibal, Missouri

Henry Dant, approximately 105 years old, recalls his life as a slave on Judge Daniel Kendrick’s farm in Ralls County. He describes a mixed experience of fair treatment yet strenuous work, including farming and caring for livestock. Dant married and had three children before their emancipation, receiving minimal assistance after freedom. He worked various jobs, played music for local events, and later owned his own farm. Currently, he resides with his daughter in Hannibal and receives a modest pension.
Slave Narrative of Clay Smith of Hannibal, Missouri

Clay (Carrie) Smith, born into slavery near Hannibal, Missouri, recounts her childhood under Joe and Sarah Ann Maupin’s ownership. The daughter of Luckett, she remembers her father fleeing during the Civil War and her aunt’s sale. After emancipation, her mother worked to buy a home, supported by the Maupins. Clay reflects on her tough upbringing, her work in local hotels, and the changes in community life. Now elderly, she lives with her brother, navigating the challenges of aging and financial insecurity.
Slave Narrative of William Black of Hannibal, Missouri

William Black, an eighty-five-year-old ex-slave from Hannibal, Missouri, shares his life experiences from slavery to freedom. Bonded out at eight, he recalls a relatively benign childhood with Mr. Sam Briggs, where he took care of Briggs’ children. Despite a lack of formal education, he expresses a desire to learn to read and write. Black reflects on the hardships of slavery, the struggle for freedom, and the changes he perceives in the younger generation. Now living alone, he actively participates in religious activities and cultivates a small garden.
1860 Census West of Arkansas – Creek Nation

The 1860 census for the Creek Nation, located west of Arkansas, reveals a diverse array of free inhabitants, including Native Americans from Creek and Seminole tribes. This listing indicates that many individuals either renounced their tribal affiliations or were never granted citizenship. Several entries mark those who married Native individuals but were still denied citizenship, suggesting a complex social structure within the community. The presence of individuals identified by racial categories reflects the intricate interplay of identities during this period.
Baltimore Maryland City Directories 1799-1946

This page lists 109 free digitized directories found online for the city of Baltimore Maryland covering the years of 1799-1946 (incomplete). Directories can provide such information on an individual such as their employment and address during the year issued. They may also indicate whether they were renting or residing with somebody else at the time.
Cleveland County North Carolina Colored Apprentices

The document provides a list of Colored Apprentices indentured in Cleveland County, North Carolina, since May 1866. These underage children, either orphans or without parental support, were apprenticed by Freedmen’s Bureau officials to ensure their care and upbringing. The certification by S. Williams, County Clerk, confirms the accuracy of the names listed, sourced from National Archives Microfilm Publication M843 Roll 35, covering indentures from September 1865 to August 1867.
Cindy Henderson’s DNA Results

Cindy Henderson’s ancestry reflects a diverse heritage. Her mother has Irish/German roots and Italian lineage from Abruzzo, Italy, while her father’s maternal line includes a Black American background from New Jersey. His paternal side connects to both Black and American Indian ancestry from North Carolina. Particularly noted is her 2nd great grandfather’s potential ties to the Eastern Band of Cherokee. DNA analysis shows a mix of African, European, and possibly East Asian ancestry, though Native American connections remain uncertain due to limited documentation.
Autauga County Alabama Records at ADAH

This database contains records from local, county and municipal offices, such as the probate office, tax assessor, and orphan’s court. Most of the original records remain in the originating office. The following results reflect the records available at the Alabama Department of Archives and History Center (ADAH) specifically for Autauga County. In order to view any of the following Autauga County Alabama records the researcher would need to visit the ADAH in person, or hire a researcher to perform the task for them, or visit the specific originating office for the record.
Register Of Marriages In The Parish Of Michilimackinac

The marriage records from the Michilimackinac register, translated by Edward O. Brown in 1889, reflect the area’s history through different governance—from French to British to American control—highlighting the Catholic Church’s influence during the French period. Although there were 17 marriages documented between 1725 and 1741, many early records are lost or incomplete. Notably, frontier families interacted and married Native Americans, while gaps in records and inconsistent officiation practices reveal complexities in marriage documentation during this time.
Mackinac Marriage Records 1790-1799

Between 1792 and 1799, several marriage consents were recorded at Michilimakinac, highlighting the diverse community of that period. Notable figures included Jean Baptiste La Borde, Alexis Laframboise, and various local residents and officials like Adhemar St. Martin and Father Gabriel Richard. Marriages involved individuals of European and Indigenous descent, with witnesses often comprising local dignitaries and families. These records illustrate the social fabric of Mackinac during a transformative era, as both French and British influences shaped the region’s culture and community dynamics.
Mackinac Marriage Records 1750-1759

Between 1750 and 1759, numerous marriages were officiated by Jesuit missionaries at Michilimakina, reflecting the diverse community of soldiers and Indigenous peoples. Notable unions included Poncelet Batillo de Clermont and Francois Cardinal, along with others like Charles dit Chanteloups and Agnes. Many marriages involved widows and mixed heritage couples, highlighting the intertwining of European and Indigenous cultures. The records provide valuable insights into social structures and familial ties during this period, documenting both traditional practices and adaptations in a colonial context.