The Bi-Monthly Newsletter of the Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society, Inc. September ...

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AAHGS News
The Bi-Monthly Newsletter of the Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society, Inc. September/October 2015
ISSN#1947-475X
RESEARCH POINTERS The theme for the issue is “Science, Technology, Engineering and
Mathematics (STEM), Celebrating Black History Month.”
Using Death Certificate Informants for Research
Rev. Roland Barksdale-Hall, AAHGS Director of Publications
By Brenda Kinsler

I have experienced great success in obtaining invaluable THE BRILLIANCE OF AFRICAN AMERICAN INVENTORS
information from death certificate informants. To date, I have
By Patricia Carter Sluby
mailed 18 letters of inquiry and received 16 responses. In my

successes with making contact, I found a first cousin I never
“I am immensely pleased to be here and to witness the
knew existed. I have been able to associate nicknames to given
transition of my collection of inventions of African
names of family members (some nicknames were recorded in
Americans at this beautiful facility.”
US Census records as given names). I identified multiple
—Dr. Pat Sluby, Co-curator, June 26, 2015.
spouses of family members and identified all members of a

specific family branch.
A Summary on African American inventors, adapted from
When contacting the informant, I send a letter of
her speech delivered at the Prince George’s African
introduction that includes some information regarding the
American Museum and Cultural Center in North Brentwood,
possible relationship between the decedent and me. I ensured to
Maryland in July 2015, follows:
include a stamped and pre-addressed envelope in case someone

would rather write than call me. I have noted that it is best to
Introduction
use the addresses of informants after 1960. Family members
When I was a novice patent examiner at the U.S.
tend to move less frequently and usually other family members
Patent and Trademark Office, I discovered that my
have since moved into the decedents’ home. If there is a partial
neighbor’s brother held several United States patents in
address, I utilize search engines to obtain a complete address.
chemistry, my career field. Excited at finding this African
I have found success with my letter being forwarded to
American inventor, I felt compelled to quiz him on the
the informant or they respond themselves. In my (cont. on p. 7)
circumstances involved in receiving his patents. (cont. on p. 5)
FAMILY PROSPECTS BREAKING NEWS
My Experience with DNA Worth Checking Out…………………………………..……4,9,20
By Carole A. Hyman 2016 Black History Month Events…………...……..……….13,18
The Brilliance of African American Inventors………....1,5,7-8,20
My first experience with DNA was with African Ancestry. The AAHGS 37th Annual Conference Call for Papers………….14-17
results said that my paternal grandmother’s people were
Egyptian and my paternal grandfather’s people were Ibo from REGULAR FEATURES
Nigeria. All of that was very President’s Page………………………………….…………........3
Featured Library…………………………………………..2.11-12
surprising, because we were told my
Editor’s Page…………………………………….……………….4
grandmother’s people were
Chapter News……………………………….….……2,7,13,15,18
indentured servants from Ireland. My
Chapter Directory………………………………..……….……...6
grandmother’s name was Katie
Book Notes………………………………….………………..….8
Katie Candles & Syvalia Hyman Candles Hyman. My grandfather was
Resources for Research in Georgia………………………………9
Syvalia Hyman. I knew nothing about my grandfather’s people Research Pointers……………………………………….……..1,7
other than his father, Arden, and his grandfather, Zion, were Family Prospects………………………………………………,1,4
slaves. It was serendipitous that the only time I’ve (cont. on p. 4) Query………………………………………….………………..20
ATTEND THE 2016 AAHGS ANNUAL CONFERENCE
AAHGS will hold its 37th National Conference, October 13-16, 2016, at the Westin Atlanta Airport in Atlanta, Georgia. The
Conference theme is “The Ancestors on My Mind: Discovering Our Ancestors, Our History, Ourselves, TOGETHER”
For more information, see the Call for Papers inside this issue.
AAHGS News Check out the most recent news at the News blog: www.aahgsnews.wordpress.com! September/October 2015
AFRO-AMERICAN HISTORICAL AND GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY, INC.
1977-2015
CELEBRATING OVER THIRTY-FIVE YEARS
FEATURED LIBRARY
WORTH NOTING

