African American History
The Genealogy and Local History Department provides research-level resources including one of the nation’s largest and oldest genealogy collections.
Our Collection
The Library houses an extensive collection of African American history material such as southern plantation records on microfilm, the history of African American Civil War regiments, and U.S. Civil Rights Commission reports.
Highlights include: the complete U.S. federal census (1790–1930), passenger lists, city directories, military histories, maps, church and cemetery records, and enslaved person and freedmen records.
Services
Genealogy and Local History Department staff offers specialized reference assistance to all customers, from children and beginning genealogists to professional researchers and scholars. The department presents monthly tours, co-sponsors programs with the Hamilton County Genealogical Society, and will develop programs tailored to the needs of any size class or group, including family reunions. To schedule a program, contact the department in person, by phone, or email.
Related Library Resources
- Brochure: African American Family History Resources at the Library (PDF)
- Brochure: African American History Research Collection (PDF)
- Podcast: Getting Started in African American Genealogy with Thomas Jordan, opens a new window (mp3)
