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Beyond 1870: Finding Our African American Ancestors

Beyond the Brick Wall

2026-05-21 18:30:00 2026-05-21 19:30:00 America/Indiana/Indianapolis Beyond 1870: Finding Our African American Ancestors Virtual Genealogy -

Thursday, May 21
6:30pm - 7:30pm

Add to Calendar 2026-05-21 18:30:00 2026-05-21 19:30:00 America/Indiana/Indianapolis Beyond 1870: Finding Our African American Ancestors Join us for a FREE virtual program on May 21 at 6:30 p.m. ET! Virtual Genealogy -

Join us for a FREE virtual program on May 21 at 6:30 p.m. ET!

Think there are no records before 1870? Think again.

Our ancestors, both free and enslaved, left traces in the historical records. Too many researchers believe it is impossible to find them before the 1870 Federal census but the records exist. In this presentation, we'll explore the documents that tell their stories, including manumissions, deeds, wills, pre-1870 census records, and Civil War pension files. You will walk away with practical strategies to uncover stories of your ancestors' lives before 1870.

Mica L. Anders is a professional genealogist specializing in African American genealogy with over 25 years of experience. As the first-ever history fellow at the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum, she conducted pioneering research on early African American communities, earning the Minnesota Genealogical Society's Pioneer Award for her work. 
With expertise in navigating pre-1870 research challenges, Mica combines rigorous historical research with storytelling to bring ancestors' stories to life. She also collaborates with museums to highlight underrepresented narratives and is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists.

AGE GROUP: | Adults | 9th-12th Grade | 7th-8th Grade |

EVENT TYPE: | Family History & Genealogy |

TAGS: | Genealogy |

Virtual Genealogy


Hours
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Mon, May 25 Closed
(All ACPL Locations will be CLOSED for the Holiday.)
Tue, May 26 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Wed, May 27 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Thu, May 28 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Fri, May 29 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, May 30 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sun, May 31 12:00PM to 5:00PM

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