Photographer and visual documentarian, Marvin
Genealogy Research,
Elliott Ellis, author and genealogist Melvin Collier,
Can It Be Done at the DAR Library?
and historian and preservationist Sonia Jacobs Dow
By Shelley Murphy
will discuss and share successful techniques and

strategies to trace your genealogy and family history
in a session, titled “In Search of Our Roots: Who is DAR? It is the National Society of the
Marvin Ellis Genealogy and the African Diaspora,” at the Miami Daughter's of the American Revolution, known as DAR.
Book Fair on Saturday, November 21, 2015. Three decades ago, It is a lineage society and membership is open to any
Ellis began researching his African American and Antillean Creole female 18 years and older regardless of race, religion or
genealogy. As a result of his interest in genealogy, he developed
ethic background. Women wanted to be included in
and chaired the first Miami Book Fair International panel
expressing their patriotic feelings, since they were not
discussion focused primarily on genealogy and family history of
allowed to join any men's group. Four ladies established
descendants of Africans in the Western Hemisphere.
DAR 11 October 1890. They raised $50k to purchased a

piece of basically swamp land to build a fabulous
Making Matches: Success Stories building which is now known as DAR headquarters and
On Linking Documentary and DNA Evidence Constitution Hall, etc., totaling one square block in
By Alice Freeman Harris Washington, DC. DAR still has the same objectives:

On November 14, 2015, the Central Maryland "Historical-to perpetuate the memory and spirit
Chapter of AAHGS presented a panel of four genealogists of the men and women who achieved American
who have succeeded in finding their ancestors by linking Independence; Educational- to carry out the injunction of
documentary and DNA evidence: Jonnie Brown, Melvin Washington in his farewell address to the American
Collier, Alice Freeman Harris, and James Wray. Each panel people, to promote, as an object of primary import,
member advised that they are not DNA experts. However, institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge, thus
the panel moderator, Shannon Christmas, specializes in developing an enlightened public opinion..., and Patriotic
genetic genealogy. -to cherish, maintain, and extend the institutions of
The program was the first of its kind, showcasing America freedom , to foster true patriotism and love of
how to apply genetic genealogy to advance African- country, and to aid in securing for mankind all the
American genealogical research. Each panel (cont. on p. 11) blessings of liberty". (http://www.dar.org/national-
society/about-dar/dar-history)

There was a time in the DAR history that no
people of color were allowed to join. I am sure you have
heard of the Marion Anderson scandal and her not being
allowed to perform at Constitution Hall. That was
probably the biggest scandal of our time. Well times
have changed a bit and women of color, regardless if
their Patriot is white or of color they are able and
beginning to join DAR.

This was my second visit to the DAR library and
I took and enjoyed the guided tour of the Period rooms. I
learned some interesting facts from DAR.org or my visit.
Most of my genealogy buddies don't do research at the
DAR library and I wondered why. I believe they assume
DNA Panel (L-R) Melvin Collier, Alice Freeman Harris, if they do not have colonial ancestors nothing is there
Jonnie Brown, Shannon Christmas, Cynthia Baber-Strunk, for them. Or they don't think the DAR has (cont. on p. 11)
James Wray
2
AAHGS News Check out the most recent news at the News blog: www.aahgsnews.wordpress.com! September/October 2015

FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK...
The Afro-American Historical and
Greetings members,
Genealogical Society, Inc., (AAHGS), is

a non-profit membership organization
committed to the preservation of the The national conference is in a few weeks and we are at record breaking numbers! This
history, genealogy and culture of the conference has generated a lot of excitement and based on the registrations we have a
African-ancestored populations of the large number of first time conference attendees. In addition our list of new members is
local, national and international getting longer, I am excited!
community.

As we prepare to meet in Richmond the 2016 National Conference planning committee is
AAHGS stresses the importance of our
making preparations to welcome you to Atlanta Georgia. The 2016 Conference will be
history and genealogy by encouraging
held at the The Westin Atlanta Airport Hotel, 4736 Best Road, Atlanta GA. You can now
active participation in recording
make reservations by calling 888-627-7211 or by calling the hotel directly at 404-762-
research and personal family histories.
7676. Group code is AAHGS. The conference dates are October 13-16, 2016.

President, Tamela Tenpenny-Lewis
Vice President-Genealogy, Sherri Camp Elections Reminder: In accordance with the Bylaws of the Afro-American Historical
Vice President-History, Gene Stephenson, II and Genealogical Society, Incorporated, the Nomination and Elections Committee
Correspondence Secretary, Toni Byrd Vann requests your nominations for the listed positions: Two year term open positions are
Treasurer Carolyn Corpening, Rowe
President, VP Genealogy, Corresponding Secretary and Treasurer. One year term open
Financial Secretary, (vacant)
Recording Secretary Victoria Betsill positions are Financial Secretary and Recording Secretary. Nominations will be
Past President, Charles Howard accepted September 24th -October 30th. Each elected office is for a period of two (2)
Membership Chair, Tamika Strong years commencing in January 2016 through December 2017 with the exception of
Chapter Committee, Nathania Branch Miles
Financial Secretary and Recording Secretary for a period of one (1) year commencing in
Chapter Committee, Gene R. Stephenson, II
Awards Committee, Jane Taylor Thomas January 2016 through December 2016. In nominating the candidate(s) of your choice
Awards Committee, Alice F. Harris remember that only persons who have been members for at least one year are eligible to
FGS Delegate Shelley Murphy hold national office; and nominees for president shall have served at least one term in
President Emeritus Barbara Walker
another position on the Board of Directors prior to nomination for president. Finally, all
Editor, AAHGS Journal, Rev. Roland
Barksdale-Hall nominees must be computer/Internet literate and have access to both. Nominate any
Communications Specialist, (vacant) AAHGS member in good financial standing with the national organization. The election
Parliamentarian, Nelvia Brady-Hampton. will open on December 5th and close on December 20th.
Editor, AAHGS News, Rev. Roland Barksdale

