SU42 Historical Contexts and Data Sources for Researching Antebellum Free Black Ancestors in Northern States

Sunday, 25 May 2025, 2:30 p.m., Carroll Ford room

We will discuss data sources for antebellum free Black populations in Northern states as well as the historical contexts leading to emancipation and documentation.

Background to be covered includes the first emancipation, population trends, property ownership, and community development. Specific data sources to be covered include census records, newspapers, and city directories. We’ll conclude by weaving together Guy’s individual findings into a family portrait that inspires other family members to pursue genealogy.

Guy Weston, MA, directs the Timbuctoo Historical Society and is a Visiting Scholar at Rutgers University. His work appears in New Jersey Studies, AAHGS Journal, and other publications.

Registrants who check in at the Louisville registration desk can access this and all the lectures they don’t catch in person on the Whova app until 15 July 2025.

Registration is now open!