Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. June 19, 1865, refers to the day when enslaved African Americans learned of their emancipation. Texas was the last U.S. state to recognize the proclamation, so June 19th or “Juneteenth” became the official day.

Researching Enslaved Ancestors with The Family History Guide

If you have enslaved ancestors in your family tree, or you are helping someone who does, you can find a wealth of helpful resources in The Family History Guide. Let’s take a look at what you’ll find there …

Goal 4: Slavery Resources

• Choice A: Learn about the basic records that document slaves. This includes finding slaves and slave owners, the 1860 and 1850 Slave Schedules of the census, case studies, and a variety of databases for records.
• Choice B: Learn about the Freedmen’s Bank and Freedmen’s Bureau. Get an introduction to these organizations that were set up to provide relief and help formerly enslaved people become self-sufficient. These records are valuable research resources.
• Choice C: Learn about the National Underground Railroad and how the resources can help you in tracing your Civil War ancestry.

Goal 5: Break through Barriers

• Choice B: Trace your slave ancestors before the Civil War. This includes tips for breaking through research “brick walls” in the pre-Civil War era, including finding plantation records.

Best wishes for success with your African American research. Be sure to check out the additional Goals in The Family History Guide, and enjoy the Juneteenth holiday!