-Hall
Asst. Editor, AAHGS News, Marsha Bembry PLEASE REFER TO WWW.AAHGS.ORG for additional details and, so that we can
Asst. Editor, AAHGS News, Elyse Hill better inform you, please send your email address to [email protected]. Your
Book Notes Editor, Debra Newman Ham nomination should/can be mailed to:

Submissions are welcomed. Articles will
AFRO AMERICAN HISTORICAL & GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
be printed at the editor’s discretion and may
be edited without advance notice to the C/O ELECTION COMMITTEE
author. Articles and other submissions 9160 HIGHWAY 64, SUITE 12,
must be received on or before the fifth day PMB 255
of each odd-numbered month. Articles
LAKELAND, TN 38002 or submitted online at [email protected] .
and queries may be mailed to: AAHGS

News, c/o Roland Barksdale-Hall, 939
Baldwin Ave., Suite 1, Sharon, PA 16146, Statement of Nomination - Please limit narrative to 100 words or less. Please address
email: <[email protected]> . specific qualifications for the office and include information about candidate’s recent
projects/activities related to AAHGS and AAHGS’ goals; projects/activities/experience
Permission to reproduce this issue or related to the office sought; and other information that demonstrates the strengths of the
portions thereof must be secured in writing
candidate for the office.
from the publisher.
Please consider running for office as all positions are ready to be filled (with the exception

Copyright © 2015 by the Afro-American of VP of History) and continue the success and growth of AAHGS.
Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc.
All rights reserved. Until next time..........................Tamela

Submitted November 1, 2015

3
Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc. www.aahgs.org Founded 1977 September/October 2015
EDITOR’S PAGE
WORTH CHECKING OUT LETTER TO THE EDITOR
My cousin Richard E. Jackson of Eufaula,
Alabama, sent me an interesting book,
In April of this year, I submitted an article to the
Bridging Deep South Rivers: The Life and
AAHGS Newsletter about Jesse “Nip” Winters
Legend of Horace King, along with
of the Negro Baseball Leagues. Nip struck out
information about my grandfather Jessie Hall.
Babe Ruth, he was a great pitcher, known for his
Horace was an talented enslaved person and
curve balls. Nip was born 1899 died in 1971 in
later a freed person of color, who built bridges
in both Alabama and Georgia. (cont. on p. 9) Hockessin, Delaware. He played on numerous
baseball teams from 1919 to 1933. The State of
(cont. from p. 1 MY EXPERIENCE WITH DNA) been out of the Nip Winters Delaware will dedicate a historical marker in
country was to Egypt and I’ve always been African- Hockessin to this individual. The unveiling is
centered. scheduled for December 7th.
My second experience was with a fellow I thank my DEAAHGS president Jim Jones for his
genealogist, who has a Hyman relative. I met Allen McClain encouragement in the submission of the article to AAHGS
once by accident at a National Genealogical Society (NGS) national newsletter and the Delaware Public Archives for the
conference in Philadelphia. He wanted me to be tested to see historical marker.
if we had shared DNA. The results initially indicated that
we were NOT related. However, the test results later stated Sincerely yours,
that we DID have some connection through GEDMatch. Darleen Amobi
Allen later sent me a couple of names he saw that Delaware Afro-American Historical and
were linked to me on GEDMatch. One of them, Yolanda Genealogical Society (DEAAHGS)
Page, came to meet me from Richmond at the Mormon __________________________
Temple in Kensington, Maryland. She also shared my Darleen Amobi submitted October 22, 2015.
Harappa World model DNA, but we have yet to figure out
the relationship.
Allen also sent me the names of a couple of other Allen McClain also connected me with another relative
people who might be relatives. Ralph Payne (shown to the whose grandmother and my grandmother were sisters. She is
right), from South Carolina, is one of Thelma Fleming, 80 years old, in
those relatives. In talking to him, we Florida and is doing her genealogy
discovered that his great-grandfather, about my mother’s side of the family.
William Larkin Sherman Payne and my A photo of the two sisters appears to
great-grandmother Martha Payne Owens the right- Melissa and Mary Owens. I
were siblings from North Carolina. Ralph Payne do expect to meet Ralph and Thelma
Melissa and Mary Owens
My mother, Pearle Thomas Hyman is the at some point.
W
ollo daughter of Mary Ann Owens Thomas, who My connection with 23andME revealed that I’m 57%
am is the daughter of Martha Payne Owens. My European. The Harappa World model indicated 29.21% as NE
L
ark new cousin found out that he had “colored” European, 17.31% Mediterranean (Egyptian) and 35.15% West
in P relatives when he found William Larkin African (Ibo). And the search goes on, Through DNA, I share
a
yn Sherman Payne listed as mulatto in a census similar DNA with 999 other people.
e

