It’s a refrain heard time and time again with African Americans researching their ancestry, the challenges of getting past the 1870 “brick wall.”

Now there is a huge breakthrough that is unlocking information and helping families find one another, thanks to research by Reckoning, Inc.

Reckoning, Inc., in partnership with the Frazier History Museum, will share that research and how it ties back to ledger books created to keep track of African American men who joined the US Colored Troops (USCT) from Kentucky in the Civil War.

You’ll hear how a note passed at the foot of the L & N Railroad bridge in New Haven, Kentucky, to a Union Captain on December 30, 1862, opened the floodgates to information impacting thousands of families.

And you’ll learn about Louisa Taylor (the woman pictured), how this research has led to life-changing discoveries, and how it may be able to help your family.

Doors Open: 5:30 pm

Gallery Access: 5:30–6 pm

Program: 6–7 pm

MODERATOR:
Rachel Platt, Frazier History Museum

GUESTS:
Dan Gediman, Executive Director, Reckoning, Inc.
Abby Posey, Research Director, Reckoning, Inc.
Jackie Burrell, Volunteer Genealogical Researcher, Reckoning, Inc.
Charles Lemons, Military Historian

Thanks to the Gheens Foundation for supporting this program.

Attention Educators: A 3-hour teacher professional development that incorporates this program and is titled “They Fought for Freedom” is available on the same date. Educators who would like to learn more about this opportunity, click here. (please note: reservations are required and teachers attending the PD will sign up on the education page and do not need to sign up using the link below)