The State of African American Genealogy: A New Reconstruction Era

Co-hosted by the African American Genealogy Group

Professional genealogist Adrienne Abiodun will describe potential avenues for overcoming unique research challenges typically encountered within African American family history research. By sharing complex research findings from her own family tree, Abiodun will demonstrate how DNA testing can lend itself to new genealogical discovery in this engaging program that is both story-telling and process.

This program will touch upon the following topics:

• Ways to participate in African American genealogical research
• Common research misconceptions and actual challenges
• Old and new resources available for today’s researcher
• Use of genetic genealogy in combination with traditional research
• Lineage societies & reparations

Speaker Bio:

Adrienne Abiodun is a professional genealogist located outside of Tampa, Florida. Combined, her personal and professional genealogical pursuits span two decades, sixteen years of which have been in the exploration of genetic genealogy. She is an Advanced Researcher with Legacy Tree Genealogists, and she is a member of the Florida Genealogical Society. Additional lineage organization memberships include: Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War (DUVCW), Sons and Daughters of the United States Middle Passage (SDUSMP) which she serves on the board for and Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Her niche areas include African American genealogy, Deep South U.S., lineage societies and genetic genealogy.

When Adrienne is not researching or giving presentations, she enjoys spending time with her two favorite DNA matches – her two children Naomi (11) and Oneil (8).

The African American Genealogy Group (AAGG), a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization based in Philadelphia, PA, was founded in January 1989 in response to the ever-increasing number of people who expressed a desire to research their family “roots.” Our mission is to educate, provide resources, and create a community for anyone interested in African American family history and genealogical research. We serve those who are interested in researching their family history locally, regionally, and nationally.

The Historical Society of Pennsylvania, founded in 1824, is one of the nation’s largest archives of historical documents. We are proud to serve as Philadelphia’s Library of American History, with over 21 million manuscripts, books, and graphic images encompassing centuries of US history. Through educator workshops, research opportunities, public programs, and lectures throughout the year, we strive to make history relevant and exhilarating to all. For more information, visit hsp.org.