record.
Carole A. Hyman submitted the article, “My Experience
with DNA.”
WHAT OUR READERS ARE SAYING….
Great job on the AAHGS Journal. I know how much work it is
especially while maintaining a job and taking care of family.
Hats off to you!
Margo Lee Williams, past editor of AAHGS Journal
4
AAHGS News Check out the most recent news at the News blog: www.aahgsnews.wordpress.com! September/October 2015
WELCOME NEW AAHGS MEMBERS!
While collecting information
on certain inventors during my tenure
Adams, Carolyn, Danville, Virginia, Read, Gloria, Rochester, New York;
at the patent office, I came across
AAHGS—Danville-Pittsylvania Chapter; Rodriguez Brenna, Elena, Port Ludlow,
very unusual information, especially
Amaker, Mattie, Evanston, Illinois; Washington; Rosher, Jerelene, Daytona
on African American inventors and
Bell, Frederick, Berkeley, New Jersey; Beach, Florida, AAHGS—East Central
Blue, Maggie, Daytona Beach, Florida, Florida; Rowe, Yolanda, Millington, innovators.
AAHGS—East Central Florida; Boone, Tennessee; Salzberg, Cora Slade, But first, how does someone
Marisa, Greenbelt, Maryland; Bostick, Richmond, Virginia; Scurry, Margo, identify an African American patent
Ronda, Daytona Beach, Florida, Charlotte, North Carolina; Shelley, holder with no clue in official
AAHGS—East Central Florida; Bostick, Saundra, Robbins, Illinois; Singleton, records, that is, the patented
Linda, Daytona Beach, Florida, George, Beaufort, South Carolina; Stokes,
application file to help? I was
AAHGS—East Central Florida; Margaret, New York, New York,
charged by the then Deputy
Brimmer, Jeffrey C., Danville, Virginia, AAHGS—Jean Sampson Scott (NY);
Commissioner of Patents Lutrelle F.
AAHGS—Danville-Pittsylvania Chapter; Strickland, Karen, Columbia, South
Parker, an African American, to find
Brimmer, Jeff, Danville, Virginia, Carolina; Swett, Pamela, Goodlettsville,
more minority inventors with patents
AAHGS—Danville-Pittsylvania Chapter; Tennessee; Taylor, Michelle, Henrico,
Cobbs, Crystal, Danville, Virginia, Virginia; Thompson, Peg, Centennial, than the several he knew of. I could
AAHGS—Danville-Pittsylvania Chapter; Colorado; Todd, Michelle, Philadelphia, not imagine where to start, but I
Cowell, RoAnn Smith, Riverhead, New Pennsylvania; Totten, Amy, Danville, thought about it carefully, and with
York; Dock, Arthur J., North Virginia, AAHGS—Danville-Pittsylvania modesty I began by asking questions
Brentwood, Maryland, AAHGS—Prince Chapter; Walker, Victor, Randolph, first, of my colleagues, then of patent
George's County Maryland; Harrell, Massachusetts; Watson, Eartha, Daytona
attorneys (99% of whom were white)
Allen, Ormond Beach, Florida, Florida, Beach, Florida, AAHGS—East Central
and of any inventor followed by
AAHGS—East Central Florida; Florida; White, Elizabeth, Glenndale,
neighbors, friends and
Johnson, James, Philadelphia, Maryland, AAHGS—Prince George's
acquaintances, and certainly by
Pennsylvania; Link, Mauretta, County Maryland; Williamson, Karen
combing through a multitude of
Danville, Virginia, AAHGS—Danville- D., Yancey, North Carolina, AAHGS—
Pittsylvania Chapter; Lytle, Paula, Danville-Pittsylvania Chapter; Wilson, literature, to give you some idea. I
Warren, Michigan; Mosley, Kevin, West Janice L., Danville, Virginia, AAHGS— discovered that a few of these black
Mifflin, Pennsylvania; Munaco, Melissa Danville-Pittsylvania Chapter talents signed their patent document
Knights, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; with an “X” so they were illiterate!
Pierce, Ralph, Fort Washington, Submitted by Tamika Strong, AAHGS Still, others were incarcerated; their
Maryland; Pritchett, Acquanet National Membership Coordinator application for a patent traveled
Danielle, Danville, Virginia, AAHGS— ( [email protected] ), on through the criminal justice system,
Danville-Pittsylvania Chapter; Quiller, November 3, 2015. working its way through the federal
Evonne, Matthews, North Carolina;
system handling such matters. Then
a measure of these ebony inventors
(cont. from p. 1 THE BRILLAINCE) I did long quest to fruition.
were migrant workers, so you wonder
not realize that my early pursuit of
how they persevered or even found
collecting data on minority inventors Inventors
the financial resources necessary to
would blossom. My search deepened With that said, let me begin by
traverse the complicated patent
my awareness of their omnipresence. identifying inventors in general. The
process. Moreover, other holders of
As I advanced to the higher application for a patent grant [or for
patents were incapacitated. So one
position of a Primary Patent any other federal (or state) intellectual
wonders just how did they learn of
Examiner, I found that I had become property protection] does not require
the patent system? Where did they
