These 45 genealogy databases comprise part of the Pennsylvania Digital Archives from the state government. We’ve only included those databases and documents which are most relevant to genealogists. All of them are free for you to use.
The Austin surname, derived from Augustine or Augustus, is traced to early Maryland planters who likely raised tobacco and owned slaves. Henry Austin, born before 1687 and deceased by 1745, was married twice—first to Elizabeth Lyles and then to Jane Harvey. His will reveals a family structure that included his son Samuel and other descendants. The family motto, “Trust in God and He will give strength,” reflects their religious values. The Austin lineage is marked by connections to early Quakers and various heraldic symbols.
African American genealogical research faces unique challenges, particularly due to limited record-keeping before the Civil War. This post outlines key resources for researching Black genealogy in Maryland, emphasizing the necessity of methodical approaches and organized personal materials. Research methods vary significantly between enslaved individuals and free African Americans before emancipation but converge post-war. The content also highlights essential resources like census records, church records, and collections of slave narratives, which provide valuable insights into the African American experience in Maryland.
Researching Louisiana slave records is essential for tracing the lineage of enslaved ancestors. The LAUSGenWeb Archives provide various resources, including documentation of slave sales from 1800 to 1861 across multiple parishes. These records encompass inventories, emancipation documents, runaway ads, and sales information related to prominent families and plantations. Access to these historical documents is vital for understanding the complexities of ancestry and the impact of slavery in Louisiana.
Wills from various Alabama counties provide insights into slave ownership and ancestry. Records from the Monroe Session and Autauga County detail transactions, such as George Anderson’s transfer of slaves to his son and the sale of slaves by William Anderson. Notably, Dr. Thomas Fearn’s notebook documents daily life on his plantation, including the birth and death dates of his slaves. Other wills from Barbour, Madison, and Pike counties reveal additional slave ownership throughout Alabama, highlighting the complexities of slaveholding in the region during the 19th century.