an amateur archivist– someone who ethnic or sex identification. Inventors
find legal representation? Most
was very interested in conservation are not only men, women, children, but
important, where did they find the
and preservation of rich public they are old, young, of any religion,
capital to pursue their desire to obtain
records. After I transitioned from ethnic group, or background, or of any
a patent grant, and to hopefully
being a patent examiner to become a economic circumstance.
registered patent agent, I brought my realize some monetary (cont. on p. 7)
AFRO-AMERICAN HISTORICAL AND GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY, INC.
1977-2015
CELEBRATING OVER THIRTY-FIVE YEARS
5
Arkansas Maryland Pittsburgh Chapter
Arkansas Chapter Agnes Kane Callum Chapter Marlene Garrett Bransom, President
Michelle Hood, President Roland N. Mills, President P.O. Box 99893
P.O. Box 4294 P.O. Box 9366 Pittsburgh, PA 15233-4893
Little Rock, AR 72214 www.rootsweb.com/ Baltimore, MD 21228 [email protected]
~araahgs/ <baaghs.org> www.aahgspgh.org
<[email protected]>
California Central Maryland Chapter
Central California Chapter Alice F. Harris, President South Carolina
Denise Lancaster-Young, President 6352 Windharp Way Greenville-Upstate SC Chapter
s P.O. Box 9161 Columbia, MD 21045 Truman Humbert
r Fresno, CA 93790-9161 <cmgen.wordpress.com> 109 Theresa Drive
e www.aahgscc.googlepages.com <[email protected]> Greenville, SC 29605
t [email protected] [h] [phone]
p Montgomery County, Maryland Chapter [email protected]
a Delaware Patricia Hallman, President
h Delaware Chapter P.O. Box 10063 Tennessee
Jim Jones, President
C Rockville, MD 20859 Nashville Chapter
1305 Foulk Road Chajuan Fitzgerald, President
y Wilmington, DE 19803 Prince George’s County Chapter 3415 West End Avenue, #511
te p [email protected] JPa.One. BT.o Tx h4o4m25a2s, President Nbcahsahjvuialnle@, ThNot m37a2il0.c3o m
i Florida Ft. Washington, MD 20744-4252
c Central Florida Chapter <pgcm.aahgs.org> Memphis Chapter
o Kenneth Mitchell, President Alison Barnes, President
S P.O. Box 1347 Massachusetts P.O. Box 771731
l O~frllcafnadaoh,g F/ L 32802-1347 www.rootsweb.com/ NSteewlla E Mng. lPainedrc eC, hParpestiedre nt Mhttepm://pwhwis,w T.aNa h3g8s1m77em phis.org.
a 5 Old Planters Road [email protected]
c East Central Florida Chapter Beverly, MA 01915 https://www.facebook.com/AAHGSMemphisTN
i Ann Harrell, President <[email protected]>
g PO Box 11652
<www.aahgs-ne.org> Texas
o Daytona Beach, FL32114
Willie Lee Gay-H-Town Chapter
l [email protected] Minnesota Jesse Williams, President
a Minnesota Chapter 6670 Radley Drive
e Tampa, Florida Chapter Callie Flournoy-Riser Spring, TX 77329
n Robert L. Wimberly, President P.O. Box 6289 [email protected]
e 27418 Sugar Loaf Dr. Minneapolis, MN 55406 <[email protected]>
G Wesley Chapel, FL 33544-8639 [email protected]
www.aahgstampa.homestead.com
Utah
<[email protected]>
d New Jersey Utah Chapter
n Georgia NMeuwri eJle Drs.e Ryo Cbheratps,t ePrr e sident C11h9a3rl oStiteen Sntaa Wrksa,y P resident
a Metro Atlanta Chapter P.O. Box 83 Taylorsville, UT 84123
l Emma Davis Hamilton, President Middletown, NJ 07748 [email protected]
a P.O. Box 54131 <www.aahgsnj.org>
c Atlanta, GA 30308-9998 [email protected] Virginia
www.aahgsatl.org
i Burke, Brown and Steppe Chapter
r <[email protected]> New York Caruso Brown, President
o Jean Sampson Scott Greater New York P.O. Box 7492
ts Illinois Chapter Charlottesville, VA 22906-7492
i Little Egypt Chapter Sharon Wilkins, President <avenue.org/AAGG>
H Lori Crenshaw Bryant, President P.O. Box 1050
308 Birchlane Drive
New York, NY 10116-1050 Central Virginia Chapter
n Carbondale, IL 62901 < www.aahgsny.org> Shelley Murphy, President
[email protected] 265 Turkeysag Trail, Suite 102, #140
a North Carolina Palmyra, VA 22963
c Northern Illinois Southern Wisconsin NC/Piedmont Triad Chapter <sites.google.com/site/centr>
ir Chapter (NISW) Lamar E. DeLoatch, President [email protected]
Joyce Higgins, President
e P.O. Box 36254
P.O. Box 1732
m Greensboro, NC 27416 Greater Richmond Chapter
Rockford, IL 61110-1732 <www.ncaahgs.org > Marilyn Campbell, President
A www.aahgsnisw.org> [email protected] PO Box 27833, Richmond, VA 23261
[email protected] [email protected]
- NC Triangle www.richmondva.com
o Patricia Liddell Researchers Chapter Wanda Cox-Bailey, President
r Carrie McMorris, President
P.O. Box 907 Hampton Roads Chapter
fA P.O. Box 438652 Durham, NC 27702 Selma Steward, President
Chicago, IL 60643 [email protected] P.O. Box 2448
[email protected] Newport News, VA 23609-2448
Pennsylvania [email protected]
Kansas Philadelphia Family Quest Society Chapter
Kansas Chapter Laura Booth, President Washington, D.C.
Sherri Camp, President
P.O. Box 34620 James Dent Walker Chapter
2601 SW Westport Dr. Philadelphia, PA 19101 Sybil Templeman Williams, President
Topeka, KS 66614 <[email protected]> P.O. Box 60632
<[email protected]> Washington, D.C. 20039-0632
[email protected]
Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc. www.aahgs.org Founded 1977 September/October 2015
(cont. from p. 5 THE BRILLAINCE) have been spared since the little about the African American
reward? development of blood plasma had Dr. people responsible for our safety,
Given that all inventors live at Charles R. Drew not conceived the health, convenience, and security.
some locale, it is reasonable to assume method of banking blood? How many The saga begins at the
that their immediate environs, or pairs of shoes would each of us beginning of mankind in the heart of
circumstances contributed to their purchase if it were not for a special African with ancient innovations and
creative genius. On occasion, though, shoe lasting machine, which continues over eons to the present
neighborhoods, communities and the revolutionized the entire shoe and boot day of the 21st Century. During
like, shifted, were redesigned, or were industry if immigrant Jan Matzeliger slavery, a number of free African
destroyed, as we experience change, in were not successful at patenting his Americans conceived or invented and
the name of progress. This is life. To automatic shoe lasting mechanisms? developed industrial artifacts,
know the history of America is to be How would our health be if Dr. Percy mechanical tools, and other
aware of the cultural and social L. Julian did not develop and patent implements, and a very few of them
changes brought about by the result of synthetic cortisone to provide relief for patented their inventions and were
inspirations of African Americans. millions of individuals suffering from even recognized for their ingenuity.
Their mental prowess is legendary. rheumatoid arthritis? Or how would The earliest African American patent
How would the ordinary man we enjoy the fruits of the southern cash holder was a free person of color
or woman thrive today without the crops if Dr. George W. Carver had not Thomas L. Jennings (1791-1859), an
long haul refrigeration of foods and conceived and patented the multiple abolitionist of New York City who
commerce as we know it day if it were uses of the peanut? And how patented a dry-cleaning process in
not for the brilliance of Frederick M. convenient would our lives be today 1821. Next creative genius was
Jones who patented forty concepts in without the magnetic core memory Henry Blair of Montgomery County,
refrigeration, thus revolutionizing the device for computer technology if it Maryland, who received two patents,
industry? How far would the railroad were not for the exceptional creative one in 1834 and the second in 1836
industry have come without the genius of African American for seed planters. Joseph Hawkins
automatic lubricator if it were not for inventors? All these inventions have came afterwards in 1845 with his
the skill of Elijah McCoy who become such an integral part of the gridiron followed by New Orleans
patented fifty-seven inventions on the American way of life that their origins native Norbert Rilllieux in1845 who
lubricator changing the machinery are taken for granted. We know very revolutionized the sugar (cont. on p. 8)
industry forever? How many lives
(cont. from p. 1 USING DEATH CERTIFICATE INFORMANTS) Please feel free to contact me. I am very anxious to get to
experience, when you identify how you are possibly related know you. I have enclosed a self-addressed, stamped
and add personal information such as a nickname, name of envelope for you in hopes that you will want to contact me.
school attended, etc. (if you have it), it peaks the curiosity
level and the individuals are interested in contacting you. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Keep track of the potential family members you have
contacted. If you do not obtain a response, this may be Best,
attributed to death, a new homeowner, or the individual may Name
not want to be in contact with you. Address
Below is a helpful template for sending a letter of Home phone
introduction: Cell phone
E-mail
Dear (FirstName LastName) and Family,
I hope that my letter finds you and your family well. I am The information I obtained has given me insight
Firstname LastName and I am looking for family members. into the character of the decedent, the relationship between
My father is FirstName LastName. His great grandfather is the informant and decedent as well as enabled me to learn
FirstName LastName whose nickname was “Nickname.” My about other family members.
research finds that FirstName LastName is the first cousin to
your great grandfather FirstName LastName.
Brenda Kinsler ([email protected]) is a member of the

AAHGS —James Dent Walker Chapter, Washington,
I would very much like to be in contact with you and other
DC. Submitted November 27, 2015.
family members in order to learn more about the LastName
family.
7
Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc. www.aahgs.org Founded 1977 September/October 2015
BOOK NOTES BY DEBRA NEWMAN HAM
AMERICA’S FORGOTTEN CASTE: discusses how blacks, despite eyewitness to the violence, reported that
FREE BLACKS IN ANTEBELLUM discriminatory laws, became “preachers, nine whites and twenty-one blacks were
VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA teachers, missionaries, contractors, killed and several hundred injured.
By Rodney Barfield. 2013, bibliography, artisans, boat captains and wealthy Blocks of black-owned property were
footnotes, index and illustrations. entrepreneurs.” He has located detailed burned by whites. Damages amounted to
historical and biographical information hundreds of thousands. The cause: a
Most people, with scant including drawings and photographs about black man was accused of assaulting a
knowledge of African individual free people of color as well as white woman. On the seventy-fifth
American history, see black churches and civic organizations. anniversary of the riot, the Oklahoma
antebellum blacks as legislature established a commission to
either enslaved or free. FIRES OF revisit causes and effects of the “race
However, from the GREENWOOD: A war.” Since that time a much higher
earliest history of this NOVEL BASED ON death report claims that over three
nation there were blacks THE TULSA RIOT hundred blacks were killed. This
who were not enslaved. OF 1921 historical novel blends fact and fiction as
Some Africans came to this country as By Frederick they relate the blaze of emotions—love,
indentured servants and had never known Greenwood. San hate and jealousy--that sparked this
slavery but others were freed by their Antonio, Texas: destruction of Tulsa’s “black Wall
owners as a result of religious scruples, Prosperity Street.”
diligent work, good conduct, familial Publications, 2014.
connections or commendable service. Debra Newman Ham, Ph.D., is
Methods of manumission included court Professor of History, Morgan State
actions, instructions in owners’ wills, self- Renowned historian Dr. John Hope University. She is “Book Notes”
purchase, governmental decrees or rewards Franklin’s celebrated history From Slavery Editor and a founding member of
for military service. In this carefully To Freedom (8th edition) relates only a few the Afro-American Historical and
documented history Barfield, who has details of the 1821 Tulsa, Oklahoma , race Genealogical Society. Submitted
studied regional history for over forty years, riot. Franklin, whose father was an October 30, 2015.
(cont. from p. 5 THE BRILLAINCE) and disciplines of endeavor to the piano technician Warren Shadd is
industry with his patented vacuum pan leading edge of technology. exhibited in his acoustic piano, now
technology. The very early black holder These ebony talents have seen in use in the popular TV show
of patents, prior to the end of slavery, shaped and are still shaping our Empire. Entrepreneur Alfred Prather
had to be, not chattel, but of a free legal evolving economy and our daily lives, invented a special aircraft and Dannie
status–a citizen who could make a making rapid technological advances. Byers holds a patent for a manual
contract and who could take legal Dr. Marc Hannah and six other Silicon dozer. This brief writing represents a
action against infringers of his coveted Graphics company founders turned few ordinary black people with
grant. The list continues to increase around the entire computer industry, brilliant minds.
with blacks who turned around great revolutionizing it with a dynamic I have documented in my
industries, reaching enormous length in workstation having enormous storage three books, the fullest picture yet of
the 21st century, and contains the capability and mainframe computing African American inventiveness,
fantastic talent of African American power. Former NASA scientist Dr. “showing the toughness of human
women, some of whom developed the Valerie Thomas invented an creative spirit in the face of a hostile
most progressive of concepts in extraordinary illusion transmitter. The environment” to quote Art Molella,
technology, engineering, and medicine. 1945 “Torpedo Discharge Means” of the Director of the Lemelson Center at
Ideas of brilliance range from the housewife Henrietta Bradberry is the Smithsonian Institution. These
ordinary to the profound, from all fields phenomenal. The creative genius of (Cont. on p. 20)
AFRO-AMERICAN HISTORICAL AND GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY, INC.
1977-2015
CELEBRATING OVER THIRTY YEARS
8
AAHGS News Check out the most recent news at the News blog: www.aahgsnews.wordpress.com! September/October 2015
RESOURCES FOR RESEARCH IN GEORGIA
African American Genealogy Research In Georgia Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Historic
Preservation Division: Scroll down to list of Georgia's African
Caution: The websites listed below (except ancestry.com) are free,
American resources. http://georgiashpo.org/historic/
but access to some links within them may requirement payment.
african_american#people
Useful Websites
Lowcountry Africana, African American Genealogy and History Georgia Archives, African American Resources: Lists categories
in SC, GA, and FL: Focuses on the rice-growing areas of SC, GA, & of records available at the Georgia Archives for researching African
extreme northeastern FL; contains link to records for GA births, American genealogy. http://georgiaarchives.org/research/
marriages, deaths, historic newspapers, funeral programs, Freedmen's african_american_resources
Bureau, and more. http://www.lowcountryafricana.com/
Books
Genealogy Center, African American Gateway, Georgia: Contains Slave Importation Affidavit Registers for Nine Georgia
links for slave schedules, cemetery, estate, will, and ex-slave Counties, 1818-1847 by Dawn Watson
marriage records. http://www.genealogycenter.info/
africanamerican/results_afram.php?subject=GA Freedom: An African-American History of Georgia, 1733-1865
by Michael Thurman
Gwinett County GAGenWeb, African American Genealogy
Resources http://www.oldplaces.org/gwinnettga/AfricanAm.html General Georgia Genealogy Resources
Georgia Archives: http://www.georgiaarchives.org/ Choose
AAHGS Metro Atlanta Chapter: Explore the Projects and Research "Research" tab, then "Search our Collections"; scroll down to
links. http://aahgsatl.org/ "Virtual Library" and "The Digital Library of Georgia" to search
their records.
Access Genealogy, Georgia African American Genealogy: 5800 Jonesboro Road, Morrow, Georgia 30260 Phone: (678) 364
Includes cemetery, court, church, marriage, & slaveholder records. -3700
http://www.accessgenealogy.com/black-genealogy/georgia-african-
american-genealogy.htm Georgia Genealogy: Links on the right lead to county specific
resources and a wide variety of other genealogical information
Access Genealogy, Georgia African American Census Records http://www.georgiagenealogy.org/
http://www.accessgenealogy.com/census/georgia-african-american-
census-records.htm All States
Search for ancestors and build your family tree at ancestry.com
Christine's Genealogy Website, Free African-American Families (payment required) and familysearch.org
in Georgia in 1830 http://www.ccharity.com/contents/various- Search for ancestors on Heritage Quest through a link on your
census-transcriptions/free-african-american-families-georgia-1830/ local library's website. http://lib.de.us (for DE)

(cont. from p. 4 WORTH CHECKING OUT) Over the years I have
asked my cousins about Grandfather Jessie Hall. Although Cousin Compiled for July 28, 2015 AAHGS—DE meeting by Rosalyn
Richard is on my paternal grandmother’s side, as a child he lived in Green, Research Consultant. This is her fourth installment in
the same community, where my paternal grandfather Jessie Hall did. an ongoing series. Rosalyn ([email protected])
From Cousin Richard I was told: welcomes feedback from those using her research information
and techniques. Submitted July 22, 2015.
When I was 7 or 8 there was a family of Halls who lived
near us. And Jessie Hall would visit there. May Fronie
WORTH NOTING
the lady he lived with in Fla. her family lived nearby. The
Hall Family [included] ISRAEL HALL, old, Mary HALL,
old , Mary HALL, older than my sister Alice and I,
PETER, PAUL HALL about your father’s age. Nel HALL
[was about] my mother’s age; she had twins girl and boy
the same year John D. Jackson was born.

I had Grandfather Jessie’s death record. It contained his birthdate,
but no place of birth. No names were listed for his parents. I
combined the information about his birthdate with his social
security number, acquired from the Social Security Death Index to
request a Social Security Application. It cost $27.00. (cont. on p. 20)
99
Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc. www.aahgs.org Founded 1977

CHAPTER NEWS
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